Khandagiri Jatra row: Actor Kanha apologises to Kinnar community

A controversy had recently erupted at the Khandagiri Mela during a Jatra performance after an allegedly offensive dialogue referring to the Kinnar community (third-genders) was used in a play. Following strong objections from members of the community, Jatra actor Kanha issued an apology on Friday for his ‘derogatory’ remarks.

Also Read: ‘Unacceptable’: Transgender rights activist slams ‘objectionable’ jatra dialogue at Khandagiri mela

After receiving a warning from the Kinnar community, Kanha personally apologised over the phone to the community leader and rights activist Meera Parida. The community had earlier demanded a public apology and warned that the actor would not be allowed to perform on the Khandagiri stage if the issue was not addressed.

The controversy had stemmed from the use of objectionable words referring to Kinnars in a scene from the play ‘Januar’. The dialogue was delivered by actor Kanha and was strongly opposed later by Meera Parida, who termed it disrespectful and hurtful.

“I wish to state that since India’s independence, no jatra artiste ever used the stage to advocate the rights of transgender persons. Writers who use acting as a shield to demean transgender people should understand that when acting affects the lives and livelihoods of a community, it is no longer just acting,” Meera had expressed.

The Odia play, written by playwright Deepak Jena and directed by Dilip Rout, had come under severe criticism after allegations that derogatory language was used in one of its scenes. Following protests, the theatre group announced that the disputed words would be removed from the script.

The production team also assured that no language harming the dignity or respect of any community would be used in future performances.

“I swear in the name of Lord Jagannath and you, my dear elder sister (Meera Parida), that I am not at fault. I respect you always. We grow with your blessings. I even swear in the name of my religion, my profession, and my two children as well,” the Jatra artiste said.