Cuttack: The historic Bali Jatra, celebrating Odisha’s rich maritime heritage, was inaugurated today by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, accompanied by Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida. The Chief Minister also toured the expansive fair, which has drawn international attention this year.
Spread over 32 acres across the upper and lower grounds, this year’s Bali Jatra features over 2,500 stalls and a host of new attractions aimed at making the event a global spectacle. Diplomats from 13 countries have been invited, and cultural performances by artists from eight nations are set to add an international flair.
A special pavilion dedicated to Southeast Asia has become a major highlight, providing insights into Odisha’s historical maritime connections with regions like Java, Sumatra, Bali, and Indonesia. Visitors can also witness a mesmerizing drone show over the river, showcasing the history and great personalities of Odisha.
To revive cultural pride, the fair has introduced Cuttack-in-Cuttack, which offers a nostalgic journey through Odia cinema. A poster gallery featuring classic Odia films like Sita Bibaha, Hiraleela, Gapa Helebi Sata, and Chinha Achinha has been set up, along with an amphitheater screening vintage films. Visitors can also enjoy iconic Odia film dialogues and songs.
The cultural extravaganza includes performances by Bollywood stars Sonu Nigam, Suresh Wadekar, and Anup Jalota, as well as popular Ollywood artists like Asima Panda, Mantu Chhuria, and Deeptirekha Padhi on the Baishnaba Pani and Akshay Mohanty stages.
Chief Minister Majhi expressed pride in the event’s efforts to blend Odisha’s heritage with modern attractions, making Bali Jatra not just a celebration of the past but also a platform for entertainment and economic activity.
