The Odisha government has announced a major financial boost for one of its most iconic cultural spectacles. The state's Department of Odia Language, Literature, and Culture will provide a substantial grant of Rs 1 crore for the promotion and preservation of the Dhanu Jatra in Bargarh. This festival is renowned globally as the world's largest open-air theatre event.
A Grand Celebration of Mythology
Dhanu Jatra is a massive theatrical enactment of the mythological story of Lord Krishna and his tyrannical uncle, King Kansa. For eleven days, the entire town of Bargarh transforms into the ancient city of Mathura. The Ambapali area becomes Gopapur, and the local Jira river is symbolically revered as the Yamuna. This immersive experience draws thousands of visitors and participants each year.
Culture Minister Suryabanshi Suraj made the significant announcement, confirming that the festival is scheduled to run from December 24 to January 3. Beyond the core grant, the department will also support the artists who bring the epic to life. A total of 200 artistes will receive an honorarium of Rs 10,000 each for their participation.
Ambitious Plans for Wider Reach
Minister Suraj stated that this year's Dhanu Jatra will be celebrated on a grander scale, with several initiatives aimed at promoting the festival beyond Odisha's borders. A key strategy involves leveraging technology to broadcast the event. The Directorate of Odisha Paribar will facilitate the live-streaming of the entire 11-day festival in other states using LED screens.
To enhance the visitor experience and accessibility, the government has planned a multi-faceted approach:
- Special Dhanu Jatra-themed welcome gates will be installed at major entry points to Bargarh town.
- Special tourist buses will be operated from Bhubaneswar and Puri to Bargarh for the festival duration.
- A dedicated website will provide comprehensive information on traffic, parking, and venue details, along with integrated GPS-based navigation support.
- To engage younger audiences, a digital quiz will be hosted on the website to create awareness, and participants will receive digital certificates.
Ensuring a Smooth and Safe Festival
Minister Suraj directed officials to ensure the event's smooth hosting, with a strong emphasis on public safety and convenience. He stressed the importance of robust arrangements for security, fire safety, sanitation, and emergency medical services. Overall administrative coordination will be crucial to managing the large-scale event seamlessly.
This substantial investment and detailed planning underscore the state's commitment to safeguarding and promoting its intangible cultural heritage. Dhanu Jatra is not just a festival; it represents the glorious journey of Odisha's rich culture and heritage, and the government is determined to share this legacy with a wider audience, both within India and potentially across the world.
