Dhanu Yatra is an 11-day festival in Bargarh, held around the month of Pausha (December–January). The whole town becomes a stage for the story of Lord Krishna and his uncle, King Kansa.
Bargarh turns into Mathura, the river Jira becomes the Yamuna and the village of Ambapali becomes Gopa. The actor playing Kansa rules the town during the festival, and the story ends with Kansa’s defeat.
Travel tips
- Book a stay in Bargarh or Sambalpur early.
- Follow the procession routes for the best scenes.
