Actors 'kill pig, consume body parts' on stage during cultural performance in Ganjam, spark outrage

In a bizarre incident, some performers allegedly killed a pig by bitting it during a theatrical rendition of the epic ‘Ramayana’ in Ganjam district, leaving the audience in disbelief. However, the matter came to the fore on Sunday after a video of the incident went viral on social media.

The event occurred on the night of November 24 in Ralaba village under Hinjili block and was part of a traditional enactment of the Ramayana.

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According to sources, the actors portraying the characters of demons enacted the shocking act of eating a live pig as part of their performance, aiming to depict the malevolence of their characters. This bold portrayal, however, sparked a debate over ethical standards and animal cruelty in cultural performances.

Despite the disturbing nature of the display, hundreds of spectators watched without intervention, raising concerns about communal apathy and ethical boundaries when it comes to cultural traditions. While the audience was visibly taken aback by the scene, none attempted to intervene or halt the act.

Even to the extent, a few reptiles were also subjected to cruelty during the enactment.

“Restrictions should be imposed on posting such videos on social media. Persons who post, and share these videos are equally responsible. This must be strongly condemned,” former PCCF (Wildlife) Suresh Mohanty said when contacted over the phone.

“Presently, there are restrictions only relating to wildlife. But, being cruel to any animal is an inhuman act,” the former PCCF expressed.

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“This is an extremely inhuman, barbaric, and condemnable incident, which goes against the societal standards. While performing an auspicious play like the Ramayana on stage, some actors ate a pig and I have no words to condemn the brutal act,” said noted cultural expert Pandit Birendra Tripathy. 

“The government should impose restrictions on these kind of activities. Animal lovers should also come forward and protest the act,” Tripathy further said.

Perhaps in a competitive environment, the actors may have wanted to make the scene more impressive and thereby garner audience appreciation, the cultural expert added.