COVID-19 Lockdown: 9 arrested in Ganjam while preparing for Danda Nacha

Berhampur:  Police arrested nine persons from two separate places in the district last night while preparing to perform Danda Nacha,  a religious folk dance of the district, violating the COVID-19 social distancing norms.

Despite restrictions by the district administration, some Danduas (participants of the Danda Nacha) of Palakasandha village under Gangapur police limits gathered in front of a temple and were conducting a Puja last night. Acting on a tip-off, a police team headed by the DSP raided the area and picked up five Danduas. However, another managed to escape. A case in this connection was later registered.

Besides, the Gangapur police conducted another raid at Balibhaga village under Natenga Panchayat  and arrested four persons while they were preparing for Danda Nacha. The cops also registered a case in this direction.

It is pertinent to mention here that Danda Nacha is considered as the most ancient traditional form of worship in the district. Dandua troupes move from village to village to perform the dance which is dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Kali.