Bali Jatra, the grandest festival of Odisha, unfolds over three enchanting days along the banks of the Mahanadi River, commencing on Kartika Purnima, the culmination of the sacred Kartika month in the Hindu lunar calendar. This vibrant event signifies the onset of winter and pays homage to Odisha’s maritime legacy, commemorating the illustrious seafaring traditions of yore. Let us delve into the mystical origins that underpin this magnificent celebration.

In ancient times, Odisha, known as Utkal, thrived as a maritime hub, with traders embarking on voyages to distant lands such as Java, Sumatra, Borneo, and Bali. The festival of Bali Jatra pays homage to these seafaring traditions, reenacting the rituals of departure and bidding farewell as womenfolk sang songs of safe passage for their loved ones. According to legend, the choice of Kartika Purnima for these voyages held profound significance, as it was believed to be an auspicious day favored by the divine forces.

The ritual of Boita Bandana, or the worship of sailboats, is rooted in ancient mythology and folklore. It is said that on Kartika Purnima, the celestial alignment and cosmic energies were conducive to safe navigation across the seas. The sadhabas, or maritime traders, embarked on their voyages with blessings from the gods, seeking fortune and prosperity in distant lands. Their wives and womenfolk, known as sadhaba bohus, gathered on the seashore to bid them farewell, invoking the divine protection of the river goddess.

The tradition of sailing miniature replicas of boitas made of banana barks or solo (pith) in nearby rivers, ponds, or water bodies is a symbolic homage to this ancient practice. These vessels, laden with offerings of grain, betel leaves, and nuts, represent the spirit of adventure and exploration that characterized Odisha’s maritime history. The chanting of sacred verses and the lighting of lamps symbolize the divine blessings sought for a prosperous voyage and a bountiful harvest.

As the festival has evolved over the years, from the upper ground of Barabati Fort to the sandy banks of the Mahanadi, its essence remains deeply rooted in tradition and mythology. Boita Bandana continues to be a cherished ritual, reminiscent of a bygone era when Odisha flourished as a maritime superpower. Today, as we gather to celebrate Bali Jatra, let us honor the legacy of our ancestors and pay tribute to the spirit of adventure, enterprise, and cultural exchange that define our rich maritime heritage.