Sambalpur, Dec. 27: Preparations are on in full swing for the Dhanu yatra, the 11-day long theatre festival, which will be held in Bargarh from January 2 to12.

Dhanu yatra is considered the world's largest open-air theatre festival. During the festival, Bargarh transforms into the ancient city of Mathura, while river Jeera becomes the Yamuna. Amapali, which is located on the outskirts of Bargarh and on the other side of river Jeera, turns into Gopapura during the festival.

The festival begins with the coronation of King Kansa and concludes with his death. The tyrannical rule of King Kansa, his death and the exploits of Lord Krishna are enacted during the festival.

"The work on erecting the stages has already begun. The rehearsals for the enactments during the festival are also on in full swing. While 75 artistes will perform at Mathura, 45 will perform at Gopapura," said co-convener of the Dhanu Yatra organising committee Sureswar Satpathy.

Hrusikesh Bhoi will play the role of King Kansa, Artatrana Mohapatra that of Maharaj Ugrasen and Pradeep Panda will play the Mahamantri of King Kansa.

Satpathy said around Rs 50 lakh would be spent on the festival this time.

"Around 3,000 artistes of 120 cultural troupes from across the country will perform at Rajdurbar and Rangamahal during the festival. A cultural troupe from Russia will also perform," he added.

Dhanu Yatra was organised for the first time in 1947-48 to celebrate Independence Day. The festival aims to mark the victory of good over evil.

"Unlike previous years, the festival will be organised for 11 days at Gopapura as well. Earlier, the festival was organised for 11 days at Mathura and for five days in Gopapura. A decision has also been taken to perform alati along the Jeera river every evening during the festival this time. People will gather along the river and perform alati," said the festival organising committee member of Gopapura, Surendra Hota.