Shock in Bengaluru: Odia jatra artists beaten up mercilessly, detained over payment dispute

Several Odia Jatra artists and staff members were allegedly assaulted and unlawfully detained in Bengaluru, where they had been to perform, triggering outrage among the Odia cultural fraternity. The incident reportedly involved members of the well-known opera party ‘Surya Mandir’, who had travelled to the Karnataka capital to stage a Jatra performance on Tuesday.

According to preliminary information, the Surya Mandir Jatra troupe had been invited to Bengaluru for a scheduled cultural programme. However, tensions reportedly escalated over a dispute related to payment of performance fees. What initially began as a verbal argument soon turned violent, with allegations that the artists and crew were attacked while they were still on stage.

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Sources claim that unidentified persons assaulted the performers and staff members in full public view, creating panic at the venue. It has further been alleged that some members of the troupe were detained and prevented from leaving the premises, raising serious concerns over their safety and dignity.

The incident has sparked widespread condemnation from Odia cultural organisations and artists, who have demanded immediate intervention from the authorities. They have also called for strict action against those responsible and adequate compensation for the victims.

Though no official statement has yet been issued by the local administration, efforts are reportedly underway to gather details of the incident.