Bargarh Dhanu Jatra’s 79-year legacy captured in new documentary .

BHUBANESWAR,04/10(PPT): A 52-minute documentary capturing the history, traditions and cultural grandeur of Bargarh Dhanu Jatra was screened at a special event in Bhubaneswar on Saturday. The film traces the 79-year journey of the festival, regarded as one of the world’s largest open-air theatre festivals, and showcases its performances, rituals and community participation based on the legendary narrative of Lord Krishna and King Kansa. Bargarh MP Pradip Purohit attended the screening as chief guest, while actor Anu Choudhury and Sureshwar Satapathy, secretary of the Dhanujatra Mahotsava Samiti, were special invitees. Artists, government officials, intellectuals, media professionals and representatives from the fields of art, literature and culture also attended the event. The documentary’s official poster was unveiled on the occasion, while generations of artists, performers, organisers and cultural practitioners associated with the festival were acknowledged for their contribution.
Mr. Purohit appreciated the initiative to document the festival’s cultural legacy and said such efforts would help preserve its history for future generations and introduce Dhanu Jatra to audiences beyond Odisha. Bhubaneswar Pradhan, who portrayed Maharaj Kansa in several editions of the festival, including 1998-2000, 2017-2020 and 2025, was specially honoured. Several senior artists, child artistes, directors and members associated with the documentary were also felicitated. Directed by Suresh Patnaik, the documentary was co-produced by Pranati Parida. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Bhabani Prasad Mahanty. The documentary has since been made available digitally for audiences in India and abroad.