Bargarh Gears Up for Dhanu Yatra 2025: World’s Largest Open-Air Theatre Returns December 24

Bargarh, Odisha — The iconic Dhanu Yatra Mahotsav, hailed as the world’s largest open-air theatre, is set to captivate audiences once again from December 24, 2025 to January 3, 2026. The announcement came after a high-level planning meeting chaired by District Collector Aditya Goyal, who also heads the Dhanu Yatra Mahotsav Committee.

This year’s edition promises grandeur and authenticity, with organizers emphasizing fair selection of performers, especially for the pivotal role of Kansa, the mythological antagonist. The festival reenacts the tale of Lord Krishna, transforming Bargarh into Mathura and Ambapali into Gopapur, turning the entire town into a living stage.

To manage the expected influx of lakhs of visitors, authorities are prioritizing crowd control, law enforcement, and surveillance systems. Local businesses, artisans, and hospitality services are preparing for a surge in demand, while cultural groups from across Odisha and neighboring states gear up to perform.

Dhanu Yatra is more than a spectacle—it’s a celebration of the triumph of good over evil, deeply rooted in Odisha’s cultural heritage. Residents and tourists alike become part of the narrative, blurring the line between performer and audience.

Preparations are in full swing, and officials urge citizens to cooperate and maintain discipline to ensure a safe and memorable experience.