Cuttack, Odisha: The countdown has begun for Bali Yatra 2025, Odisha’s largest annual fair and one of Asia’s biggest open-air festivals. Scheduled to take place from November 5 to November 12, this eight-day extravaganza will once again bring the historic riverbanks of Cuttack to life with vibrant sights, sounds, and stories that celebrate Odisha’s rich maritime heritage.
This year, the fair has been officially renamed “Historic Bali Yatra Cuttack”, a title that reflects its deep historical roots and growing national recognition. Held on the banks of the Mahanadi River, near the iconic Barabati Fort, the festival is expected to draw millions of visitors from across the country and abroad.
Why is Bali Yatra Celebrated?
Bali Yatra—literally meaning “Voyage to Bali”—commemorates the ancient maritime traditions of Odisha, formerly known as Kalinga. On Kartika Purnima, Odia sailors known as Sadhabas once set sail for Southeast Asian islands such as Bali, Java, and Sumatra, fostering trade and cultural exchange across the Indian Ocean.
To honor this glorious history, people float miniature paper boats (called Boitas) in rivers and water bodies across the state during early dawn, often with oil lamps and betel leaves inside. Traditional folk songs like “Aa Ka Ma Boi” echo in the air, recounting the months once considered most favorable for setting sail.
What to Expect at Bali Yatra 2025
This year’s fair will be held over 60 acres at Talapadia, a significant expansion from previous years. Here’s what visitors can look forward to:
Cultural Programmes
- Daily live performances of Odia music, dance, and drama
- Folk acts that showcase Odisha’s rich traditions
- Stages featuring artists from across the country
Handicrafts & Shopping
- Stalls featuring traditional Odia crafts, textiles, jewelry, and curiosities
- A dedicated ORMAS (Odisha Rural Development & Marketing Society) zone featuring local artisans and self-help groups
QR-code-enabled stalls for easy identification and cashless purchases
- Food & Flavors
- Famous Odia street foods like:
- Cuttack Dahibara Aloodum
- Thunka Puri
- Gupchup
- Mathura Cake
- Banarasi Paan
- Kulfi, sweets, and more!
Fun for All Ages
- Amusement rides including giant wheels, toy trains, and the thrilling Maut Ka Kuan
- Game stalls and attractions for children
- Nighttime lights and carnival vibes till 11 PM daily
Safety, Sustainability & Smooth Experience
The Cuttack district administration has taken extensive measures to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors:
- Dedicated committees for land allotment, cultural programs, media coordination, and logistics
- Fire, electrical, and structural safety protocols in place
- Third-party insurance and certification for all rides and swings
- CRUT electric buses and special parking zones to manage traffic
- Sanitation, drinking water, and temporary toilets provided throughout the fairgrounds
- Green corridors and 24×7 barricades to restrict unauthorized vehicle movement
Boosting Local Economy & Heritage
Last year, ORMAS recorded ₹50 crore in sales, and the target for 2024 is ₹70–75 crore. Beyond economic benefits, the fair serves as a platform for rural entrepreneurs, artisans, and young creators to showcase their talents to a massive audience.
A Festival That Tells a Story
Bali Yatra is not just a festival—it’s Odisha’s living legacy. It speaks of ancient sailors, cultural exchanges, and a time when Kalinga’s influence stretched far beyond Indian shores. Today, through rituals like Ta’apoi, Bada Osha, and the symbolic boat sailing, families across the state keep that memory alive.
Save the Dates: Nov 5 – Nov 12, 2024
With expanded grounds, upgraded facilities, and a cultural calendar packed with performances, Historic Bali Yatra Cuttack 2024 promises to be the grandest edition yet.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a foodie, a shopper, or just someone looking for a vibrant experience—Bali Yatra welcomes you with open arms.
Come celebrate Odisha’s past and present—at the edge of the river, under the full moon, where stories set sail.