Controversy / Unauthorized Documentary on Dana Majhi Sparks Controversy in Odisha

Patnagarh (Balangir), Jul 27: A decade after the heart-wrenching incident that made him a symbol of poverty and neglect, Dana Majhi — once seen carrying his wife’s body on his shoulders along with his 12-year-old daughter in Kalahandi — has resurfaced in the headlines.

This time, Majhi has approached the police, alleging that a short film based on his tragic experience was made without his consent.

On Monday, he visited Patnagarh with his lawyer, first consulting at court and then filing a formal complaint at the local police station.

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The complaint names Sambalpuri film producer Manoj Bag, who Majhi accuses of creating a 35-minute documentary depicting his ordeal and sending it to various film festivals without permission.

Majhi said the unauthorized portrayal has deeply hurt him, reopening wounds from the incident that continues to haunt him even after 10 years.

His lawyer explained that they themselves had worked on a film titled “Dana Majhi: The Tragic Incident”, involving over 400 people and covering not only Majhi’s story but other events from Odisha. He alleged that Bag’s documentary was made independently, without any consultation or approval from Majhi.

The controversy has reignited public debate over ethical filmmaking and the rights of individuals whose personal tragedies are depicted on screen. While Majhi insists that his consent was ignored, Manoj Bag’s response to the allegations has not yet been received.

The incident underscores how Majhi’s life, once marked by unimaginable hardship, continues to be a subject of discussion and representation — raising questions about dignity, consent, and creative responsibility in storytelling.