Five US-based Odia IT professionals recently staged Dasakathia—a traditional Odisha folk theatre form known for its ballad-style storytelling—in Dallas. The 20-minute performance depicted the journey of an Odia couple who migrate to the US and, lured by its glitz and glamour, gradually lose touch with their roots.

“In the story, the couple is rescued during tough times by fellow Odias, leading them to realise the importance of promoting Odia culture and heritage in a faraway land for long-term success,” said Bhabani Buxi from Georgia, who played the role of the gayaka. The cast also included palia Satyaban Mahapatra (Georgia) and role players Mousumi Swain (Tennessee), Nirakar Jena (Florida), and Satyabrata Mohanty (California). The story and dialogues were written by Buxi.

While older generations are well-acquainted with Dasakathia, the performers aimed to introduce younger audiences to the art form. Traditionally performed by just two artists—the gayaka and palia—this rendition included three additional actors to make the performance more inclusive and collaborative across US states. The gayaka and palia rehearsed together in person for three weeks, while the others joined online. A final in-person run-through was held on the day of the show to ensure smooth coordination.

Costumes and instruments were sourced from chitralayas in Bhubaneswar during a visit to Odisha, with spouses assisting in make-up. Drawing on their childhood memories of Dasakathia performances, the group also studied numerous videos to perfect the instrument playing, delivery style, voice modulation, and costume details.