Bhubaneswar: Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of renowned puppeteer Padma Shri Maguni Charan Kuanr, who died at the age of 88 following a prolonged illness at his home in Keonjhar.
In his condolence message, the Chief Minister lauded Guru Maguni Kuanr’s immense contribution to reviving the endangered puppet dance tradition of Odisha. “The demise of Guru Maguni Kuanr, a recipient of many awards and honours, is an irreparable loss to the traditional art of Odisha,” Patnaik stated.
In recognition of Kuanr’s significant cultural contributions, Chief Minister Patnaik has ordered that his last rites be performed with full state honours.
Kuanr, who had recently been admitted to the Keonjhar District Headquarters Hospital due to old-age-related health issues, was awarded the Padma Shri by President Droupadi Murmu in 2023 for his exceptional work in preserving the traditional art of rod puppetry, known locally as Kathi Kundhei Nacha.
The Chief Minister extended his deepest condolences to Kuanr’s bereaved family and prayed for his soul to rest in peace.
Maguni Charan Kuanr’s legacy as a cultural icon who played a pivotal role in the preservation and promotion of Odisha’s traditional puppetry will be remembered and cherished by future generations.
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