Cuttack: Indonesia has been named partner nation for this year’s Cuttack Bali Jatra, which is scheduled to begin from November 5.
The Cuttack administration announced the partnership on Saturday aimed at celebrating and reviving the historic maritime connections between Kalinga (present-day Odisha) and Bali. “Indonesia was selected as the first partner nation due to the deep maritime and cultural ties. Kalinga’s traders, known as sadhabas, sailed to the Indonesian islands of Bali, Java and Sumatra to exchange goods and culture,” said additional district magistrate, Cuttack, Shibo Toppo.
The maritime commerce of Kalinga dates back approximately 2500 years.
He added that discussions between district officials and Indonesian representatives are underway to showcase the ancient trade connections between the two regions. A delegation from Indonesia is likely to visit Odisha and remain present during the maritime trade and cultural fair being organised across more than 60 acres of land on the banks of the Mahanadi near the Barabati Fort and Gadgadia Ghat. There will be a special pavilion displaying Indonesian handicrafts, artworks, and handmade products, offering visitors a glimpse of their culture.
There will be several other new attractions, including a 3D gallery, an experience zone, and a vintage car exhibition, at the fair this year, along with live performance by Shreya Ghoshal and Harshdeep Kaur.
With Indonesia’s participation, the festival is set to not only strengthen cultural exchange but also enhance its global appeal.
Interestingly, the ‘Masakapan ke Tukad’ festival celebrated in Bali is similar to the Bali Yatra festival in Odisha. Both festivals are celebrated in the memory of their maritime ancestors. The “Loykrathong” or “Loy” festival organised by Thailand in the month of December also represents ritualistic floating of boats which has an adequate resemblance with Odisha’s customs.
