Polls have come as a boon for artistes of the dying folk dance form 'ghoda nach' with virtually all political parties in the region promising to hold the horse dance fair annually in a bid to win the support of the fishermen community.
The dominant fishermen community used to hold the annual festival which showcased the unique dance form performed by artistes chosen from among them during 'chaitra purnima' week.
However, due to the TV onslaught, the dance form is dying a slow death.
Hoping to woo the fishermen community, political leaders have promised to hold a 'ghoda nacha melan' (horse dance fair) on a grand scale this year.
As per tradition, fishermen of Dhamnagar and Bhadrak blocks in the district congregate at the Bhadrakali padia here with their troupes and stage the dance in front of Maa Bhadrakali.
Artistes are blessed with 'agnya mala' (deity's garland) by the priest after the festival.
