The ‘Dhanu Yatra’ festival began in Bargarh at the Odisha.
Dhanu Yatra
Dhanu Jatra or Dhanu Yatra is an annual drama-based open air theatrical performance celebrated in Bargarh, Odisha
It is world’s largest open air theater, one that finds a mention in the Guinness Book of World Record.
Origin of the festival
The ‘Dhanu Yatra’, which marks the victory of good over evil, came into existence in Bargarh in 1947-48 as part of the celebration of the country’s Independence and is held annually
Performance
It is based on mythological story of Krishna (locally known as Krushna), and his demon uncle Kansa.
Originating in Bargarh, in the present day play, the enactments of the play are being performed in many other places in Western Odisha
The plays start with the dethroning of emperor Ugrasena by the angry prince Kansa, over the marriage of his sister Debaki with Basudeba
It ends with death of Kansa, and Ugrasen restoring back to become the king. There is no written script used in these enactments
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