Odisha police and forest department have arrested a 45-year-old theatre actor in Odisha for his ‘raw’ portrayal of a character onstage. The actor, portraying the role of a demon in Ramayana, killed a pig and ate its raw meat during the performance.
The actor, identified as Bimbadhar Gouda, was arrested by Odisha forest personnel after a video of his performance last month went viral on social media. Authorities have also arrested the organiser of the event for violating the Wildlife Protection Act.
The play based on Ramayana was performed in Ralab village in the Hinjili police station area as part of Kanjianal Yatra in the village. Berhampur Divisional Forest Officer Sunny Khokar said action was taken against the duo after videos of the incident went viral on social media. The organisers are also facing charges for displaying snakes during the play.
“We are also looking for the persons who displayed snakes in the theatre. They will also be arrested soon," PTI reported quoting DFO Sunny Khokar.
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According to police, a case has been registered against the theatre actor and organisers for violating Wildlife Act and killing a pig onstage. Srinibas Sethy, Hinjili police station inspector-in-charge said, “We have registered a case against the theatre actor who killed the pig and ate its meat in the theatre, and arrested him. To attract audience, the theatre group displayed snakes while a demon ripped the stomach of a live pig with a knife, which was tied to the ceiling of the stage and ate some of the organs in full public view,” PTI reported.
In fresh guidelines issued last year, the Odisha government prohibited the public display of snakes, even by certified snake handlers. The incident caused huge outrage with several animal rights activists condemning the incident and they demanded severe action against the performers.
Bharatiya Janata Party legislators Babu Singh and Sanatan Bijuli also condemned the incident in the Odisha Assembly.
