Maguni Charan Kuanr

Maguni Charan Kuanr (12 February 1937 – 1 June 2024) was an Indian puppeteer known for promoting rod puppetry, traditionally known as Kandhei Nach in the state of Odisha.

In 2023, Kuanr was conferred the Padma Shri, the fourth-highest civilian honour by the Government of India for promoting and propagating the traditional rod-puppet dance form of Odisha. Earlier in 2004, he had been conferred with the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award.

Early life Born on 2 February 1937 in Keonjhar, Odisha, Shri Maguni Charan Kuanr came from a family of traditional puppeteers. He was introduced to the art of Kandhei Nach, which uses rod puppets, by his father, Shri Baishnab Charan Kuanr.

Like many traditional puppeteers, he created his puppets, designed the costumes, and narrated the plays performed.

Death Kuanr died in Keonjhar, Odisha, on 1 June 2024, at the age of 87.

Awards and honours Padma Shri Sangeet Natak Akademi Award Kabi Surya Upendra Bhanja Award, the highest award of Odisha Sangeet Natak Akademi