'Boycott' trend grows as controversy clouds Odisha's jatra scene

A growing trend of 'boycotts' is causing ripples throughout the jatra community in Odisha. Eminent jatra artistes such as Nari Panda, Pratap Mohanty, and Bapi Panda reportedly find themselves at the centre of a scrutiny storm from the association of jatra party owners.

Despite the looming threat of disciplinary actions, Bapi Panda has voiced his support for necessary measures, although he has warned that the outcome might spell trouble for the jatra industry. Recent allegations by a jatra party owner have unveiled financial irregularities involving a labour manager, which threatens to shake the foundation of the jatra party community.

Unresolved disputes may have adverse impact

Industry experts warn that unresolved disputes may severely impact the viability of the jatra sector. Critics are quick to draw parallels with a proverbial narrative, 'open your mouth and the head will roll', capturing the precarious position faced by Bapi Panda—an ordeal previously experienced by Nari Panda and Pratap Mohanty. 

Must Read: Rift between jatra artistes and owners widens in Odisha

The debate has reportedly thickened over Bapi's involvement in the boycott movement, keeping the jatra circles intensely speculative.

Allegations & Consequences

As per reports, Bapi Panda has taken a critical stance against actions affecting fellow artistes, expressing his reluctance to perform amidst perceived injustices. His assertion warns of potential jatra party closures in the state if fairness is not upheld, a statement that has placed him at odds with jatra party proprietors. Jatra party owners are reportedly preparing for decisive action regarding these explosive allegations.

"Jatra artistes like Pratap Mohanty, Namita, and Nari Panda have to face torture from Tulasi Gananatya owner Nandu Dhal for opening their mouths. I am no exception, and I am ready to face any kind of consequence," said Bapi Panda.

How will they make their living?

Jatra circles are reportedly rife with discussions of harsh treatment within prominent drama companies. Hemendra Barik, a jatra party owner, has leveled serious charges regarding the wrongful withholding of Rs 20 to 21 lakh by a notable jatra party owner. This revelation highlights possible financial gains being illicitly exploited by certain owners, setting the stage for a potentially damaging conflict.

"A jatra owner has withheld Rs 20 to 21 lakh from a labour manager. Many jatra artistes are also not getting payment. How will they make their living?" asked Hemendra Barik, a jatra party owner.

"Jatra owners and jatra artistes are dependent on each other. The controversy should be amicably resolved for the interest of both parties," said Kartikeswar Nayak, a jatra organiser.

As these disputes unravel, opposing parties—jatra party owners versus artists and proprietors versus workforce—are locked in a public standoff. The lack of dialogue and fervent egos sustain the impasse, forecasting detrimental consequences for the livelihoods of those involved in Odisha's jatra industry.

Efforts to obtain comments from the involved parties and associations have so far been unsuccessful. Odisha's jatra scene remains overshadowed by unresolved allegations and ongoing tensions.

"Jatra owners and artistes are dependent on each other. Nobody will gain anything if damage is inflicted to the jatra industry in Odisha," said jatra critic Bharat Chandra Barik.