Bali Jatra Festival Kicks Off in Cuttack
The world-famous Bali Jatra festival was inaugurated by Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi in Cuttack. This week-long event, running until November 22, celebrates Odisha’s rich maritime history and its connections with Southeast Asia and the Indo-Pacific region.
International Participation
The opening ceremony was graced by ambassadors, high commissioners, and diplomats from 14 countries, who enjoyed a boat ride on the Mahanadi River and explored the festival’s stalls. Cultural troupes from ASEAN, BIMSTEC, and Pacific Island countries are performing throughout the week.
Notable Attendees
Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida, Members of Parliament Bhartruhari Mahtab and Bibhu Prasad Tarai, and senior state officials attended the event. Jaideep Mazumdar, Secretary (East) from the Ministry of External Affairs, highlighted the participation of cultural troupes from countries like Bangladesh, Bhutan, Indonesia, and more.
The festival marks a decade of India’s Act East Policy, enhancing its international profile with diverse cultural performances.
Doubts Revealed
Odisha -: Odisha is a state in eastern India, known for its rich culture, history, and beautiful temples.
Chief Minister -: The Chief Minister is the head of the government in an Indian state, similar to a principal in a school but for the whole state.
Mohan Charan Majhi -: Mohan Charan Majhi is a political leader and the Chief Minister of Odisha, responsible for making important decisions for the state.
Bali Jatra -: Bali Jatra is a famous festival in Odisha that celebrates the state’s ancient maritime trade with Southeast Asia.
Cuttack -: Cuttack is a city in Odisha, known for its history and as a major cultural hub in the state.
Maritime history -: Maritime history refers to the history of human interaction with the sea, including trade and exploration.
ASEAN -: ASEAN stands for the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, a group of countries in Southeast Asia that work together on economic and cultural matters.
BIMSTEC -: BIMSTEC is a group of countries in South Asia and Southeast Asia that work together for economic and technical cooperation.
Pacific Island countries -: These are countries located in the Pacific Ocean, known for their unique cultures and beautiful islands.
Diplomats -: Diplomats are people who represent their country in other countries, helping to maintain good relationships.
Mahanadi River -: The Mahanadi River is a major river in India, flowing through the state of Odisha.
Act East Policy -: India’s Act East Policy is a strategy to improve relations and cooperation with countries in Southeast Asia and the Asia-Pacific region.
