Jatra owner-artiste face off: Conflict escalates in Odisha’s theatre industry

The ongoing dispute in the Odia Jatra community continues to intensify, as tensions between the troupe owners and actors’ unions show no sign of abating. This discord was highlighted on Thursday during a televised discussion on OTV.

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The live discussion had featured Jatra Party Owners’ Association vice-president Pabitra Patra and the actors’ outfit advisor Bapi Panda.

Instead of reaching an agreement, both groups remained entrenched in their respective positions. Bapi Panda reiterated a cautionary stance previously established, threatening potential strikes by the actors’ union if their grievances are overlooked.

Allegations and counter-allegations

In his address, Bapi Panda criticised Pabitra Patra’s comments, deeming them harmful and indicative of insecurity among the actors. He stated, “We seek coordination, but you resort to abuses.” Panda emphasised dissatisfaction with Patra's language, noting its detrimental impact on the performing artistes’ morale.

Countering these claims of advisor Panda, Pabitra Patra suggested that if actors experience feelings of insecurity, they should reconsider their associations with current Jatra troupes. He underscored the necessity for actors to enhance their negotiation skills when dealing with Jatra party owners.

“Had I asked you to form a Jatra party? Did you form the party with my suggestions? ‘Kou Khusire’ (meaning, what was the area of interest), you formed the Jatra party? Your party actors are not getting their remuneration. You are not able to stage Jatra on the first night. Your employees have not yet received their dues of Rs 21 lakh,” Bapi Panda said.

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Reacting to this, Pabitra Patra stated, “You should leave the party where you are not safe. If artistes are not feeling secure in a Jatra party, why the artistes are not leaving them? Learn to behave properly. You should respect yourself and must respect others too.”