Odisha: Bargarh 76th Dhanuyatra Festival Begins: Celebrating Krishna Leela

The world-famous Bargarh 76th Dhanuyatra began in Odisha today and will continue till the 25th of this month. The Dhanuyatra, which marks the victory of good over evil, came into existence in Bargarh in 1947-48 as a part of the celebration of the country’s Independence and is held annually.

The festival is based on Krishna Leela and will showcase the mythological story of Krishna and his maternal uncle Kansa. With the commencement of the festival, Bargarh becomes King Kansa’s Mathura, and Ambapali, located about eight km away, becomes Gopapura, where Lord Krishna is said to have spent his childhood.

The Jeera River, which flows between the two places, becomes the Yamuna River. The festival will conclude with the death of demon king Kansa and the restoration of the throne to Ugrasen. This year, Hrushikesh Bhoi is playing the role of King Kansa.