Berhampur, Nov 20: More than ten artists and committee members appeared before the Digapahandi police in Ganjam after allegations of obscene acts during a Ramayana stage performance at the Maulabhanja village Yatra. Two troupes had staged competitive Ramayana plays for Kartika Purnima, during which a viral video reportedly showed item girl Nisha Maharana and the actor playing Ravana performing vulgar gestures during the Sita-abduction scene.

Police have questioned four artists from the Jura troupe and several members of the Maulabhanja Yatra Committee. Another troupe from Khallikote has not yet appeared. The performance, which continued for 60 hours despite an agreement for 24, allegedly included multiple item dancers, kinnars, and risky use of machinery like JCBs and cranes.

The district administration had earlier banned obscene dances and antisocial content in Danda Nata and similar cultural shows, warning of legal action for violations. Public outrage has risen sharply, with many demanding strict action against those involved.