Ethnic Dances and Music of Western Orissa: An Anthropological Study Towards Promoting Eco-Tourism

Orissa has tremendous potentiality for eco-tourism. Irrespective of its regional disparity and social inequity, eco-tourism can be attributed as one of the most important factors. The state could be able to tap the employment opportunities through various tourism resources and avenues. Author identified and documented 52 folk troupes, their dance forms, music, costumes along with the musical instruments. Besides, arts and crafts have also been included along with the socio-economic status of ethnic artists and the artisans. The book also conveys that how the regional culture; folk dance, music, arts, crafts, cuisines, scenic places etc. could be integrated as an avenue for promoting eco-tourism while simultaneously facilitating economic sustainability of the local population. Based on the heuristic suggestions, the author has also proposed eco-tourism centres and tourist villages in the region. So that, in the long run it will have a positive impact on the overall growth of the state. Some policy recommendations have been also given to benefit all stakeholders.