Cuttack: The iconic Bali Jatra, celebrating Odisha’s rich maritime legacy, was inaugurated today by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, alongside Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida. The grand event, held along the Mahanadi riverbanks, has expanded its appeal this year with international participation and innovative attractions.
Spread across 32 acres, the fair features over 2,500 stalls and has drawn attention from diplomats representing 13 countries. Cultural performances by artists from eight nations have added a global dimension to the festival, emphasizing Odisha’s historical ties with Southeast Asia.
A standout attraction is the Southeast Asia Pavilion, offering a glimpse into Odisha’s ancient maritime connections with regions like Java, Sumatra, Bali, and Indonesia. Adding to the spectacle is a drone show that lights up the skies over the river, narrating Odisha’s history and celebrating its legendary figures.
This year’s Bali Jatra also focuses on reviving cultural pride through the “Cuttack-in-Cuttack” initiative, which pays homage to Odia cinema’s golden era. A specially curated poster gallery showcases classics like Sita Bibaha, Hiraleela, and Gapa Helebi Sata. Visitors can enjoy screenings of vintage films in an amphitheater while reliving iconic dialogues and songs that shaped Odisha’s cinematic heritage.
The festival boasts a star-studded lineup, featuring performances by Bollywood legends Sonu Nigam, Suresh Wadekar, and Anup Jalota, as well as popular Ollywood artists like Asima Panda, Mantu Chhuria, and Deeptirekha Padhi. Two prominent stages—Baishnaba Pani and Akshay Mohanty—will host these cultural spectacles, blending tradition with modern entertainment.
Chief Minister Majhi expressed pride in the festival’s evolution, stating, “Bali Jatra is a testament to Odisha’s vibrant culture and maritime history. This year, we have successfully merged heritage with global appeal, making it a celebration of our past and a driver of economic and cultural exchange.”
With its diverse offerings, Bali Jatra 2024 promises to be a memorable celebration for locals and visitors alike, honoring Odisha’s storied heritage while embracing a global future.
