Bhubaneswar, December 24: President Droupadi Murmu on Wednesday extended greetings to the countrymen, especially the residents of Odisha, as the world-famous ‘Dhanu Yatra’ commenced in Bargarh district.

Taking to ‘X’, the President said, this festival holds a unique identity both in India and abroad due to the unparalleled tradition of the grand open-air theatre.

“Wishing for the successful organisation of the procession, the President expressed hope that the vivid performances based on mythological tales will foster spiritual consciousness and cultural pride in society,” wrote the President.

"I hope that through the vibrant presentation of mythological stories, spiritual consciousness and cultural pride in society will be further nurtured. I extend my best wishes for the successful organisation of this colourful journey," the President further wrote.

The Dhanu Jatra marks the start of an 11-day cultural spectacle at Bargarh. Recognised as the largest open-air theatre in the world, the festival brings mythology, tradition and performance together in a unique celebration.

The festival, based on Lord Krishna’s ‘Mathura Vijay’ in which the Lord defeats his uncle King Kansha, is celebrated across an 8 km radius in Bargarh municipality area and adjoining localities.

As the town celebrates the festival, entire Bargarh gets decked up as Mathura while nearby Ambapali village turns into mythological Gopapura. The Jeera River, located close to Bargarh, is considered as Yamuna during Dhanu Yatra.

The people of Bargarh consider themselves as the subjects of demon king Kansa during the festival, which has been held since 1947.