The Changing Trends of Jatra Theatres in Odisha: A Sociological Analysis

Abstract

Since thousands of years, Jatra tradition in the form of theatrical activities has enriched the cultural heritage of Odisha. The word Jatra has several meanings in different occasion. Since the Vedic times during the reign of Emperor Kharabela in 2^nd century B.C, through the 7^th to 9^th century the Buddhist culture and Doha literature and the medieval and pre- independence period witnessed the theatrical performances meant for entertainment in Odisha being an integral part of Odia culture. During the post-independence period, this tradition got a new look with the jatra parties were renovated to a new form inviting modernization in their structure, content, style in full commercial forms. Jatra can be treated as a culture industry. Based on qualitative observations made through repeated visits to Jatra performances, interviews with Jatra performers and other stakeholders of Jatra parties, this paper analyses the changing dimensions of Jatra culture in Odisha and at some point, retaining some of its traditional elements.