London, 30th November 2024 –Bali Jatra, meaning “Voyage to Bali,” is a historic festival celebrating Odisha’s ancient maritime legacy and the adventurous spirit of its seafaring ancestors. Traditionally observed along the banks of the Mahanadi River, the festival highlights the state’s thriving trade and cultural exchanges with Southeast Asian countries like Bali, Java, and Sumatra, which date back over a millennium. Merchants from Odisha, known as Sadhabas, undertook daring voyages in robust boats called Boitas, transporting goods such as textiles, spices, and gemstones. Today, the festival’s traditions, including the floating of miniature boats and vibrant cultural displays, serve as a poignant reminder of Odisha’s global connections and significant role in ancient maritime trade.
For the first time, this historic celebration was brought to the United Kingdom, hosted at Townley Grammar School in Bexley. Organized by the Odisha Society of United Kingdom (OSUK), the event drew over 500 attendees, including dignitaries, cultural icons, and community leaders from the UK and India. With support from Shree Jagannath Developer, Odisha Tourism, Roptia, Shero Properties and Dreamlandtrips, the festival provided an engaging platform to showcase Odisha’s rich cultural heritage and global historical ties.
A key highlight was the ceremonial Boita Bandana, symbolizing Odisha’s maritime history and its enduring legacy. Led by Dr. Bhargava Vasudevan, Deputy Lieutenant of Gravesham, and Manoj Panda from the Indian High Commission, the ritual featured the floating of miniature boats adorned with lighted lamps, evoking the state’s historic seafaring traditions and honouring the pioneering spirit of its ancient merchants.
Cultural Extravaganza:
The event commenced with the Indian and British national anthems, followed by Odisha’s state anthem Bande Utkala Janani, performed by Odia diaspora women under the direction of singer Sonali Pattnaik. A captivating Mangala Charana performance by Odissi maestro Avirup Sengupta and his student Adwiti Tripathy Pattnayak set a vibrant tone. Yoga guru Sitanshu Sahu engaged the audience with a session promoting mental well-being. A London-based Odissi dancer captivated the audience with her performance, dedicating it to raising awareness for mental health. Preeti Rath choreographed the fashion show for Designer Collective, with showstoppers Sabya Sachi and Archita. Sabita Pradhan choreographed the Sambalpuri dance, which beautifully showcased and promoted Odia culture.
Mrs. Sweta Mohanty, OSUK spokesperson, underscored Odisha’s maritime history and its modern significance, including India’s stitched ship project. Director Partha Sarathi Panda emphasized the mission to globally promote Odisha’s rich cultural and trade legacy. Dr. Bibhuti Bhusan Pattnayak, OSUK’s Organizing Secretary, expressed deep pride in the success of the event, stating, “Bali Jatra UK reflects the unwavering spirit of the Odia diaspora. It is a celebration of our rich heritage and values, carrying forward the universal message of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’—the world is one family. This remarkable event was made possible through the collective efforts of our members, sponsors, and supporters, who came together to honour Odisha’s legacy and foster cultural connections.”
Global Recognition and Endorsement:
The Bali Jatra UK initiative garnered widespread acclaim for spotlighting Odisha’s cultural richness on an international stage. Former Member of Parliament Smt. Zubin Irani lauded the Odisha Society of the United Kingdom for its monumental effort in bringing the state’s heritage to a global audience. Jay Panda, MP and National Vice President of BJP, praised the event as a meaningful bridge between the UK and Odisha. In a message of appreciation, the Honourable Chief Minister of Odisha remarked, “Bali Jatra in London will revive Odisha’s glorious history and heritage on the global platform, attracting attention from international traders and investors.” Deputy Chief Minister Smt. Pravati Parida also conveyed her admiration in a similar letter of appreciation.
Adding to the accolades, the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office congratulated OSUK for this remarkable initiative, describing it as a crucial step in strengthening the “Living Bridge” between India and the UK, fostering deeper cultural and people-to-people ties.
