Odisha / Tulasi Gananaatya Owner Faces Fresh Controversy Over Financial Dispute

Bhubaneswar, Sept 12: The celebrated Tulasi Gananaatya troupe has once again found itself embroiled in controversy, this time over allegations of financial irregularities involving its owner, Ananta Narayan Dhal, popularly known as Nandu Babu.

According to reports, a Rasulgarh‑based committee here accused Dhal of failing to return over Rs40 lakh taken from local businessmen. In protest, the committee members and supporters intercepted the jatra troupe’s truck carrying stage equipment near the Excise Superintendent’s Office at Rasulgarh, leading to uncertainty over the scheduled performance at Rupali Square in the city.

Show in Doubt

The troupe was slated to stage a play at Rupali Square here on Friday night. However, with the truck carrying props and stage materials held up, the performance was cancelled. On Saturday, questions remained over whether the show would go ahead, despite preparations by the Rupali Yatra Committee, which had already sold 800 tickets and arranged seating for 2,300 spectators.

Dispute Over Funds

Sources said the Rasulgarh committee had advanced Rs40 lakh to Dhal, which allegedly remained unpaid. The standoff escalated when the committee blocked the troupe’s vehicle, preventing equipment from reaching Rupali Square.

Temporary Resolution

By Saturday morning, reports indicated that the Rasulgarh committee had released the truck, allowing the troupe’s equipment to reach Rupali. Yet, confusion persisted over whether the performance would take place.

Also Read: Odisha: Jatra Troupe Owner Ananta Narayan Dhal Denied Entry Into Congress

Owner’s Assurance

Dhal dismissed concerns, stating there was “no problem” and assuring that the play would be staged as planned. “All preparations are underway,” he said, seeking to calm tensions.

The incident highlights the recurring disputes surrounding Tulasi Gananaatya, one of Odisha’s most prominent theatre troupes, and raises questions about financial transparency in the state’s vibrant jatra culture.