Jatra artiste Rani Panda's car hits two-wheeler, rider dies

The car in which popular opera (jatra) artiste Rani Panda was travelling allegedly hit a two wheeler at Dalkhai square on Mundali-Athgarh road on Friday night killing the bike-rider.

As per reports, the seriously injured biker was initially rushed to the SCB Hospital in Cuttack for treatment following the accident. However, he succumbed to his injuries early on Saturday morning.

The deceased has been identified as 30-year-old Sukant Behera from Rajnagar village in Athgarh.

Palpable tension prevailed on the spot after the road accident following which, Panda was taken to Athgarh police station for further questioning in connection with the incident.

While the driver of the car has been detained by the Athgarh police, Rani Panda was released from the Police Station after initial questioning, late Friday night.

Sources said, the jatra artiste was returning to Bhubaneswar after attending a marriage party when the mishap occurred.