Bhubaneswar: Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik expressed grief over the passing away of renowned puppeteer Padma Shri Maguni Charan Kuanr.
Patnaik has ordered to perform his last rites with full state honour.
In his condolence message, the CM said that Guru Maguni Kuanr of Keonjhar played a significant role in reviving the endangered puppet dance tradition of Odisha. The demise of Guru Maguni Kuanr, the recipient of many awards and honours, is an irreparable loss to the traditional art of Odisha.
The Chief Minister prayed for his soul to rest in peace. He also expressed his deepest condolences to the bereaved family.
The puppet maestro passed away following pro-longed illness at his residence in Keonjhar at the age of 88.
A few days ago, he was admitted to Keonjhar District Headquarters Hospital in critical condition for old-age-related illness.
Kuanr was awarded the Padma Shri by President Droupadi Murmu for the year 2023.
