Demand for setting up of National Dalkhai Academy in Padmapur

Bargarh MP Pradeep Purohit has raised his voice in Parliament for the preservation and promotion of the famous 'Dalkhai' dance of Western Odisha. He has demanded the establishment of a National Dalkhai Academy in Padmapur, Bodasambar. He said that this will enable proper research and training of this folk art. Keeping in mind the rich culture and history of Dalkhai dance, he has requested the Central Government to give it the status of a classical dance. He has proposed in Parliament to give national recognition to the artists of Western Odisha and provide them financial assistance. Recently, a video of him dancing at the Dalkhai festival in Bodasambar was widely discussed on social media, which has further strengthened this demand.