“I Pushed My Physical Limits to Portray Jaga” — Devasis Patra

Devasis Patra, an actor who has been an integral part of the Odia film industry for over two decades, has carved a special place for himself with his versatile performances in films like Sahid Raghu Sardar, Katak, Dear Purusha, Kalia Karuchi Leela, and several others. Known for bringing depth and authenticity to his characters, Devasis continues to explore challenging roles that leave a lasting impression on audiences.
With his latest release Ganda Bhairav, the actor takes on another fascinating character, Jaga, a role that demanded both emotional intensity and a remarkable physical transformation. Directed by Sudhanshu Mohan Sahoo and produced by Ramesh Barik, the film features Devasis Patra along with Sivani Sangita, Ananya Mishra, KK, and others.

The film traces Jaga’s emotional and spiritual journey as a devotee connected with the Jagannath Temple, exploring themes of love, loss, redemption, and devotion, culminating in a deeply uplifting experience.

In a conversation with Odia Celebrity, Devasis Patra opens up about Ganda Bhairav, the challenges behind preparing for the role, his physical transformation involving significant weight gain and loss, and his thoughts on the evolving landscape of Odia cinema.

You have played several memorable roles over the years, but Jaga in Ganda Bhairav is being described as one of your most demanding performances. What made this character so special?

Jaga is a very challenging and unique character because I portray him from the age of 30 to 60. For this role, I underwent a major physical transformation, including gaining and losing weight to suit different phases of the character’s life. Jagu works at the Jagannath Temple and carries Lord Jagannath’s sacred Abhada on his shoulders. The character is deeply connected with devotion and emotions. It is a touching Odia drama that showcases his life-changing journey through love, loss, redemption, and faith.

Your extraordinary physical transformation for Ganda Bhairav has become a talking point. What was the toughest challenge you faced during that journey, both physically and mentally?

It was a very challenging experience because gaining and losing weight within a short period is not easy. I gained around 20 kg in 90 days and then lost nearly 20 kg in about 80 days for the requirements of the role. The transformation was physically and mentally demanding, but I believe such dedication helps an actor get closer to the character and deliver a more convincing performance. I hope the audience appreciates and showers love on Jagu and the film.

From Katak and Dear Purusha to Lahari and now Ganda Bhairav, your film choices have largely been performance-driven. Is choosing meaningful characters a conscious decision?
I always try to be part of good films and portray meaningful characters. I believe an actor should focus on quality rather than quantity. That is why I carefully choose my roles and prefer doing one film a year that challenges me and allows me to explore different shades of performance.

You have received the Odisha State Film Awards and have also been part of a National Award-winning film. At this stage of your career, what matters more to you—awards, box office success, or the love of the audience?

Awards are definitely a great honour and recognition for an actor’s work, but the love and acceptance of the audience matter the most. When people connect with a character and remember a performance, that is the biggest reward for an artist.

The Odia film industry is witnessing a new wave of original storytelling. Do you believe films like Lahari and Ganda Bhairav can help Odia cinema gain greater national recognition?

In recent times, the Odia film industry has been creating some very good films with strong stories and meaningful performances. I would like to tell those who feel Odia cinema is not doing well that they should watch these films first before forming an opinion.

There is a lot of talent and creativity in our industry, and films like Lahari and Ganda Bhairav can definitely help Odia cinema reach a wider audience.