Bhubaneswar: An opera actor of Tulasi Gananatya appeared at the Bairi Forest Range office in Jajpur to clarify the controversy surrounding his use of a python during a rehearsal performance. The incident, which was captured on video and went viral, showed actor Subham Sai performing with the snake wrapped around his arm.
The forest department had raided the Tulasi Gananatya camp and issued a notice to Sai, prompting him to appear at the office and produce necessary documents permitting him to keep and perform with the snake. The forest department is investigating the matter to determine if Sai’s actions were in compliance with the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.
The incident has sparked debate among wildlife experts and legal observers, who point out that using wild animals in entertainment without authorisation is a punishable offence. The forest ranger questioned Sai and verified his documents as part of the investigation.
The controversial performance during the rehearsal of the play ‘Ei Bodhe Sesha Dekha’ by the Tulasi Gananatya went viral on social media. In the video, the actor was seen performing with the python wrapped around his arm on stage. The rehearsal was held ahead of the 2025–26 jatra season.
