Bargarh: The 11-day Dhanu Yatra Mahotsav in Odisha’s Bargarh, considered to be the world’s biggest open-air theatre, is all set to kick off from Wednesday. The iconic festival brings mythology, tradition and performance together in a unique celebration.
The 78th edition of the world-famous festival, slated to continue till January 3, 2026, is expected to attract a large number of visitors from across the state and beyond.
The entire Bargarh town has been transformed into the mythological land of Mathura, with Amabapali turning into Gopapura, the village where Lord Krishna was raised. The streets of Bargarh are alive with vibrant decorations, including colourful arches and towering stage structures, all set to welcome thousands of visitors who are eager to experience the festival’s magic.
One of the main attractions of the Dhanu yatra is the grand Kansa Durbar, which has been set up in Hatapada. This majestic stage is an enormous 70 feet tall and 120 feet wide, built by 55 skilled artisans. The Kansa Durbar will serve as the central performance venue, recreating scenes from the epic mythological tale of Lord Krishna’s life.
The festival will officially kick off at 7 pm today, with local dignitaries including Bargarh MP Pradeep Purohit and MLA Ashwini Kumar Pradhan set to attend the inaugural ceremony. The Dhanu yatra festival is a unique blend of tradition, drama, and cultural celebration, drawing crowds eager to witness this living enactment of Krishna’s story.
Meanwhile, President Droupadi Murmu has extended greetings to the countrymen, especially the residents of Odisha, on the occasion of the Dhanu Yatra of Bargarh. In a post on X, the President said, this festival holds a unique identity both in India and abroad due to the unparalleled tradition of the grand open-air theatre.
Wishing success for the event, the President expressed the hope that the vivid performances based on mythological tales will foster spiritual consciousness and cultural pride in society.
