Keonjhar, April 2: Odisha’s master puppeteer Maguni Charan Kuanr, who was conferred with prestigious Padmashree for the year 2023, has been hospitalized at Keonjhar District Headquarters Hospital after became unwell.
According to the reports, Kuanr has been unwell for the last few days. However, yesterday, his condition deteriorated to the point where he couldn't stand or sit, prompting his family to admit him to the District Headquarters Hospital. Fortunately, doctors have reported that his condition is now stable.
Born in 1937 in Keonjhar, Kuanr comes from a family of traditional puppeteers. He was introduced to the art of Kandhei Nacha, using rod puppets, by his father, Baishnab Charan Kuanr. Over the years, Kuanrs expertise in puppetry earned recognition both in India and abroad, leading to accolades such as the prestigious Sangeet Natak Akademi Award for his significant contributions to Odisha's traditional puppetry.
Tragically, Kuanr has faced immense personal loss in the past. He recently lost his elder son, adding to the grief of losing his younger son a few years back. He has been leading a lonely life after the demise of both his sons, said sources.
