Bargarh: The western Odisha town of Bargarh is all set to stage 71st edition of the world’s largest open air play, Dhanu Jatra from tomorrow. The 11-day open theatre will showcase the triumph of good over evil and portrayal of the mythological rule of demon king Kansa followed by his demise at the hands of Lord Krishna.
Preparations for the play are in its final legs with the organisers giving last touch to transform the town into the kingdom of King Kansa. Similarly the hamlet of Ambapalli, situated on the outskirts of Bargarh has been completely changed into Gopapura, the home of Lord Krishna, from where he would march to Mathura to slay the tyrannical king.
Construction of King Kansa’s grand palace, his court and Ranga Mahal has been completed.
“Dhanu Jatra is world famous and we are decorating the town with the best of our abilities since many eminent personalities will visit the town during the play,” said a worker Naresh Pandey.
However, the use of a single elephant this year in place of the usual two elephants for the royal entourage of the demon king in the town is likely to be a mood dampener for the audience.
As per reports, King Kansa and his courtiers used to ride on two elephants while taking firsthand account of the public in the town. However, this year, only a single trained elephant could be arranged from Assam which will be used by King Kansa while his ministers will ride camels and horses.
On the other hand, actors including Bhubaneswar Pradhan, who plays King Kansa, his other courtiers, child actors depicting Krishna, Balaram and others are also giving last rehearsals before the commencement of the event.
“The stage is set, as are the horses, camels and elephant. We are eagerly waiting to climb the stage and show our acting skills to the audience,” said Pradhan.
The director of the play, Panchanan Birtia said, “I am sure that all the artistes will perform well in the play as they are fully prepared.”
Jyotiranjan Pradhan, district Collector of Bargarh said, “The preparations are almost complete and we are ready to welcome everyone to come and witness world’s largest open air play here.”