Bhubaneswar: In a tragic incident, popular Kalinga Gananatya comedian Debendra Das, popularly known as Budhiana, died after collapsing during a stage performance in the Chheligada area of Gajapati district on Friday.
According to sources, moments after the show began, Das suddenly complained of severe discomfort and collapsed on stage.
He was immediately rushed to the Chheligada PHC for emergency treatment. As his condition deteriorated, doctors referred him to Chandragiri Community Health Centre (CHC) for advanced care.
Despite the medical team’s best efforts, Das was declared dead upon arrival at the CHC. Preliminary reports indicate that he may have suffered a cardiac arrest, though the exact cause of death is yet to be confirmed.
Following the incident, organisers announced the cancellation of the opera on its opening day as a mark of respect to the departed artiste.
The tragic news has cast a pall of gloom over the local cultural community, with fellow artistes, theatre enthusiasts, and fans expressing profound grief over the sudden demise of the beloved performer.
Budhiana was widely admired for his comic timing and contributions to the Kalinga Gananatya theatre tradition, and his untimely death has left the community in shock.
