In Sabda Swara Nata, the presentation of plays are in regular common Jatra style with central stage and spectators around. The themes are drawn from mythology, mainly from Krishna's life. The plays are highlighted by interludes of special dance numbers which are absolute classical dances of the Tandava variety, known as Sabda Nrutya.
Sabda Nrutya claims 8 distinct Tandava dances such as Siva, Durga, Kali, Ganesh, Ananda Bhairaba Vinayaka, Rudra andNarada. Each Tandavahas two 'Swaras' which in turn have four Pallavi dances each.
This form is located at Kumbhari village, off Barapali, Sambalpur and the institution which keeps it living was established in 1850 by one Bhajamana Das who hailed from Sidhamunda, Kantilo of Puri.