Bhagabat Tungi brings Odia culture and devotion to centre-stage in Cuttack Bali Yatra

The historic Cuttack Bali Yatra, known for its vibrant mix of trade, entertainment, and tradition, is witnessing a unique devotional addition this year, with the Bhagabat Tungi. Amidst the bustling lanes of the fair, filled with lights, stalls, and laughter, this serene corner has become a magnet for devotees and visitors alike.

Organised for the first time by the Odia Language, Literature and Culture Department, the Tungi has reintroduced an age-old Odia custom of evening Bhagabata recitations, merging spirituality with celebration. The initiative aims to revive devotional traditions while adding cultural depth to the annual riverfront festival.

Devotional Interlude Amid Festivity

In earlier times, Bhagabat Tungis were integral to Odia villages, where people gathered in the evenings to listen to religious verses and moral tales.

Today, as such traditions fade, the presence of one within Bali Yatra’s lively grounds has rekindled nostalgia and faith among the crowd. Situated amidst rows of stalls selling local crafts and delicacies, the Tungi radiates calm with continuous recitations of the Bhagabata Purana and devotional songs in praise of Lord Jagannath.

Visitors often pause their shopping and conversations to stand and listen, drawn by the sound of prayer and the sight of lamps flickering in the evening air.

“The push for showcasing Odia language and culture during the Bali Yatra is a very welcome step from the Odisha government. Over a lakh people visit the fair and throng here in the spirit of our culture and Lord Jagannath,” said the priest at the tungi.

The initiative, he added, represents a conscious attempt to blend faith with festivities, reinforcing the Odia identity that the Bali Yatra has long symbolised.

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Devotees find peace in the Word

Visitors say the experience offers a rare moment of peace amid the fair’s lights and attractions. 

“Many visitors throng to this fair to witness the stalls, but when they come here, have a darshan of Lord Jagannath and listen to Bhagavad Gita, they are mesmerised. I can see it on their faces, and they are genuinely pleased to hear it,” said the priest.

Culture, Commerce And Celebration

Beyond the Tungi, the festival grounds continued to brim with life on the Saturday evening. Crowds swelled near the main stages as artists performed through the night.

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Visitors shuttled between the fair’s numerous attractions, from food stalls and handicrafts to rides and cultural showcases, yet many made it a point to stop by the Bhagabat Tungi, stated reports.