Shock and awe in the world of Jatra

In the Hindu epic Ramayana, Prince Rama, his wife Sita, and brother Lakshmana encounter the demon Viradha in the forests of Dandakaranya, leading to Sita’s abduction. In a theatrical adaptation in Odisha, a performer playing Viradha used a live pig in a shocking scene, sparking outrage from animal rights activists and lawmakers. The incident has highlighted the evolving nature of Jatra, a traditional form of folk theatre in the region, which now includes more stunts and modern elements to appeal to audiences. This shift has raised concerns about animal cruelty and the preservation of traditional storytelling in Jatra performances.

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