Cuttack: Chief Minister Mohan Majhi has declared Indonesia as the official partner country for Bali Jatra 2026, which is set to take place from November 26 to December 1 on the banks of the Mahanadi river.
The announcement will add an international dimension to the annual festival, which celebrates Odisha’s rich maritime heritage and the voyages of ancient Kalinga traders.
The partnership with Indonesia is expected to provide a platform for cultural exchange and strengthen cooperation in tourism and industry.
In a social media post highlighting Bali Jatra’s growing economic significance, Majhi said a high-level delegation is also scheduled to travel to Bali under the ‘Taking It to Bali’ initiative, while Indonesia will participate as the partner country of Bali Jatra 2026.
The CM said Bali Jatra has grown beyond a traditional celebration into a major economic and cultural platform. “The 2025 edition attracted 65 lakh visitors and generated business worth over Rs 400 crore, with participation from 24 staters,” he added.
In recent years, the Odisha government has been positioning Bali Jatra as a business opportunity for local artisans, weavers, self-help groups, traders and entrepreneurs.
Cuttack collector Dattatraya Bhausaheb Shinde said Indonesia’s participation would help strengthen the cultural and economic ties between the two regions. “Indonesia being the partner country of Bali Jatra 2026 is a significant step towards reviving our historic maritime connections. The association will provide an opportunity to showcase Odisha’s rich heritage while promoting cultural exchange, tourism and economic cooperation,” Shinde said.