Dhanu Yatra Open-Air Theater Scene

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Technical Data

Stamp Set Cultural Heritage of Western Odisha
Date of Issue February 20, 2024
Denomination Rs. 5
Quantity 111,000
Perforation Harrow14½
Printer Security Printing Press, Hyderabad
Printing Process Wet Offset
Watermark No Watermark
Colors Multicolor
Credit (Designed By) Sh. Sankha Samanta
Catalog Codes

Michel IN 3995

Colnect codes IN 2024.02.20-04e

Themes

Cultural Heritage of Western Odisha Stamp: A Tribute to Tradition

The Department of Posts has issued a special set of commemorative postage stamp honoring the cultural heritage of Western Odisha—a land where Aryan, Dravidian, and Adivasi traditions converge. These stamps capture the soul of Odisha, highlighting its festivals, art, crafts, and folk culture that continue to shape the identity of the region.

Dhanu Yatra – The World’s Largest Open-Air Theatre

Dhanu Yatra, held in Bargarh, Odisha, is celebrated as the world’s largest open-air theatre and was accorded National Festival status in 2014. Unique in its presentation, the festival unfolds without a written script, as thousands of participants and the entire town come together to recreate the divine saga of Lord Krishna’s life—from his birth and childhood to the dramatic slaying of the demon king Kansa.

During the Yatra, the town of Bargarh transforms into Mathura, with every street, marketplace, and household becoming part of the grand performance. This living theatre of faith and devotion immerses both participants and visitors in an awe-inspiring cultural experience, blending mythology, community participation, and artistic brilliance on an unparalleled scale.

First Day Cover