Mera Naam Joker, Appu Raja, Shikari, Circus Queen, Murder in the Circus, Phir Hera Pheri, Krrish, and so on. These are a few films with themes focusing on a circus party. Then, in the early 1990s, it was Aziz Mirza’s TV show Circus that made today’s Superstar Shah Rukh Khan a household name in India long before he became a national heartthrob. This was the era when Indian Circus was at its peak, and the profession was adored by people of all ages.
Crowds from all parts of Odisha would throng Bhubaneswar to watch performances by troupes such as The Great Bombay Circus, Gemini Circus, Raj Kamal Circus, Great Rayman Circus, and Olympic Circus. There were hundreds of circus companies in India, including one owned by the royals of Aul from Odisha.
However, due to a variety of factors including new forms of entertainment, the government’s prohibition on the use of wild animals, the Supreme Court’s ban on child labour, and a lack of security for circus performers over the age of 40, the circus is progressively losing its lustre and is on the verge of extinction.
From approximately 300 troupes entertaining a few decades ago, it has now shrunk to a few.
However, the Ajanta Circus of Kolkata considered the largest circus company in eastern India, has been enthralling spectators for more than 50 years and refuses to down its shutter like hundreds of other parties.
The troupe has been performing in Bhubaneswar to a packed crowd, demonstrating that people have yet to abandon this type of entertainment.
Sunday POST had a hearty talk with some of its crew members on the sidelines of their acts about a variety of issues.
Ajanta Circus is here in the city after a very long time, says Sanjit Ghoshal, the troupe manager.
“We have already performed in practically every city, including Bhubaneswar. There is a world of difference between the circus of those days and today. The primary change is that there used to be animal shows, but now there aren’t any. This is why we have performers from Ethiopia, Africa, and Russia among us. The show lasts approximately two and a half hours. Every day, there will be 30 to 32 acts to entertain the fans” he adds.
“When we visited Bhubaneswar 17 years ago, we had lions, tigers, elephants, horses, bears, monkeys, dogs, and parrots. Our next trip to the capital city was in 2012, with only elephants, horses, dogs, and parrots. But this time we have arrived without animals following the guidelines of the government that impose restrictions on the use of animals in circuses. But there will be no compromise with entertainment as we present gymnastic shows similar to those seen at Olympic Games,” claims Sanjit.
“Entering Ajanta Circus is like stepping into another world altogether. The bright colours, energetic music, and enticing aroma of popcorn create an environment of anticipation and excitement. The arena is buzzing with families, children, and circus fans anxious to start on an adventure. Ajanta Circus’ genuine stars are its outstanding performers. Each act demonstrates great skill and dedication, from acrobats defying gravity with astonishing stunts to beautiful aerial artists flying through the skies. The performers come from all over the world, bringing a rich diversity of cultural influences that add a unique flavour to every performance,” the manager says narrating the USP of the show.
“Ajanta Circus is more than just a name; it is an institution. Founded in 1967 by Abdul Aziz with barely Rs. 5000, it is now one of the best in the country. Years of struggle resulted in a troupe of 300 people, including gymnasts from all over the world, horses, dogs, and exotic birds. Ajanta Circus has kept its head held high since its inception on the basis of its belief in entertainment and fantasy,” signs off Sanjit.
Beneath the colorful costumes and charismatic smiles lie the hearts of dedicated performers and crew members who have devoted their lives to the circus.
“Being a part of Ajanta Circus has been my life’s calling,” says Ajay, an Assam-based gymnastic artist.
“I specialise in gymnastics and fire acts, but my favourite is the first one. My training begins at 4 am, and I must be ready by then. Before my act, I take the appropriate steps to ensure that I do not hurt myself or anyone around me. Despite all odds, the circus employees’ passion and commitment have kept the shows going. The arduous routines, the bonding backstage, and the shared sense of purpose have created a family-like atmosphere in which each member is a vital piece of the puzzle,” Ajay adds.
“I’ve been here for about two years and have formed the strongest bonds with my coworkers. The rush of flying high and making friends with my fellow performers are priceless. However, as our audience size shrinks, the uncertainty of our future worries us. We keep hoping, but the road ahead is difficult,” shares the worried artiste.
Another crew member Sartho Mandal says, “I have had the privilege of witnessing firsthand the magic and wonder that unfolds under the big top as a ticket collector for Ajanta Circus for the past 25 years. Ajanta is more than simply a circus; it is a dynamic tapestry of breathtaking performances, heart-stopping acts, and unforgettable experiences. Working as a ticket collector allows me to see the behind-the-scenes preparations that go into making each event a success. The entire team works tirelessly to produce an unforgettable event, from setting up the complex stage to guaranteeing the safety of both performers and onlookers.”
Sartho goes on to say of his team’s main draw: “What sets Ajanta Circus apart is its emphasis on audience participation. It actively involves the audience, making them feel like a vital part of the show, from allowing toddlers to join the clowns on stage to immersing spectators in mind-boggling acts. The joy and excitement on children’s and adults’ faces attest to the circus’s capacity to produce moments of sheer magic and wonder. Being a part of Ajanta Circus has been an amazing experience. The combination of talented performers, fascinating acts, and a lively setting creates an experience unlike any other.
“Ajanta Circus brings people of all ages and cultures together to enjoy the fun and thrill of live entertainment. If you ever have the opportunity to witness the enchantment of Ajanta Circus, do not pass it up; it will leave you with memories that last a lifetime,” suggests Sartho.
“I remember the first time I went to Ajanta Circus with my parents, and now it’s back after a long time, which is really exciting,” said Satabdi Sinha, a long-time circus admirer.
“The circus experience as a whole was nothing short of breathtaking. I could sense the excitement growing in the air the moment I stepped into the colourful and crowded tent. The extraordinary quality of the performers was the first thing that hit me. Each act seemed to stretch the limits of human capability, leaving me in awe. Every performer displayed incredible ability and passion, whether it was the daring acrobats soaring through the air with elegance and accuracy or the fearless tightrope walkers defying gravity. There was never a boring moment, from the colourful and funny clown antics that had me giggling hysterically to the mesmerising show of contortionists twisting their bodies into unfathomable postures. Furthermore, the connection between the performers and the crowd was fantastic. The clowns interacted with the audience with ease, eliciting laughter and applause at every turn,” she continued.
The circus enthusiast, on the other hand, was dissatisfied with the form’s declining popularity.
“Changing dynamics of entertainment has reshaped how people seek entertainment these days. Virtual reality, online gaming, and streaming platforms have slowly replaced the allure of live performances, eroding the traditional circus audience base,” Sinha concludes.
MADHUSMITA SAHU, OP