Dhanu Yatra / Kansa Actor Sushil Meher Steps Away from Baragada Dhanu Yatra for One Year

Baragada, Oct 26: In a significant development ahead of the world-famous Baragada Dhanu Yatra, actor Sushil Meher, who was selected to portray the character of Maharaja Kansa for the 2025-26 festival, has sought a one-year exemption from the role, citing mental distress caused by recent controversies surrounding his performance.

Meher submitted a formal letter to Baragada Collector Aditya Goyal, who is also the president of the Dhanu Yatra Mahotsav Committee, requesting to be relieved from participating in the upcoming 2026-27 edition of the festival.

Controversy over Performance

Under the established rules of Dhanu Yatra, an actor selected for the role of Kansa is normally expected to continue in the role for three years. However, controversy emerged following the last edition of the festival, with some quarters questioning Meher's performance as the mythological king.

The issue surfaced prominently during the first meeting of the Dhanu Yatra Mahotsav Committee held recently. Various committees reportedly demanded that Meher be replaced as Kansa. The festival committee had sought to arrive at a decision within 15 days.

Before any formal decision could be taken, Meher chose to step aside voluntarily for one year.

In his response, Meher stated that the controversy created by certain vested interests had caused him mental anguish, prompting him to take the decision. He further said that he would be willing to return to the role in future if the Dhanu Yatra Mahotsav Committee provides him another opportunity.

Search for a New Kansa

With preparations underway for the next edition of Dhanu Yatra, scheduled to be held from January 12 to January 22, attention has now shifted to the selection of a new Kansa actor.

As the festival is only a few months away, there is growing curiosity among residents and cultural enthusiasts over whether the committee will conduct a fresh selection process or choose a replacement from among the contestants who figured in the top five during the previous Kansa selection exercise.

The committee is yet to announce its decision.
Also Read: Inside Bargarh Dhanu Yatra Where Even Chief Ministers Answer the Call of King Kansa

Baragada Dhanu Yatra

Recognised as the world's largest open-air theatre festival, Baragada Dhanu Yatra recreates episodes from the life of Lord Krishna, with the entire town transforming into the mythical kingdom of Mathura. The portrayal of Maharaja Kansa is considered the festival's most prominent and closely watched role, attracting thousands of spectators every year.