Bargarh Dhanu Yatra Kansa Selection Row Resolved; Age Limit Withdrawn
Bargarh: The controversy surrounding the selection of the iconic Kansa character for the world-famous Bargarh Dhanu Yatra has been resolved after the festival committee decided to withdraw the previously announced upper age limit of 60 years for applicants.
The decision comes in response to protests by members of the Western Odisha Dhanu Yatra Artists’ Association, who had opposed the age restriction and raised concerns regarding transparency in the selection process.
Following discussions between the festival committee and artists’ representatives, the association withdrew its proposed boycott of the Kansa selection process.
The committee clarified that former Kansa performer Sushil Meher had voluntarily stepped down from the role and that his resignation was formally accepted.
To ensure a smooth and fair selection process, the committee has issued a fresh notification inviting eligible artists to apply for the prestigious role.
The selected artist will portray Maharaja Kansa for a two-year term, after which a comprehensive re-selection process for all characters will be undertaken.
Committee officials expressed confidence that the dispute has now been settled amicably and reiterated their commitment to safeguarding the interests of both artists and audiences.
The resolution is expected to pave the way for the successful conduct of the upcoming Dhanu Yatra, regarded as the world’s largest open-air theatre festival and a major cultural attraction in western Odisha.
