Odisha’s ancient maritime heritage stands as a living testament to history, continually inspiring its people, said Deputy Chief Minister Smt. Pravati Parida today.
Speaking at the India Maritime 2025 event here, she highlighted how the state’s seafaring warriors, known as Sadhavas, navigated grand voyages on Boita ships to distant lands like Bali, Java, Sumatra, and Thailand, amassing untold wealth for their homeland. Archaeological excavations further reveal deep-rooted trade ties with Sri Lanka and Southeast Asia, underscoring Odisha’s pivotal role in ancient global commerce.
Parida described the Boita Bandana festival and the Cuttack Bali Yatra – recognized as Asia’s largest open-air trade fair – as vivid embodiments of this storied nautical legacy. “These traditions not only connect us to our past but propel us toward a prosperous future,” she remarked, emphasizing their role in fostering cultural and economic exchanges.
Addressing the gathering on India’s maritime relations, the Deputy CM extended a warm invitation to the upcoming Bali Yatra, scheduled from November 5 to 12 this year. “I urge everyone to witness this spectacular event, where Odisha’s vibrant art, culture, handicrafts, narratives, and delectable cuisine come alive in a celebration of our shared heritage,” she added.
During the visit, Parida inaugurated the Odisha pavilion set up by the state’s Commerce and Transport Department. The stall, themed around the glory of Odisha’s maritime traditions, offers a compelling showcase of the region’s historic sea voyages. “This powerful display captures the essence of our seafaring journeys and positions Odisha as a frontrunner in India’s Eastern Maritime Corridor,” she stated.
Elaborating on the state’s maritime vision, Parida outlined an integrated approach that honors ancient legacies while building a modern, sustainable, and globally integrated blue economy. She shed light on Odisha’s rich maritime heritage, cutting-edge port infrastructure, and ambitious blue economy roadmap. “From the ancient maritime prowess of Kalinga to our seamless global trade linkages today, Odisha’s coastal heritage continues to inspire progress. With a strategic focus on world-class ports and sustainable blue growth, the state is poised as a key driver in revitalizing India’s eastern maritime resurgence,” she affirmed.
Commerce and Transport Principal Secretary Smt. Usha Padhi welcomed the Deputy CM and provided insights into the pavilion’s exhibits.
Later, Parida toured the Paradip Port Authority’s pavilion, supported by the Commerce and Transport Department. She was particularly delighted by the intricate sand sculpture on Odisha’s maritime trade, crafted by Padma Shri awardee Sudarshan Pattnaik. “This artistic marvel beautifully captures our nautical history and fills me with immense pride,” she expressed.
The event underscores Odisha’s commitment to leveraging its historic strengths for contemporary economic growth, blending tradition with innovation to chart a bold course ahead.
🌊 From Kalinga’s ancient Boita voyages to today’s blue economy boom—Odisha’s maritime magic lives on! DCM @PravatiParida unveils epic pavilion & sand art at #IndiaMaritime2025. Join Bali Yatra Nov 5-12 for culture, crafts & coastal vibes! 🇮🇳
#OdishaPride #BaliYatra (Link to article)