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Odisha's Maritime Spirit: How Bali Jatra Mirrors the Odia Soul

Governor Kambhampati delivered an inspiring speech at the Bali Jatra closing ceremony, calling it a reflection of Odisha's soul. He urged the youth to channel the ancient maritime spirit of Sadhaba Puas into modern technology and innovation. The governor highlighted how ancient Odia seafarers connected civilizations through trade and cultural exchange. Meanwhile, Chief Minister Majhi announced a one-day extension of the historic festival in Cuttack.

Key Points: Odisha Governor Calls Youth to Revive Maritime Spirit at Bali Jatra

  • Governor describes Bali Jatra as mirror of Odisha's soul and eternal spirit
  • Calls youth to revive Sadhaba Puas' maritime trading legacy
  • Ancient seafarers sailed to Sri Lanka, Java carrying art and faith
  • Festival extended by one day following Chief Minister's announcement
  • Rs 200-crore Mahanadi Riverfront Project receives governor's appreciation
  • UNESCO World Heritage status sought for historic Bali Jatra festival
2 min read

Odisha Guv urges youth to revive maritime spirit at Bali Jatra closing ceremony

Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati urges Odisha youth to embrace Sadhaba Puas' maritime legacy through technology and innovation at Bali Jatra closing ceremony.

"Balijatra is not the end of a celebration, but the continuation of a journey of courage, creativity, and compassion. - Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati"

Bhubaneswar, Nov 12

Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati on Wednesday described the BaliJatra festival as the 'Mirror of Odisha's Soul', calling on the youths of Odisha to awaken the spirit of the 'Sadhaba Puas', the ancient maritime traders, by exploring new horizons in technology, innovation, and sustainable enterprise.

Speaking at the Valedictory Ceremony of the Historical Balijatra in Cuttack, Kambhampati stated that the historic Balijatra festival carries a timeless message for humanity -- that the seas were never meant to divide, but to connect.

"When guided by goodwill, trade and travel can unite civilisations, bringing harmony where politics may fail," the Governor said, calling Balijatra a celebration of both prosperity and morality.

He described the festival as a magnificent testament to Odisha's eternal spirit, weaving together the courage of Kalinga's ancient seafarers--the Sadhaba Puas--and the creativity of modern Odisha into one unbroken thread of glory.

Recalling the maritime heritage of Kalinga, Kambhampati said the brave seafarers once sailed from the banks of the Mahanadi to distant lands such as Sri Lanka, Java, Sumatra, Bali, and Cambodia, carrying not only goods but also the light of art, language, and faith. Their voyages, he said, proved that the sea is a bridge linking hearts and civilisations.

Calling Balijatra a "mirror of the Odia soul," the Governor said, "true wealth lies in the resilience and artistry of the people."

He urged the youth to awaken the spirit of the Sadhaba Puas by exploring new horizons in technology, innovation, and sustainable enterprise.

Kambhampati commended the state government and the Cuttack District Administration for their efforts in organising the festival and lauded the Rs 200-crore Mahanadi Riverfront Development Project.

He also appreciated the initiative to seek UNESCO World Heritage status for Balijatra and thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for promoting India's maritime heritage globally.

"Balijatra is not the end of a celebration," he said, "but the continuation of a journey of courage, creativity, and compassion."

Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Wednesday announced a one-day extension of the Bali Jatra in Cuttack. The historic festival, which was earlier scheduled to conclude on November 12, will now end on November 13.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
As a young Odia engineer, this really inspires me. We need to channel that same adventurous spirit into technology and innovation. Let's make Odisha a hub for sustainable enterprises!
M
Michael C
Visiting Bali Jatra for the first time this year - absolutely magnificent! The cultural richness and historical significance is breathtaking. Hope UNESCO recognizes this heritage soon.
A
Ananya R
While the speech was inspiring, I wish there were more concrete plans to actually support young entrepreneurs. Beautiful words need to be backed by action and funding.
S
Siddharth J
The extension of Bali Jatra by one day is great news! More people will get to experience this cultural extravaganza. Our ancient maritime history deserves to be celebrated widely.
K
Kavya N
"The seas were never meant to divide, but to connect" - what a powerful message! This philosophy is so relevant in today's divided world. Bali Jatra truly reflects the inclusive spirit of Odisha.

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