‘Akhada Khela’ Performed On Mahastami In Odisha’s Balasore

Balasore: Several Akhada Parishads of the district organised their shows as part of Dussera celebration at Makalpur Hanuman temple adhering to COVID guidelines on Wednesday.

As per tradition, Akhada Parishads gather at the Hanuman temples each year on the Mahaastami day of Dussera seeking the Lord’s blessings. After worshiping their weapons, the members of the Parishads display their skills on the streets.

“Former chief minister late Harekrushna Mahatab had started the tradition in 1925. He had rebelled against the Britishers using mace, swords and lathis. We are performing with a limited number of members and audience in keeping with government’s COVID guidelines,” said an artiste. Local women are also being trained by the Parishad members.

“We don’t know when the situation will become normal and we can get a chance to witness the cultural event in a larger gathering,” said a villager.