Bargarh: Dhanu Yatra, considered to be the world’s largest open-air theatre, will begin from January 3 next year. During the preparatory meeting chaired by Bargarh Collector Aditya Goyal a decision was taken on the schedule for the Yatra. The Yatra will continue for 11 days and conclude on January 13, 2025.
The entire Bargarh town is decked up as Mathura whereas Ambapali village turns into mythological Gopapura for the drama-based open-air theatrical performance. The residents of Bargarh have been organising the festival since 1947.
The nearby Jeera river is considered as Yamuna during Dhanu Yatra. Above all, every resident of Bargarh are considered as the subjects of demon king Kansa during the annual festival.
The Dhanu Yatra Committee conducts auditions to select artistes to essay several mythological characters like Lord Krishna, Lord Balaram, Sriradha, King Kansa, Akrura, Nanda and Jasoda. Several episodes related to the childhood of Lord Krishna and Lord Balaram are meticulously enacted by these artistes.
The meeting also discussed the income and expenditure of the last year’s Yatra and the budget for the coming year. The committee members submitted their suggestions for further improvement in arrangements for the visitors to the town to participate in the Dhanu Yatra.
Dhanu Yatra is based on Krishna Leela and will showcase the mythological story of Krishna and his uncle Kansa. During the Yatra, Bargarh transforms into Mathura. River Jeera symbolically represents river Yamuna and Ambapali, which is located on the other side of the river Jeera, turns into Gopapur.
Kansa is the central character of Dhanu Yatra and its theme is borrowed from ‘Krishna Leela’ and ‘Mathura Vijay’. A Raj Darbar (royal court) for King Kansa as well as a Rangamahal are constructed where the actors entertain spectators with their performances. Stage actor Hrusikesh Bhoi will play the pivotal role of King Kansa in the Yatra.