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Bhubaneswar, Nov 12 (IANS) Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati on Wednesday described the Balijatra festival as the ‘mirror of the soul of Odisha’ and called upon the youth of Odisha to awaken the spirit of the ancient sea traders, ‘Sadaba Poos’, by exploring new horizons in technology, innovation and sustainable enterprise.
Speaking at the closing ceremony of the historic Balijatra in Cuttack, Kambhampati said the historic Balijatra festival conveys a timeless message to humanity – that the oceans are never meant to divide, but to connect.
Describing Balijatra as a celebration of both prosperity and morality, the Governor said, “When guided by goodwill, trade and travel can unite civilizations, bringing harmony where politics may fail.”
He described the festival as a shining testament to the eternal spirit of Odisha, which weaves together the courage of the ancient sailors of Kalinga – Sadaba Puas – and the creativity of modern Odisha in an unbroken thread of pride.
Recalling the maritime heritage of Kalinga, Kambhampati said that brave sailors once set sail from the banks of the Mahanadi to distant lands like Sri Lanka, Java, Sumatra, Bali and Cambodia, carrying not only goods but also art, language and the light of faith. His voyages proved that the sea is a bridge connecting hearts and civilizations, he said.
Calling Balijatra a “mirror of the Odia soul”, the Governor said, “The true wealth lies in the resilience and artistry of the people.”
He urged the youth to awaken the spirit of evergreen pus by exploring new horizons in technology, innovation and sustainable enterprise.
Kambhampathy lauded the state government and the Cuttack district administration for their efforts in organizing the festival and the Rs 200 crore Mahanadi Riverfront Development Project.
He also appreciated the initiative to get Balijatra World Heritage status by UNESCO and thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for promoting India’s maritime heritage globally.
“Balijatra is not the end of any festival, but a continuation of the journey of courage, creativity and compassion,” he said.
Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi announced the extension of Bali Yatra by one day in Cuttack on Wednesday. The historic festival, which was earlier scheduled to end on November 12, will now end on November 13.
–IANS
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