Bhubaneswar: Ekamra MLA Babu Singh has reportedly started a ‘Thenga Abhian’ (special drive using long wooden dowel sticks) to check obscene dance performance at Khandagiri Jatra in Bhubaneswar.
As part of the special drive, Singh has formed a special team including several women which he has named as ‘Thenga Bahini’ (activists armed with long wooden dowel sticks) to keep a close vigil on the Jatra troupes and take action against the organizers and artistes if they resort to any sort of vulgarity.
The legislator along with his supporters also conducted a special puja of 100 thengas, long wooden dowel sticks, which will be used to thrash the obscene dance performance performers.
Speaking about the objective of the ‘Thenga Abhian,’ the BJP MLA said, “Odia culture is the best culture of the world. However, it has been marred by the artistes with vulgarity and obscenity so much so that one cannot see the stages shows or programs along with the family members. Therefore, we have started this ‘Thenga Abhian’ against obscene dance performance or usage of words and languages at the Jatras.”
“I appeal the jatra troupes and artistes to stay away from such obscene performances or else the thengas will be used against them,” he warned.
On the other hand, the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation has issued a strict warning in this regard and advised the organisers to conduct the jatras within the historical tradition and dignity. Strict action will be taken if rules are violated, BMC warned.
