November 28, 2023/ 8:25 AM IST: Bali Yatra, also known as the “Voyage to Bali”, is celebrated every year on the last day of Kartika Purnima to celebrate the glorious maritime history of Odisha. This fair is one of the largest fairs in Odisha which starts from November 27, 2023, to December 4, 2023.

About Bali Yatra:

Bali Yatra is a seven-day open-trade fair that starts on the last day of Kartika Purnima, also known as “Boita Bandanna”. The fair is officiated on the bank of river Mahanadi, located in the Cuttack district of Odisha. The celebration of Bali Yatra is to recall the maritime legacy of Kalinga (now Odisha) sailors in ancient times. This seven-day fair celebration symbolises the strong historical ties between Odisha and South-East Asia.

Apart from culture and history, Bali Yatra brings a great opportunity for traders, artisans, and several self-help groups to showcase their products. More than 1000 stalls were allocated by the district administration for the fair. Whatever people purchase in the fair from electronic appliances to mobile, is sold at low prices. It profits the businesses more than Rs. 100 crores. Moreover, people come to relish foods and cultural performances from folk as well as classical dance.

History:

Bali Yatra, also known as “Voyage to Bali” tracks down over 2000-year-old maritime superpower and cultural links of Kalinga (now Odisha) with other South-East Asian countries like Bali, Burma (Myanmar), Ceylon (Sri-Lanka), Java and others. The skilled Odia sailors, known as Sadhaba, ventured on the entire Indian Ocean to deliver goods and services along with cultural vibrancy.

Commercial Significance:

The celebration of the Bali Yatra is to honour the expertise and skills of the Odia marine for making Kalinga one of the prosperous and wealthy empires of the early times.

Earlier, popular items of trade were camphor, cardamom, cinnamon, pepper, sandalwood, gold and jewellery, exported to the south-east Asian countries.

Currently, Bali Yatra, helping boost the local businesses of Odisha. People from other states and Odisha put their stalls at the fair. Things like souvenirs, handicrafts, art crafts, were showcased at the fair for the public. It generates an ample amount of revenue and stimulates local and retail businesses. Along with that, it promotes the cultural heritage of Odisha.

How Kalinga is connected with south-east Asia?

In ancient times, the Kalinga empire was known for its maritime glory. The geographical location and famous ports, allowed India to connect with other Southeast countries and make ally with them.

Large boats called as ‘Boita’ were constructed to do trading via the Kalinga Sea (now Bay of Bengal).

However, the Kalinga mostly traded with Bali (an island in Indonesia) due to cultural connection, linguistic parallels, and food habits. The similarity between Kalinga and Bali shows real proof of connectivity between the two places.

This year, a 35-ft high and 100-ft wide sand sculpture of a boat fitted with colourful lights will be the main centre of attraction of the magnificent fair, Bali Yatra.