Bargarh: For Sushil Kumar Meher, playing Kansa at Bargarh’s world-famous Dhanu Yatra was a dream nurtured over decades. But barely a year after securing the coveted role, the theatre artiste has decided to step aside for a year amid mounting criticism of his performance, bringing an unexpected turn to his theatrical journey.

A resident of Chichinda village in Bheden block of Bargarh district, Meher’s story is one of perseverance, ambition and the pressures that accompany a role deeply embedded in Odisha’s cultural imagination.

A dream pursued for two decades

Meher first portrayed Kansa in 2004 at a Dhanu Yatra in Bhatli. Over the years, he performed the mythological character at several festivals and Kans Darbars across western Odisha. His repertoire also included other formidable mythological figures, such as Ravana and Jarasandha.

Actor Behind the Mask

1. A 20-year pursuit: Sushil Kumar Meher reportedly auditioned 15 times before securing the coveted role in 2025
2. A career in mythological theatre: He first played Kans in Bhatli in 2004 and also portrayed characters such as Ravana and Jarasandha
3. A year-long break: Amid audience criticism and demands for a replacement, he has stepped aside for 2026–27 but remains open to a future return

Despite years of experience, securing the role at Bargarh remained an elusive ambition. He reportedly auditioned 15 times before finally being selected to play Kansa at the 78th edition of Dhanu Yatra in 2025. The selection process drew 44 applicants, of whom 36 reached the final round.

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With the opportunity finally within reach, Meher reportedly devoted 10–12 hours a day to rehearsals, preparing for one of the most prominent roles in Odisha’s theatrical tradition. He has said that he had no formal acting guru, learning instead by observing village performances and drawing inspiration from mythological stories taught by his parents.

From coveted role to controversy

His appointment, however, was followed by criticism of his performance during the 2025 festival. Audience dissatisfaction grew, with demands for a replacement resurfacing ahead of the next edition. Criticism also spread across social media.

Meher had signed a three-year contract in 2025. At an October 13 meeting, the Dhanu Yatra Executive Committee passed a proposal seeking a change of actor by voice vote, while allowing time for further deliberations.

Before the Artists’ Selection Committee could meet on October 28, Meher submitted his letter seeking a year-long break to the festival committee president and district collector Aditya Goyal.

A pause, not necessarily a farewell

Meher has said that his primary aim as an actor has always been to entertain audiences. Citing the prevailing controversy, he has opted to step aside for 2026–27, while expressing willingness to return if another opportunity arises.

Whether a fresh selection will be held or another finalist will be considered remains unclear.

For an actor who pursued the role through 15 auditions, this is an unexpected pause in a long-awaited journey. His story also reflects the intense expectations surrounding Kansa, a character whose portrayal remains central to the spectacle and cultural identity of Bargarh’s Dhanu Yatra.