The controversy surrounding the selection of Maharaja Kansa for the world-famous Bargarh Dhanu Yatra has been resolved after the festival executive committee agreed to withdraw the 60-year upper age ceiling for the coveted role.
Following a clarification issued by the Dhanu Yatra committee, the Western Odisha Dhanu Yatra Artists’ Association called off its proposed boycott of the selection process and confirmed that eligible artists will begin submitting their application forms from Monday, 9 November 2026.
Clarification on Artist Sushil Meher & Two-Year Selection Window
The standoff had escalated after the Artists’ Association convened an emergency meeting on 5 November at the Chandi Temple premises in Deogaon, demanding transparency over previous artist Sushil Meher’s withdrawal:
- Voluntary Resignation: Dhanu Yatra Festival Committee Secretary Sureswar Satapathy clarified that artist Sushil Meher had voluntarily submitted his resignation letter, which was formally accepted with due respect.
- Notification Period: A fresh notification has been issued to select the lead character for a two-year tenure, after which a comprehensive re-selection process for all theatrical roles will take place.
- Inclusivity Commitment: Satapathy reiterated that the festival committee remains committed to safeguarding the interests of performing artists and spectators across Odisha.
Boycott Called Off Ahead of Open-Air Festival
Following an emergency virtual meeting held on Sunday, 8 November 2026, senior members of the Artists’ Association unanimously accepted the committee’s response, clearing the deck for the smooth conduct of the world’s largest open-air theatre festival.
