Jharsuguda, Aug 13: Gopal Sahu, fondly known as Eli, who captivated audiences as the demon King Kansa at Dhanu Yatra for a quarter-century, has passed away while undergoing treatment at a private hospital in Jharsuguda. He was 70.
Hailing from Kainsi village in Barpali of Bargarh district, Sahu had been suffering from diabetes and receiving medical care at a private facility. His tenure as Kansa spanned 23 years, from 1984 to 1998 and again from 2001 to 2008. Unfortunately, his declining health eventually led the organising committee to replace him. The 'loss of his crown and make-belief kingdom' lingered with Sahu, compelling him to watch the performances from home.
Sahu’s legacy continued through his nephew, who portrayed Krishna from 2005 to 2008. In recognition of his outstanding portrayal of the Dwapara Yuga king, Sahu was honoured with the Sangeet Natak Academy Award in 1994, and he also received a lifetime achievement award from the then Chief Minister, J. B. Patnaik.
