Argus News - Dancer Nisha Maharana's Performance Sparks Protest At Bhandaripokhari Jatra Event

Bhadrak, Jan 12: A brief disruption took place during a jatra and melody programme at Bhandaripokhari’s Hanuman Padia on Sunday after a section of the audience objected to a dance performance by item dancer Nisha Maharana, officials associated with the event said.

The programme was organised by the Jay Bajrang Bali Jatra Committee, with performances by Parbati Gananatya scheduled over three days — Sunday, Monday and Tuesday. Sunday marked the opening night of the event, during which the play titled “To Lagi Bada Danda Mana” (Grand Road is forbidden for you) was staged. A large number of spectators were present.

According to organisers, the committee had earlier publicised the appearance of item dancer Nisha Maharana. There were also plans to feature item dancers Misti and Manasi Panda on subsequent days. Maharana reportedly appeared on stage early in the programme and performed an initial dance.

Event organisers said that during a subsequent performance, a section of the audience objected to her dance, terming it inappropriate. The situation escalated briefly when some members of the crowd threw chairs and footwear towards the stage in protest. The performance was halted, leading to a tense situation at the venue for a short period.

After intervention by organisers and local volunteers, the situation was brought under control. Once calm was restored, the jatra and melody programme resumed later in the night, officials said.

No injuries were reported in the incident, and no damage to the stage structure was officially confirmed. There was no immediate information on whether a police complaint was lodged in connection with the disturbance.

Also Read: Cold Wave Returns to Odisha After Brief Pause, Mercury Dips Sharply

Organisers said they are reviewing crowd management and programme sequencing to avoid similar disruptions during the remaining days of the event.