Bhubaneswar: Renowned puppeteer Padma Shri Maguni Charan Kuanr passed away at the age of 88 after battling a prolonged illness at his residence in Keonjhar.

As per reports, he was recently admitted to the Keonjhar District Headquarters Hospital due to age-related health issues.

Kuanr was honoured with the Padma Shri award in 2023 by President Droupadi Murmu. He was recognized for his efforts in promoting and preserving Odisha's traditional rod puppet dance form.