Renowned actor Satyanarayan Podha, celebrated for his portrayal of Nandaraja in the world‑famous Bargarh Dhanu Yatra, passed away late Wednesday night at the age of 70.
Reports confirmed that he suffered a heart attack and was rushed to a private hospital, where he died during treatment.
Podha had carried forward a family legacy, performing the role of Nandaraja for over two decades after his father, Basudev Podha, originally essayed the character. His commanding presence and dedication made him a central figure in the festival, which is recognised as the world’s largest open‑air theatre.
The news of his demise has cast a shadow of grief over the Dhanu Yatra community and beyond. Organisers, fellow performers, and devotees expressed deep sorrow, recalling his immense contribution to keeping the tradition alive. Many described him as irreplaceable, noting that his portrayal of Nandaraja became synonymous with the grandeur of the festival.
Tributes poured in from cultural circles across Odisha, with admirers highlighting his role in preserving the heritage of Dhanu Yatra and inspiring younger generations of performers. His passing marks the end of an era for the festival, which annually draws thousands of visitors to Bargarh.
