Bhubaneswar: The Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) will strictly enforce the ban imposed on obscene dance numbers in Jatra (opera) shows during Khandagiri Mela in Odisha capital.
BMC Commissioner Rajesh Prabhakar Patil told reporters that he has clearly asked the jatra troupe owners to refrain from including any obscene dance performance during the Khandagiri Mela beginning in Bhubaneswar on Tuesday.
“The owners opera troupes have been asked not to tarnish the image of the historic Khandagiri and the Kumbh Mela. Strict action will be taken in case of any violation,” the BMC Commissioner said.
Patil said that the owners are aware of the guidelines and he expects that the jatra and opera shows will be performed strictly in accordance with the guidelines.
Khandagiri Mela, also referred as Magha Mela, Khandagiri Kumbh Mela or Kumbh Mela of Bhubaneswar, is a religious fair. It is organised by the BMC, attracting thousands of devotees, pilgrims, and tourists. The fair is organised on the Odia calendar month of Magha every year.
Apart from the Religious rituals, the fair has become one of the major cultural events in the state. It represents the rich cultural heritage of Odisha. It is a significant cultural and religious gathering, featuring spiritual discourses, folk performances, handicraft exhibitions, and a vibrant marketplace.
The Khandagiri Mela 2025 is all set to commence on Tuesday and conclude on February 12.
The BMC Commissioner has also reviewed the preparations and arrangements at Khandagiri ahead of the Kumbh Mela.
Patil said BMC is giving priorities to drinking water and sustainable lighting. “We are giving utmost importance to sustainable lighting and drinking water,” he said.
“We are also keeping a close eye on the sanitation system at the venue. The situation in this regard is looking good,” Patil added.
