Odisha Renames Iconic Fair as "Historic Bali Jatra Cuttack 2025" with Expanded Venue
Event to be held on 60 acres of Mahanadi riverbank, traffic and cultural arrangements streamlined for visitors
Bhubaneswar : The Odisha Government has announced a renaming of the state’s iconic fair, Historic Bali Jatra, ahead of this year’s celebrations. Scheduled from November 5 to 12 at the Cuttack Bali Jatra Ground, the event will now be officially called “Historic Bali Jatra Cuttack 2025.”
To improve visitor experience and manage traffic congestion, authorities have decided to shift the entire fair to the lower Bali Jatra Ground, excluding the upper ground near Barabati Stadium. The festival will now span 60 acres on the banks of the Mahanadi near Gadgadia Ghat, nearly doubling from the previous 34 acres.
Officials highlighted key updates for this year’s event. All traffic and parking-related information will be accessible on the Bali Jatra portal, ensuring smoother movement for attendees. Cultural troupes registered under the Society Registration App can submit applications through the district culture office, with each troupe allocated 20 minutes for performances. Additionally, RFP Management will oversee the tender process for event management, valid until October 30, 2025.
Bali Jatra, observed annually on Kartika Purnima, celebrates the ancient maritime voyages of Odia sailors to Southeast Asia. The week-long festival has grown into one of Odisha’s most prominent cultural and trade events, attracting tourists, traders, and cultural enthusiasts from across the country.
With the expanded venue and improved organizational arrangements, “Historic Bali Jatra Cuttack 2025” is set to offer a more vibrant and accessible experience for visitors while preserving the fair’s rich heritage and cultural significance.
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