Abstract

Pālā has attained a special position as an indigenous art of Odisha. A cultural folk ballad genre of Odisha that incorporates elements of Sanskrit and Odia literature is known as Pālā. It has achieved immense popularity for bringing progress to Odisha in the fields of religion, culture, literature, and social values. This research paper delves into the rich cultural heritage of Odisha, focusing on the Indigenous Ballard form that has been an integral part of the state's cultural fabric. Ballads in Odisha have served as a dynamic medium for storytelling, preserving historical events, and expressing the socio-cultural ethos of the region. This study aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the Indigenous Ballard form, with a particular emphasis on its song texts. The research employs a multi- faceted approach, combining ethnographic methods, linguistic analysis, and literary criticism to unravel the layers of meaning embedded in the song text. The study also investigates the role of oral tradition in the transmission of these ballads across generations and its impact on language preservation. Furthermore, the research explores the intersection of the Indigenous Ballard form with broader issues such as identity, community dynamics, and cultural resilience.