Jeypore: Young dancer and child artist Thukul fell seriously ill and was initially admitted to the district headquarters hospital. As his condition worsened, he was transferred to Laxman Nayak Medical College and Hospital in Koraput. Later, 15 days ago, he was shifted to Brahmapur MKCG Medical College for further treatment. Unfortunately, on Sunday night at around 9:30 PM, Thukul passed away while undergoing treatment.
There was a delay in arranging an ambulance to bring his body back. Film director Gopal Pattnayak, upon learning about the situation, contacted MLA Taraprasad Bahinipati, who then coordinated with the Ganjam District Collector to arrange an ambulance. By Monday morning, Thukul’s mortal remains reached his residence in Paikasahi, where a mourning atmosphere prevailed.
A Rising Talent Lost Too Soon
Thukul was a talented child actor, excelling in acting from a young age. At just six years old, he appeared on the silver screen and acted in over 15 films. Many filmmakers had high hopes for his future, but fate had other plans. At just 13 years old, child artist Thukul, whose real name was Santoshi Tarasia, passed away on Sunday night at MKCG Hospital in Brahmapur.
He had been under treatment for 15 days in a critical condition. On Monday morning, his body was brought home, and well-wishers and fellow artists paid their last respects. His final rites were performed at the Paikasahi crematorium.
Four years ago, Thukul lost his mother, and since then, he was being raised by his father, Durga Tarasia. Everything seemed fine until a month ago when his health deteriorated.
A Promising Career Cut Short
Film director Gopal Pattnayak expressed his grief, stating that Koraput district had lost a promising young artist. Thukul began his acting career at the age of six with the short film Stree, where he played the role of Gopal’s daughter.
He later acted in 15 films as a child artist, including Ka’na Neba, Jorbhavya, Pratijna, Haaye Re Bidhata, Karma, Samparkara Dori, Picnic, Swargadwara, Matrudev Bhava, Madhu Engineeranka Jhia Dekha, Punaruddhar, and more. His last film was Jai Jagannath.
Many had envisioned a bright future for Thukul in the film industry, with plans for upcoming films featuring him. His untimely demise has left the industry in shock and grief.