Pala is a cultural folk ballad form of Odisha, mix of Sanskrit & Odia literature. It is a group of five or six persons, who performs this art. The group consists of a 'Gayaka' (Main singer), a 'Bayaka' (drummer) and others are Palia (Chorus). The Gayaka has a 'Chamara' (fly whisker) in his hand, which he wieds with extreme flourish and a pair of cymbals in his right hand. He narrates episodes from puranic texts, punctuated with explanations. The chorus dance in very small with rhythmical steps along with Gayaka.

Origin

Pala is found in Sarala Das's ''Mahabharata''. It might have come to light when the Odia and Bengali culture blended into unity during Chaitanya's visit to Orissa in 1510 CE.

Performance

The Pala generally performed on the occasion of ''Ekousia'' (21st day of the birth of a child, when the naming ceremony is observed) or 'Satyanarayana puja'. There are two forms of Pala, both are associated with the worship of lord Satyanarayana. They are 'Baithaki' (sitting) and 'Thia' (standing). Sometimes, especially on the occasion of ritual festivals, competition of two or more groups are also arranged in which all the groups try their best to prove their moments. Thus, the singing gets elongated for several nights. As Pala in odisha dwells on ancient literature, a Pala singer is required to be a man well versed in Sanskrit and in odiya literature. The Pala singers commands the language of Sanskrit in at sharp and clear voice.

References

{{reflist Odia culture Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity Cultural heritage of India Folk dances of Odisha

Origin

Performance

See also

References