‘Thenga Vahini’ to check 'vulgarity' in Bhubaneswar Khandagiri Jatra shows!

As Bhubaneswar gears up for the lively Khandagiri Jatra shows, which is to begin tomorrow, a ‘Thenga Vahini’ (group of local youths) vowed on Monday to reinforce measures to uphold cultural values and prevent any form of indecency, including vulgar dance.

Recent advisories have led to heightened preparations to maintain the event’s sanctity.

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According to sources, led by BJP MLA Babu Singh, a cohort of around 100 local youths have pledged to monitor the popular festival, following a ceremonial ‘Thenga Puja’ (worship of batons) to symbolise their commitment in this regard. The youths have vowed to prevent any inappropriate performances from taking place during the Jatra shows.

“Vulgarity has no place in Jagannath culture. This (Khandagiri) is a sacred place; where not only cultural but also spiritual programmes are organised. Hence, we had earlier announced and vowed not to allow vulgarity of any type during the Jatra. The local administration and State government are appealing to curb such activities,” BJP MLA Singh stated.

“As a few dance artistes had declared in some of the news channels to perform obscene dances, we conducted ‘Thenga Puja’ today. Hundreds of youths from nearby localities of Khandagiri have united to protect our culture and tradition,” the local MLA added.

Besides, the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) Commissioner Rajesh Prabhakar Patil has issued a strict warning, advising the Jatra organisers to conform to the cultural standards. “We expect the festival to be conducted within the norms of tradition and dignity,” he affirmed, underscoring a need for a respectful and orderly celebration.

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Efforts are also underway to improve the festival experience, including better lighting and increased water facilities. Restoration work on the historic Panchakunda is being prioritised, and health workers will be stationed every 100 metres to ensure public health.

The civic body Commissioner appealed to attendees to maintain cleanliness at the festival, emphasising the shared responsibility for preserving the tradition and order.