Anandapur, Jan 8: A popular jatra artist, Kahnu Swain, was found dead under mysterious circumstances near Betira Chhak on the Anandpur-Bhadrak road. His body with deep injuries was found late on Wednesday night.

According to reports, Kahnu Swain, a resident of Badrampas village in the Anandpur sub-division of the Keonjhar district, had traveled to Bhadrak the previous night along with some locals from Abulapura village for a performance. He was set to attend a gathering in the Ranthiak area of Bhadrak district. Around 3 am, his severely injured body was found by passersby near Betira Chhak on the Bhadrak road. Suspicion of foul play arose among the villagers, especially since the others who had traveled with him were not present at the scene.

The cause of death is yet to be determined, and local police have begun an investigation into the incident.

Kahnu Swain had been a renowned performer for over 30 years, working with several traveling theater parties such as Tulasi, Parvati, Madhubasanti, and Ashtashambhu. His sudden death has left his family and the community in shock, and locals are demanding justice.

The death of the celebrated artist has raised concerns, with the villagers calling for a thorough probe to uncover the truth behind his tragic end.