World-famous Bargarh Dhanu Yatra to begin on December 24; check details

The much-anticipated Dhanu Yatra of Bargarh—billed as the world’s largest open-air theatre—will be held this year from December 24 to January 3, 2026, transforming the entire town into a mythological stage for 11 days, sources said on Monday.

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The official dates were finalised in a dedicated meeting held by the Dhanu Yatra Mahotsav Committee, chaired by Bargarh district Collector Aditya Goyal, who also serves as the event president. The date announcement followed unanimous discussions on logistics and cultural planning.

This year, new actors will be selected to play demon king Kansa, his ministers, and other central characters—injecting fresh energy into the age-old tradition. However, well-known actor Hrushikesh Bhoi, who has been surrounded by controversy in recent times, will not be included in the Kansa selection process this year.

The Bargarh town will once again come alive with dramatic reenactments of Krishna Leela and the legendary showdown between Krishna and Kansa, drawing massive crowds and cultural enthusiasts from across the country and outside.

“First preparatory meeting of the Bargarh Dhanu Yatra was held today. Both the Advisory Committee and Executive Committee members took part in the meeting. Discussion centred on the selection of new artistes,” District Collector Goyal said.

“A five-member jury committee will be formed by the cultural advisory committee, led by the ADM. We will invite applications by giving a 15-day notice period, and the criteria for selection will be done in a transparent manner,” the Collector stated.

“The juries in turn will select the artistes for Dhanu Yatra,” the Collector added.

Reported By: Dharmadatta