Argus News - Bargarh Gears Up For Dhanu Yatra, Artist Auditions To Begin From November 15

Bargarh, Nov 12: .The grand open-air theatrical spectacle, Bargarh Dhanu Yatra, is set to commence on December 24, 2025, and will continue for 11 days, concluding on January 3, 2026.

Recognised as one of the largest open-air festivals in India, Dhanu Yatra reenacts episodes from the life of Lord Krishna and the tyrannical reign of King Kansa.

This year, the festival committee will begin artist selection from November 15, with auditions scheduled for various key roles including Kansa, Devaki, Narada, Chanura, Mushtik, Sarthaki, Vasudeva, Akrura, Ugrasen, Mahamantri, and Senapati.

The selection process will be held over three days, from November 15 to 17, at the Biju Patnaik Town Hall premises in Bargarh.

Specific roles will be auditioned on designated dates:

- November 15: Devaki, Narada, Chanura, Mushtik, Sarthaki, Vasudeva, Akrura, Ugrasen

- November 16: Chief Minister and Army Commander

- November 17: Final interview with King Kansa

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A total of 291 artists will participate in the selection process, with role-specific numbers as follows:

- Kansa: 44

- Chief Minister: 33

- Army Commander: 74

- Devaki: 14

- Narada: 20

- Chanura: 17

- Sarthaki: 10

- Mushtik: 18

- Vasudeva: 30

- Akrura: 20

- Ugrasen: 11

Applicants have already submitted their interest, and those auditioning are expected to report to the venue by 9:30 AM on their respective dates. The Dhanu Yatra Festival Committee Secretary, Sureshwar Satapathy, confirmed that candidates will be notified via phone regarding their audition schedule.

The Dhanu Yatra is not just a cultural celebration but a living tradition that transforms Bargarh into Mathura, with the entire town participating in the theatrical retelling of mythological events.