Bargarh Dhanu Yatra 2027 to Get New Kansa as Actor Sushil Meher Steps Down

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Bargarh: The world-famous Dhanu Yatra festival in Bargarh of  Odisha is set to witness a new actor portraying Maharaja Kansa after Sushil Meher, who was selected for the iconic role for three years, stepped down from the position.

Meher submitted his resignation letter to Bargarh Collector and Dhanu Yatra Mahotsav Committee President Aditya Goyal ahead of the selection process for the role of Kansa.

Reportedly, Sushil Meher had been selected to portray Maharaja Kansa for three consecutive years. However, his performance during the first year reportedly failed to impress a section of the audience, leading to criticism and trolling on social media.

The issue also sparked heated discussions during an executive committee meeting of the Dhanu Yatra Mahotsav Committee held at the Bargarh Collector’s conference hall.

During the meeting, several members reportedly expressed dissatisfaction with Meher’s portrayal of Kansa and demanded a fresh selection process to choose another actor for the prestigious role.

Amid the controversy and ahead of the proposed selection process, Meher decided to step down and formally submitted his resignation.

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Meanwhile, preparations are underway for the upcoming Bargarh Dhanu Yatra, scheduled to be held from January 12 to January 22, 2027, for 11 days.

The festival, widely regarded as the world’s largest open-air theatre, transforms Bargarh into the mythological kingdom of Mathura, where the story of Lord Krishna and King Kansa is enacted.

The character of Maharaja Kansa remains one of the central attractions of the festival, drawing thousands of spectators every year.

A meeting of the Dhanu Yatra Artists’ Advisory Committee has been scheduled for October 28 at 5 PM, during which matters related to the selection of artists are expected to be discussed.

With Sushil Meher stepping down, attention has now turned towards the selection of the next actor who will portray the powerful and iconic character of Maharaja Kansa at the internationally renowned festival.

Also read: Gajalaxmi Puja Celebrated with Religious Fervour in Bhubaneswar, Dhenkanal, Angul and Kendrapara

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