Jatra actor Piyush Tripathy at centre of fresh controversy, tensions flare between party owners

In a dramatic turn of events in the jatra industry in Odisha, popular actor Piyush Tripathy finds himself once again at the heart of a major controversy. Internal rifts between the Jatra Owners' Association have resurfaced, with conflicting statements emerging from prominent members.

Sanjeev Padhi, the owner of the Singhabahini troupe, who had previously distanced Piyush for alleged betrayal, has now announced plans to rehire the actor for the next five years. In a recent press conference, Padhi stated that Piyush would return to the stage under his banner despite his one-year rest, indicating a surprising reversal of his earlier stance.

Controversies galore

However, this decision has sparked outrage from other theatre owners. The owner of the Surjyamandir troupe issued a stern warning, threatening legal action if Piyush attempts to perform again on stage, suggesting potential violations of prior agreements or disputes within the association.

In a complete u-turn, Padhi, who had earlier agreed to the decision taken by the owners' association in the presence of everyone, has now completely changed his stance and said that Piyush is joining his party with 100 percent commitment. However, he said that he will not reveal exactly when Piyush will join. Moreover, Padhi even said that bans on all artistes, including comedian Nari Panda, should be lifted. 

"Ban on all the artistes, including Nari Panda and Piyush, should be lifted. Piyush is joining our party with a five-year agreement," said Sanjeev Padhi.

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Meanwhile, Piyush, who had previously announced that he would not participate in the 2025-26 jatra season, is now keeping the doors open. Although his official response is still awaited, just a few days ago, Piyush had requested the Jatra Owners' Association to reconsider their decision.

"I request the Jatra Party Owners' Association to consider my request and all the artistes and take a decision in this regard," said Piyush.

Legal action threatened

On the other hand, Surjyamandir jatra troupe owner Pramod Swain, who had signed a two-year contract with Piyush prior to the recent dispute with Singhabahini, is not backing down. He has said that if Piyush, who is currently on a break for a year, steps into the ring during this period, the consequences will be serious. Swain has even threatened to take legal action.

"With an agreement of two years with us, the contract of Piyush Tripathy with another party is not acceptable. Piyush has not been banned; rather, he has been given rest as per his request. I have the necessary documents, and I will take legal action if required," said Pramod Swain.

Question mark over recent development

Now, the questions are being raised as to what the mystery is behind Padhi's statement at a time when Piyush was given rest as per the decision of the Jatra Owners' Association. Is he really returning to the stage this year, or is this all a deceptive tactic to generate buzz and take advance bookings from the jatra committees by spreading such rumors?