Bargarh: The iconic role of King Kansa in Bargarh’s world-famous Dhanu Yatra will be played by a new artist during the event scheduled from January 3 to 13, 2025.
This decision was taken at a preparatory meeting of the Dhanu Yatra Committee held at the District Collector’s office on Friday.
The change follows the suspension of Hrusikesh Bhoi, who had portrayed the central character of King Kansa for several years. Bhoi, a hearse driver under Odisha’s ‘Mahaprayan’ scheme, was suspended by the Health Department after being accused of bribery.
According to sources, Bhoi was responsible for transporting deceased individuals from government hospitals to their families’ residences free of charge under the scheme.
However, during one such duty, he demanded ₹3,000 from a family to transport a body from the District Headquarters Hospital (DHH) in Bargarh to Bahala village in Gaisilat block.
The family paid the amount but subsequently lodged a complaint at the hospital. After an investigation, Bhoi was suspended from his position.
Despite his suspension, Bhoi had initially been selected to reprise the role of King Kansa in the 2025 Dhanu Yatra. However, the committee has decided to replace him with another artist for the upcoming edition of the event.
Dhanu Yatra, celebrated as the world’s largest open-air theatre, reenacts the mythological tale of Lord Krishna’s slaying of the tyrannical King Kansa.
The 11-day festival transforms Bargarh into Mathura and nearby Ambapalli into Gopapura, drawing participants and audiences from across the globe.
