What Lies Behind The Plastic Smiles Of Dancers At Bihar's Sonepur Cattle Fair?
Every year, the Sonepur Cattle Fair in Bihar, India, attracts millions of visitors and showcases a kaleidoscope of cultural performances. However, behind the vibrant smiles and energetic dance moves of the performers lies a harsh reality of exploitation and deception.
Kajal, a prominent dancer at the fair, has witnessed firsthand the struggles of her fellow performers. "We are treated as commodities, not as artists," she says, her voice barely above a whisper. "Our employers take a significant portion of our earnings, leaving us with barely enough to survive."
Kajal's story is not an isolated incident. Many dancers at the fair are forced to work under exploitative conditions, with long hours and low pay. They are often subjected to physical and emotional abuse, and are denied access to basic amenities like food and shelter.
The dancers are also made to conform to a narrow definition of beauty, with strict rules governing their appearance and behavior. "We are expected to wear elaborate costumes and heavy makeup, but our bodies are not treated with the same care," says Kajal. "We are often forced to perform in harsh weather conditions, without adequate rest or nutrition."
Despite their talents and dedication, the dancers at the Sonepur Cattle Fair remain invisible to the public eye. Their struggles and sacrifices are often overlooked, as they are reduced to mere spectacles for the entertainment of the masses. It is time to shine a light on their plight and work towards creating a more equitable and just environment for these talented individuals.
