Bali Jatra 2026 / President Droupadi Murmu to Inaugurate Kataka Bali Jatra on Nov 24

Kataka, Nov 24: President Droupadi Murmu will inaugurate the annual Bali Jatra festival in Kataka on November 24, marking the opening of one of Odisha's biggest cultural and trade events, officials said on Tuesday.

According to the Kataka district administration, the President will attend the inaugural ceremony as the chief guest at what is regarded as Asia's largest open-air trade fair, celebrated for showcasing Odisha's rich maritime legacy and cultural traditions.

Dignitaries to Attend

Odisha Governor Braj Mohan Ram and Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi are scheduled to attend the inauguration and share the dais with the President during the evening programme.

The presence of the President, Governor and Chief Minister is expected to lend significance to this year's edition of the festival, which attracts large crowds from across Odisha and beyond.

Preparations Underway

With the President scheduled to inaugurate the event, the district administration has made elaborate arrangements to ensure the smooth conduct of the festival and the visit of VVIP dignitaries.

Officials said necessary security and administrative measures are being put in place ahead of the inaugural ceremony. The district administration has officially confirmed the President's participation in the event.

Celebrating a Maritime Legacy

Bali Jatra, meaning "Voyage to Bali", commemorates the seafaring tradition of ancient Kalinga traders who sailed from the shores of Odisha to Southeast Asian regions such as Bali, Java, Sumatra and Borneo in large merchant vessels known as Boitas.
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Observed around Kartika Purnima every year, the festival honours Odisha's historic maritime trade links and cultural exchanges with Southeast Asia. Over the decades, Bali Jatra has evolved into a major cultural, commercial and entertainment event while continuing to evoke memories of the State's glorious maritime past.

The festival remains one of Odisha's most cherished celebrations, drawing thousands of visitors and traders and serving as a reminder of the enduring legacy of ancient Kalinga's overseas trade and navigation traditions.