Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government on Saturday allows meeting and cultural programs, including melodies, orchestras, Jatras, Opera, dance shows and theaters, following Covid guidelines.
Indoor halls, auditoriums and cinema space will be permitted to function with a capacity of 50%.
The Jatras and Opera have so far been permitted with 500 people but now they can run performances with up to 2,000 people among the audience.
Jatra and Opera are one of the worst blows during a pandemic because they cannot do for months because of covid restrictions.
Notifications issued by the Special Assistance Commissioner (SRC) say keep the size of the ground or space in view, the appropriate number of people (subject to a 2,000 ceiling) will be permitted with the maintenance of the specified norms such as a distance of six feet and sitting settings.
However, Jatra artists accused several district administration did not give them permission to show the show.
“It is indeed a very relieving that the government relaxes all restrictions for JATRA shows which caused a big loss due to the lack of audience,” said Hiralal RK, Secretary, Jatra Kalakar and Karmachari Mahasangha.
There are more than 100 Groups of JATRA in the state that provides more than 50,000 jobs.
“Performing during the day is not possible because we have a night show tradition.
Many artists and owners of Jatra have changed their profession and some artists have migrated to find work,” said Daitari Panda, President of Jatra Kalakaka.
“It might need another month for Jatra owners to get ready for the show.
It also needs time to create awareness among the audience to follow the guidelines such as the ban on chewing and gutkha, even though it’s not impossible,” he added.