Historic Bali yatra kicks off in Cuttack; Odisha Governor, CM Majhi, other leaders extend wishes

 The historic Bali yatra, celebrating Odisha’s rich maritime legacy, begins today in Odisha’s Cuttack district. Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi will inaugurate the carnival this afternoon in the presence of Indonesia Ambassador Ina H. Krisnamurthi.

 The grand carnival, touted as Asia’s largest open-air trade carnival, will continue till November 12. It spans over 60 acres, featuring shopping, entertainment, and a wide variety of food stalls.

 Thousands of traders have already set up their stalls, expecting lakhs of visitors each day.

 Ahead of the fair, both the upper and the lower riverbanks of the Mahanadi have been beautifully adorned into a vibrant cultural hub.

 This year, around 1,700 stalls, including those from Odisha Rural Development and Marketing Society (ORMAS) and from other states, have been opened at Bali yatra. It will feature traditional handicrafts and handlooms to modern lifestyle products.

 ‘Cuttack in Cuttack’

 Under its unique ‘Cuttack in Cuttack’ segment, the fair will showcase the indigenous art and culture of Odisha, promote Odia language, literature, and culture, and offer many other attractions.

Adding to the festive fervour, a series of cultural performances has been lined up featuring top artists, including Bollywood playback singer Shreya Ghoshal and leading names from Ollywood.

In view of the massive gathering, the security arrangements have been strengthened and made foolproof by the Commissionerate Police. Around 20 control rooms have been set up across the fairground, and the entire area is under CCTV and drone surveillance.

Adequate police personnel have been deployed for crowd management, and special teams are monitoring key entry and exit points. Strict traffic and parking plans have been implemented to avoid congestion.

In addition, the Fire Services Department has stationed fire tenders at multiple locations and is on high alert to respond swiftly to any emergency.

Wishes Pour In

"Heartfelt greetings and congratulations to all on the occasion of the world-famous Bali yatra, which highlights Odisha's glorious maritime trade tradition and cultural heritage. This tradition is the lifeblood of Odisha's pride and culture," tweeted Odisha Governor Dr. Hari Babu Kambhampati.

 Sharing a video on 'X', Chief Minister Mohan Majhi wishes all on the auspicious occasion of Bali yatra.