Paika dance is one of the most popular dance forms in the state of Odisha. This dance form is usually performed by the Paikas of Oriya army. The main aim of practicing this form of dance is to develop the inner courage of the people and also to enhance their physical excitement. This dance is carried throughout the wide area of tribal belt of Mayurbhanj district of the state. According to the local people of Odisha, it is believe that this form of dance was practiced by the people known as Paikas in anciant times. paikas were the group of peoples who served their lives for the safety of the realm. Paika is also performed by the people in some of the regions of Bihar. Paika dance is performed in a group. Men appear as warrior for the performance, in their colourful turbans and tight dhotis and stand in two rows. During the performance, men Hold the wooden swords and shields in their hands. Then, they come forward slowly towards each other, but the tempo of the performance increases suddenly. This shows the starting of the war and with it they whirl their swords and attack each other. After this, The dance reaches its higher point with the fast beats produced by ′Mandal′. Various groups of the people performed this form of dance on the occation of Dussehra festival, with great enthusiassm in the state of Odisha.
