Paradip, Nov 5: On the auspicious occasion of Kartika Purnima, the Boita Bandana Utsav was celebrated with grandeur at Paradip Port, symbolizing Odisha’s rich maritime heritage.

Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, Industries Minister Sampad Swain, and Jagatsinghpur MP Bibhu Prasad Tarai graced the event, highlighting the cultural and economic significance of the festival.

Boita Bandana commemorates the ancient maritime trade of Odisha, where brave Odia merchants, known as Sadhaba Pua, sailed to distant lands like Java, Sumatra, and Suvarnadwipa. The festival recreates this legacy with rituals, dance performances, and symbolic farewells by Sadhabani women holding incense, lamps, and sandalwood trays.

During the event, the Chief Minister flagged off the ceremonial voyage and praised Paradip Port’s achievements. He emphasized that Paradip has emerged as one of India’s leading ports and is poised to become an industrial corridor in eastern India.

CM Majhi reiterated the government’s commitment to developing Paradip as the "Gateway of East India," akin to Mumbai’s western counterpart. He announced several key projects, including: ₹1.45 lakh crore investment in Paradip, a ₹500 crore textile park in Tirtol, a cruise terminal on the Mangala River to boost tourism, a new airport for Paradip city and, a petrochemical complex worth ₹80,000 crore, expected to generate 25,000 jobs

He also highlighted that Paradip beach has been declared a Blue Flag Beach, enhancing its appeal as a tourist destination. The week-long Kalinga Baliyatra, which was inaugurated by CM Majhi on Tuesday, celebrates the courage and spirit of Odia sailors and traders.

The CM’s visit and announcements mark a significant step in transforming Paradip into a hub of culture, commerce, and connectivity.