Condolence Meeting for Late Prashanta Kumar Padhi, Advisor of Anchalika Suraksha Manch and Prominent Jatra Artist
Balasore, Oct 19 (Krushna Kumar Mohanty): A condolence meeting was held at the office of Anchalika Suraksha Manch near Kuruda Chhak under Sadar Block to mourn the demise of veteran Jatra artist and advisor of the organization, late Prashanta Kumar Padhi. The meeting was presided over by Kamal Kumar Raut, President of the Manch.
During the meeting, several members of the organization and eminent local personalities, including Ranjan Kumar Das, Ashwini Kumar Dash, Sudhakar Raut, Sanjeev Pradhan, Mahesh Pani, Sanjeev Nayak, Bishwanath Singh, and Balu Singh, shared their memories of the late artist and prayed for the peace of his departed soul.
Late Padhi was a renowned and popular performer in regional Jatra troupes, widely admired for his powerful acting in both villainous and other dramatic roles that captivated audiences. On the fateful day of October 9, he left home on his bullet motorbike to perform what turned out to be the final act of his life. He was on his way from Balasore to Thakurmunda for a Jatra performance when tragedy struck.
He met with a fatal accident on the way, leaving everyone in deep shock and disbelief. “It still feels unreal,” said youth social worker Ranjan Das, his eyes filled with tears. “Such a rare and multi-talented personality is hard to find. He was loved by everyone as a kind-hearted human being.”
Originally from Badakia, Padhi had been residing in Haridagram for the past few years. His dedication to the art of Jatra acting earned him wide recognition. Those who heard his dialogues once could never forget them. He had acted with several Jatra troupes and was recently associated with the Kalinga Darbar troupe.
Beyond acting, he was also deeply engaged in social activities and earned respect as an active RTI worker. He played key roles in several local committees, including Kuruda Durga Puja Committee, Kuruda Mahotsav Committee, and Anchalika Suraksha Manch.
Unfortunately, while on his way to Thakurmunda, he reportedly fell from his moving bullet and sustained critical injuries. Local villagers and fellow artists rushed him to Thakurmunda Group Health Centre for initial treatment, and later he was shifted to Balasore. However, destiny had other plans—he passed away on the 12th, leaving his community grief-stricken.
“Such a genial, devoted, and talented actor is rare in our region,” said Sanjeev Nayak, overcome with emotion. “His death is hard to accept.” The organization’s president, Mr. Raut, also expressed deep sorrow, describing his demise as an irreparable loss to society.
