In News:

The President of India, Droupadi Murmu, recently extended greetings to the nation, especially to the people of Odisha, on the occasion of the historic Baliyatra festival and Boita Bandana. She described Baliyatra as a symbol of Odisha’s glorious maritime commercial tradition and rich cultural heritage, inspiring citizens to draw strength from the past to build a developed nation.

About Baliyatra Festival

• Location: Cuttack, Odisha
• Time of Celebration: Annually on Kartika Purnima (full moon day of Kartika month)
• Literal Meaning: Bali Jatra means “Voyage to Bali”

The festival marks the day when ancient Kalingan seafaring traders (Sadhabas) set sail for distant lands across the Bay of Bengal.

Historical Significance

Baliyatra commemorates Odisha’s over 2,000-year-old maritime and trade links between ancient Kalinga (present-day Odisha) and regions of South and Southeast Asia, including:

• Bali
• Java
• Sumatra
• Borneo
• Burma (Myanmar)
• Ceylon (Sri Lanka)

These voyages played a vital role in spreading Indian culture, language, religion, art, and trade networks, making Kalinga one of the most prosperous maritime powers of ancient India.

Cultural Practices and Celebrations

• Boita Bandana: Women float small boats (boitas) made of paper, banana leaf, or sholapith, with lighted lamps, on rivers—especially the Mahanadi—to honour the ancient sailors.
• Festivities:
  • Large fairs and exhibitions
  • Folk dance and music
  • Traditional food and craft stalls
  • Cultural performances reflecting Odisha’s heritage

The festival celebrates the courage, navigational expertise, and commercial acumen of Kalinga’s sailors.