Jatra (Odisha)

Jatra (also mancha, opera) is a kind of Odia theater performance in the Indian state of Odisha. The performance includes play, music and dance. Historically jatra performance were introduced during the Moghul rule. Theater performance in Odisha were based on stories of Mahabharata and Ramayana, later modern plays were also included. Mohguls rulers were interested in dance, music and the majlis which has influenced the jatra. Persian and Hindustani words and characters like "Jamadar" and "Sipahi" were introduced in Odia jatra. Jatra was revived during the period of Baishṇaba Pāṇi with the introduction of "gitinatya" (musical performance).