After a Covid-induced hiatus of two years, the Millennium City of Cuttack is all set to host the annual Bali Yatra in a grand manner this year from November 8, the full moon day of the Hindu month of Kartika (Kartika Purnima). The event will continue till November 16 (Wednesday). Even though the fair remains open day and night, visitors throng the site in evening and indulge themselves in shopping late into night. The yatra is famous for its food and delicacies.
Etymologically, Bali Yatra means 'Voyage to Bali'. Kartika Purnima marks the day when the ancient seafaring Kalingan traders departed for the Indonesian islands for business. For this festival, people of Odisha gather in large numbers in colourful attire to celebrate their glorious maritime history. Ta'poi is closely associated with this festival, which recalls traditional memories of young maidens waiting for the return of their sailor brothers from Bali.