Dignitaries and Cultural Icons:
The event was graced by a host of royal and parliamentary dignitaries, including The Mayor of Bexley, Cllr Sue Gower MBE JP; Mr. David Easton JP DL, Deputy Lieutenant of Bexley; and Dr. Bhargava Vasudevan FRCSEd, Deputy Lieutenant of Gravesham. Representing the Royal Family, Mr. Easton conveyed a message commending the community’s efforts, while Dr. Vasudevan applauded OSUK for uniting the Indian diaspora through such an extraordinary celebration. Other distinguished guests included Manoj Panda from the Indian High Commission, Councillor Rag Sandhu, and Jordan Meade, Deputy Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care & Public Health.
A Star-Studded Cultural Showcase:
The event’s vibrancy was elevated by the presence of Ollywood icons Sabyasachi Mishra and Archita Sahu, who adorned traditional Sambalpuri attire and participated in cultural parades, folk dances, and A fashion show showcasing India’s rich handloom heritage, presented by Designer Collective. Renowned Bollywood singer Asit Tripathy mesmerized the audience with his unique blend of Bollywood hits and traditional Sambalpuri music. Meanwhile, Odissi dancer and choreographer Avirup Sengupta delivered a compelling performance that seamlessly integrated the grace of classical dance with a powerful message of advocacy.
Awards and Recognitions:
The event celebrated excellence across diverse fields through a series of prestigious awards. The Distinguished Overseas Citizen Award 2024 was conferred on Rag Sandhu, with Sitansu Sahu recognized as a finalist. Jordan Meade was honored with the Excellence in Social Service Award 2024, with Sushmita Rajhansha as a finalist. The Outstanding Community Impact Award 2024 went to Orpington Kanda Parivar, with commendable contributions from finalists Shree Jagannatha Temple UK (City of BATH), UTSAB, Desi Trendy Sangathan, and Marathi Mandal Kent.
Dr. Kanhu Charan Pattnayak received the Climate Change Leadership Award 2024, while Roptia was acknowledged with the Digital Pioneer Award 2024. The Women Entrepreneur Leadership Award 2024 celebrated the achievements of Jeeta Mona, Gayatri Panda, and Sonali Panda. Culinary excellence was recognized with the Social Impact Culinary Award 2024, awarded to Debasmita Mohapatra, while Upasana Padhi received the Home-Based Entrepreneur Award 2024.
In the youth category, Adwiti Tripathy Pattnayak earned the Inspiring Young Talent Award 2024, with Sandeep Tripathy Pattnayak, Anaya Shimpi, and Arya Priya Dey as finalists. Finally, the Social Media Influencer Award 2024 honored TV Presenter Aradhana, Rohit Srivastav, and eOdisha for their impactful online presence.
These accolades underscored the remarkable talent, dedication, and vibrant community spirit showcased at the event.
Participant Stalls:
The Bali Jatra UK 2024 featured a diverse range of participant stalls, offering unique experiences. Sparsh Ethnic Wear showcased festive attire, while The Sisters Trunk by Debalina displayed exquisite handcrafted products. Other stalls included Nayan Art & Crafts, Paridhan By Sumita, Indiya Restaurant, and Titu’s Kitchen, offering delightful cuisine and culture.
In addition to the vibrant local stalls, Bali Jatra UK 2024 also featured international participants, offering a wide variety of services and products. These included Amadeus Legal from the UK, offering expert legal services and wills, Dreamlandtrips providing luxury travel experiences, and Sheroproperties from Dubai, specializing in luxury homes in Dubai and India. Payment solutions were offered by Paymetryx, while Designer Collective showcased high-end Indian fashion. Kalinga Vessel and Shamayati Superspecialist Hospital represented India’s Marine, social and healthcare sectors, and Rapturous Art and Craft added a touch of artistic flair to the event
A Remarkable Milestone
Bali Jatra UK 2024 marked a triumphant celebration of Odisha’s vibrant culture and maritime heritage, leaving attendees inspired and deeply connected to its rich traditions. Organized by the Odisha Society of United Kingdom (OSUK) in just three months, the event earned widespread praise for its meticulous planning and impactful execution. Beyond cultural festivities, the event supported two noble causes, raising funds for the Maritime Volunteer Service (Lower Thames Unit) and Dibyajivan, an initiative aiding Odisha’s fight against cancer. This dual focus on heritage and community welfare underscored the event’s broader mission to create a positive and lasting impact.
