Bargarh, Oct 29: The search for a new actor to portray Kans Maharaj in the 79th edition of the world-famous Bargarh Dhanu Yatra is set to begin on November 1, with the festival authorities preparing to issue an official notification inviting applications for the iconic role.
Interested artists will be able to submit their applications until November 15, while the final selection is expected to be completed in the last week of November.
In a significant move, the organisers have decided to remove the upper age limit for applicants, opening the door for experienced performers above 60 years of age. However, applicants in this age group must submit a medical fitness certificate along with their applications.
Two-Year Tenure for Selected Artist
The decisions were taken at an emergency meeting of the Artists’ Advisory Committee held on Wednesday in the conference hall of the Bargarh District Collector’s office. The meeting was chaired by Additional District Magistrate Mahendra Mahapatra, with members deliberating on the selection process for the prestigious character.
Dhanu Yatra Mahotsav Samiti secretary Sureswar Satapathy said the notification would be issued on November 1, and applications would remain open until November 15. The selection process is scheduled to conclude in the final week of the month.
According to the committee’s decision, the selected actor will portray Kans Maharaj for a two-year term. The removal of the age restriction is expected to give a broader range of performers an opportunity to audition for the celebrated role.
Sushil Meher’s Break Prompts Search for Successor
The selection process has assumed added importance following renowned actor Sushil Meher’s decision to take a one-year break from portraying Kans Maharaj in the annual open-air theatrical spectacle.
In a letter addressed to Bargarh Collector and Dhanu Yatra Mahotsav Samiti president Aditya Goyal, Meher cited the impact of circumstances surrounding his performances and recent controversies on his mental well-being.
The actor referred to continued mental stress and emotional instability, stating that he would be unable to portray Kans Maharaj during this year’s festival.
His decision has prompted the organisers to begin preparations for finding a new performer to take on one of the most prominent roles in the celebrated cultural event.
A Prestigious Role in Odisha’s Cultural Calendar
Bargarh Dhanu Yatra is renowned for transforming the town into a vast open-air theatrical stage, recreating episodes from the life of Lord Krishna and the reign of the demon king Kans. The portrayal of Kans Maharaj remains one of the festival’s central attractions, drawing considerable public attention each year.
With the notification scheduled for November 1, the coming weeks will be crucial for aspiring performers hoping to take on the role in the festival’s 79th edition.
The organisers are now preparing to complete the selection process by the end of November, paving the way for a new actor to assume the celebrated character for the next two-year term.