Bargarh: The world’s largest open-air theatre, Dhanu Yatra, is scheduled to begin on December 24, 2025, and will conclude on January 3, 2026.
The schedule for the festival was finalised at a meeting held in Bargarh on Monday, chaired by Sub-Collector Prasanna Kumar Pande. Senior district officials, members of the Dhanu Yatra Committee, and local leaders participated in the meeting to review preparations.
Based on the episodes of Krishna Leela, the Dhanu Yatra festival reenacts the mythological story of Lord Krishna and his uncle Kansa. As part of the tradition, Bargarh town transforms into Mathura, while the Jeera River symbolically represents the Yamuna. Ambapali, located across the river, becomes Gopapur during the festival.
A ‘Subha Stambha’—a sacred pillar—has been installed on the banks of the Jeera River, marking the beginning of festival preparations.
According to Sub-Collector Pande, the residents are enthusiastic and large crowds have already begun gathering in anticipation of the event.
“The upcoming ‘Dhanu Yatra’ will draw huge numbers of visitors. Just like last year, the festival will be beautifully decorated, and this time we are planning additional features to make it even more special. The ‘Dhanu Yatra’ Committee is working collectively to introduce new elements while preserving the tradition,” Pande told the media.
With only weeks to go, officials and organisers are working in coordination to ensure a grand and smooth celebration of the iconic festival.
