TV
Confusion shrouded the issue of national recognition to Bali Jatra festival, a prominent cultural event and traditional trade fair in the state of Odisha, following a statement of the minister concerned in the Assembly on Friday.
Also Read: National recognition for Cuttack Bali Jatra, tagged 'National Fair'
A statement in this regard was made by Culture Minister Suryabanshi Suraj, which sparked controversy after he announced in the Assembly that Bali Jatra has not yet been accorded national recognition.
Know why the confusion sparked
This revelation came in response to a query from Congress MLA, Sophia Firdous, seeking clarification on the festival’s recognition status.
The issue is rooted in previous statements reportedly made by the Union Culture Minister, which suggested that national recognition had been granted to the festival. The apparent discrepancy between these statements has led to heated discussions about the festival’s standing.
Minister Suraj stated, “There is currently no such recognition for Bali Jatra.” This statement marks a departure from earlier claims, adding to the ongoing discourse surrounding the festival’s national recognition.
Worth mentioning, Bali Jatra is a festival commemorating the maritime trade and cultural exchange between Odisha and Southeast Asian countries, particularly Bali. The festival attracts millions of visitors.
The term Bali Jatra literally means ‘Voyage to Bali’. Every year, Kartika Purnima marks the day that the seafaring traders departed for the Indonesian islands.
Must Read: Odisha Bali Yatra 2024: Know How Asia's Largest Open Trade Fair Got Its Name
For this festival, the people of Odisha gather in large numbers in colourful attire to celebrate their glorious maritime history. The celebration features grand fairs, elaborate rides, food, and dance. Odia women perform ‘Boita Bandana’, they make boats of paper or banana tree parts with lighted lamps inside and float them down the Mahanadi as a part of the celebrations.
