Odisha Guv urges youth to revive maritime spirit at Bali Jatra closing ceremony
Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati praised the BaliJatra festival in Cuttack as the “mirror of Odisha’s soul.” He urged Odia youth to spark the spirit of the old Sadhaba Puas—ancient maritime traders who once sailed from the banks of the Mahanadi to Sri Lanka, Java, Sumatra, Bali, and Cambodia.
During the valedictory ceremony on November 12, the governor said the sea has always been a bridge, not a divider. “When guided by goodwill, trade and travel can unite civilizations, bringing harmony where politics may fail,” he told the crowd, calling BaliJatra a celebration of prosperity and morality.
Kambhampati highlighted Odisha’s rich maritime history. The brave seafarers carried goods, art, language, and faith across the Indian Ocean, proving that the oceans connect hearts and cultures. He said true wealth lies in the resilience and creativity of Odia people.
The governor was quick to praise the state government and the Cuttack District Administration for organising the festival, noting the Rs 200‑crore Mahanadi Riverfront Development Project. He welcomed the move to seek UNESCO World Heritage status for BaliJatra and thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for promoting India’s maritime heritage worldwide.
“Balijatra isn’t the end of a celebration – it’s the beginning of a journey of courage, creativity and compassion,” Kambhampati said.
Later that day, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi announced a one‑day extension. The historic BaliJatra festival, originally scheduled to finish on November 12, will now close on November 13.
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