Raja Artatran Deo (1900-1946), the erstwhile ruler of the kingdom of Khariar (
Nuapada District), was a famous patron of art, culture and education. He was also an eminent politician and sportsman.
Raja Artatran Deo ascended the throne in 1921. Under his leadership, the kingdom of Khariar merged with the state of Orissa in 1936. He was elected as the member of the Orissa Legislative Assembly in 1937 and 1946.
Raja Artatran Deo supported the education of the students of merit by sponsoring their scholarship for higher education. He supported the Beer Bikram Theatre of Khariar, which became the first permanent
Oriya stage.
