Odia jatra actor Piyush Tripathy returns advance amount, says would take one year’s break

Bhubaneswar: Noted Odia jatra actor Piyush Tripathy, who landed in controversy for allegedly taking advance amount from two jatra troupes, reportedly returned the money.

A meeting of the Jatra Owners’ Association was held today at a private hotel in Bhubaneswar, in which Piyush Tripathy appeared before them to solve his ongoing controversy and returned the advance amount.

Sources said that Piyush Tripathy returned Rs 60 lakh to the owner of Surya Mandira and Rs 55 lakh to Singhabahini’s owner.

While speaking to the media persons after attending the meeting of the Jatra Owners’ Association, Piyush Tripathy said, “A small thing became so big and as controversy continued, the Jatra Owners’ Association had to arrange a meeting to solve the issue. The advance amount I had received from two different troupes has been returned to the owners.”

“In order to solve this problem, for the due respect of the jatra troupe owners and due to my health and family issues, I have decided not to join any jatra party for this year (2025-26). I will stay at home. I myself will pay the EMI of the car,” he added.

Piyush further said, “They have not banned me but I have decided to stay at home due to my health and family issues. However, I will work if get offer for films as I am an artiste and acting is my passion.”