In Odisha, Padma Shri Maguni Charan Kuanr, passed away at his Keonjhar residence today morning. He was 88 and was not well for months. Kuanr was conferred Padma Shri, one of the highest civilian awards of the country, by President Droupadi Murmu last year for his lifelong contribution to the field of art for keeping alive the dying art of rod puppetry and promoting the traditional rod puppet dance.

President Droupadi Murmu has expressed sadness over the demise of renowned puppeteer and Padma Shri awardee Maguni Charan Kuanr today. In a social media post President Murmu offered her condolences and said that Mr Kuanr has left behind an inspiring legacy.

Mr Kuanr passed away this morning at his residence in Keonjhar district of Odisha. He was awarded the Padma Shri by President Murmu last year for promoting the traditional rod puppet dance.