Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government will organise its first-ever boat race, ‘Mahanadi Boita Pratiyogita 2025’, near the venue of the ongoing Baliyatra in Cuttack district to celebrate the state’s rich maritime heritage.
The two-day event, scheduled to begin on November 11, will feature men’s and women’s teams from 10 states, including Odisha. The highlight of the competition will be the Fly Boat Race, which is expected to offer a thrilling experience for spectators along the Mahanadi river near Gadagadia Ghata.
According to the schedule, Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida will inaugurate the event at 11:45 am on the opening day. The races will continue on the second day from 8 am to 4 pm.
Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati will felicitate the winners during a ceremony at the Gana Kabi Baishnaba Pani Manch on the concluding day of the event.
The boat race coincides with the historic Baliyatra, which commemorates the courage and enterprise of ancient Odia sailors, ‘Sadhavas,’ who undertook long sea voyages for trade and cultural exchange across Southeast Asia.
