Bargarh Dhanu Jatra, the world’s largest open-air theatre, is spread across a 6 km radius area around Bargarh town and Ambapali village. The festival is based on the mythological story of Lord Krishna and his uncle Kansa that continues for 11 days.

During Dhanu Jatra, Bargarh town, Ambapali village and river Jeera turn into Mathura, Gopapura and river Yamuna respectively. Surprisingly, the geographical area of Bargarh town and Ambapali village is similar to that of Mathura and Vrindavan.

An interesting feature of this festival is that all people including the local residents and visitors participate in this drama with all emotions.

Ambapali village that is situated on the other side of river Jeera travels back to Dwapara Yuga during this festival. The people of this village witness the important episodes of Lord Krishna’s childhood.

Prior to the festival, the residents of Ambapali make all the preparations. They paint their houses beautifully. Wall paintings depicting several stories of Lord Krishna adorn the streets of Ambapali.

During Dhanu Jatra, devotees witness Krishna Leela in the village. The drama is so lively that people get emotionally attached to it. They worship the two children playing the roles of Lord Krishna and brother Balaram with reverence. The entire atmosphere of Ambapali village turns divine. During this festival, the villagers neither cook nor consume non-vegetarian food items. The villagers get immersed in devotional chants and dances. During Dhanu Jatra, a visitor to this village can experience a spiritual awakening.

Krittika Satpathy
Bargarh

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