Indus Valley Times

By Swagatika Bhutia

Finally, the Odisha government has swung into action to check vulgar dance on jatra pendals. It has directed concerned officials to initiate necessary steps to ban vulgar, double meaning songs and dance performances on Jatra and Melody stages in the state.

In a letter to all district Collectors and Superintendent of Police (SPs), the Odia Language Literature and Culture Department has directed to take immediate action to restrict vulgar dance and double meaning dialogues on Jatra stage in the name of entertainment.

“Jatra and melody are the means of entertainment. But excessive display of vulgar dance and double meaning dialogues during performance has made it difficult to enjoy the shows with family members,” the letter read.

“The permission letter to Jatra parties should have a clear mention that there should be no nude dance and double meaning dialogues during the performance. In case of violation, necessary action will be taken against them,” the letter read.

“I welcome the move by the Odia Language Literature and Culture Department. But despite ban, one artiste performed item dances and play during Khandagiri Mela. I too perform item dance but I always mind my moves,” said Rani Priyadarshini, an artiste.

“I believe the decision by the Odia Language Literature and Culture Department will be welcomed by all. Those who will violate the order, action can be initiated against them under Sec 133 of the CrPc,” said Bapi Panda, secretary of Jatra Artist Association.