Cuttack: The tranquil waters of the Mahanadi echoed with cheers and rhythmic drum beats as Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida, flagged off the Mahanadi Boita Race 2025, marking the commencement of an exciting two-day spectacle celebrating Odisha’s maritime traditions and the historic spirit of Bali Jatra.
Organised by the Department of Tourism in collaboration with the Cuttack administration, the event saw a vibrant confluence of sport, culture, and heritage along the stretch between Garadia Ghat and Silver City Boat Club.
A Cultural Salute to Maritime Heritage
The Mahanadi Boita Race draws its inspiration from the ancient Sadhabas (maritime traders) of Odisha who once set sail from the Mahanadi to distant shores of Bali, Java, Sumatra, and Sri Lanka, carrying with them the spirit of commerce, culture, and friendship.
The race forms a key highlight of this year’s Bali Jatra celebrations, symbolising Odisha’s age-old connection with the seas and its enduring maritime legacy.
Following the grand flag-off on Tuesday, the riverfront witnessed a spectacular Fly Boat Show, captivating audiences with stunning formations and speed displays. The excitement continued with the Boat Race Tournament, featuring competitive formats of 1,000 metres, 500 meters, and 200 meters, testing the endurance and synchrony of participating teams.
A total of 15 teams, including 10 men’s teams and 5 women’s teams representing Bihar, Delhi, Haryana, Jharkhand, Punjab, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Odisha, took part in the competition.
“The Mahanadi Boita Race is more than a competition — it is a tribute to the courage and enterprise of our ancestors who navigated the seas and built Odisha’s maritime legacy. The event connects our glorious past with the aspirations of a vibrant, youthful Odisha today,” the Deputy CM said.