Bollywood-based Odia singer Sona Mohapatra triggered yet another row with her latest rendition of the popular Odia Bhajan of poet Salabega ‘Ahe Nila Saila….’
According to a video posted by the singer, she is heard pronouncing Salabega as “Sale Bega”, Charana as “Charane” Shrianga as “Chhiranga” and Matta as “Maatra” in her rendition.The wrong pronunciation of the words has sparked resentment among the Jagannath devotees and singers in Odisha.
Sona’s ‘Ahe Nila Saila’ triggers rowIn reaction, Odisha Bhasa Andolan convenor Pabitra Maharatha said the manner in which Mohapatra has ridiculed lord Jagannath, she should be treated as a habitual offender as she has made all attempts to denigrate the entire Odia race; and for that, the Government should put him in jail.
Similarly, singers Santilata Barik and laxmikant Palit also advised Mohapatra not to denigrate Odia culture.
It may be recalled that Mohapatra had earlier invited widespread criticism for her remix of the cult Sambalpuri song ‘Rangabati’. She was also threatened by a Sufi group over her new music video Tori Surat, following which she had lodged a complaint with the Mumbai police for protection.