Berhampur Thakurani Yatra is a post-harvest festival

Ghata Parikrama in the evening hours

The origin of Berhampur Thakurnai Yatra can be traced back to 240 years, the date of migration of weaver Debanga community to Mahuri State sometime between 1772 and 1782. But the Yatra achieved its gaiety only during the post-independence period in the last century.

            Though Berhampur developed as a trading centre, flourishing of Gopalpur Port during the late nineteenth century, rail connectivity during the earlier part of twentieth century and expansion of goods transportation through national highway during the post-independence period became instrumental for expansion of trade and commerce in the city. Growth of business activities in Berhampur is directly connected with pomp and ceremony during Thakurnai Yatra. Because, grand decoration, erection of Raths and Kalakunjas are sponsored by the local people, mainly businessmen.  

            Berhampur Thakurani Yatra is a post-harvest festival. The rural setting neighbouring Berhampur solely depends on agricultural income. After monsoon harvest summer is the perfect time for making purchases of household goods. Due to lack of efficient connectivity the rural population were unable to travel to Berhampur frequently during the pre and post-independence period of last century. Thakurani Yatra provided an occasion for the ruralfolk to visit the festival and make purchases including gold, silver ornaments, brassware and clothing etc. The local traders had enough reason to contribute to make the Yatra colourful to attract more and more visitors who turned to be prospective buyers of goods from their shops.

            But the scene has changed during past few years. Sub-urban commuters frequent to Berhampur on daily basis and the purchasing pattern of consumers have changed considerably. With popularisation of television advertising, mega stores and mall culture ruralfolk no longer wait for fairs and festivals for purchases.

            Debangas were weavers and their silk textile made Berhampur famous throughout Odisha. In the past the Yatra festivity created an opportunity to advertise their products among prospective buyers. In present times silk textile has turned to be an endangered handicraft.

            In due course of time, particularly during past two decades with spread of globalization, Berhampur Thakurnai Yatra has gathered a renewed momentum. Carnivals all over the world encourage creativity. It has been observed during the Yatra of 2011 that more and more local people are getting emotionally linked to the festivity. For example, free distribution of snacks to visitors of Yatra beginning from Girija Square to Big Bazar during the last few days of Yatra may be considered as the replication of similar activities undertaken by people of Mumbai during flood of 2006 and elsewhere broadcast by television. One can locate many such incidents. We may have to wait a little time for a ‘flash dance’ performance during the Yatra by the local youth engineered through social media!

PHOTOGRAPH BY: Laxmi Bej