The Odisha government is working to get global recognition for the historic Bali Yatra festival, a famous cultural event held every year in Cuttack.
During a session in the Odisha Assembly, MLA Debi Ranjan Tripathy asked about national recognition for Bali Yatra. In response, Cultural Minister Suryabanshi Suraj clarified on Friday that there is no official process for granting national status to the festival. Instead, such recognition is given only by UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization).
“There is no system in place to grant a national status tag for festivals. UNESCO is the only body that recognizes fairs and festivals as intangible heritage. Whether it’s Bali Yatra or Dhanu Yatra, we are working to get them included in UNESCO’s heritage list. The government has also allocated funds in the budget for this effort,” said Minister Suryabanshi Suraj.
Odisha Government in Talks with UNESCO
The Odisha government is actively working with UNESCO to gain global recognition for Bali Yatra. A team of experts has been formed to ensure regular discussions. Expressing confidence, the Minister said, “We are hopeful that UNESCO’s recognition will come soon.”
Record Turnout at Bali Yatra
Cuttack’s famous Bali Yatra saw an overwhelming response this year, attracting thousands of visitors. A total of 2,438 stalls were set up, offering a vibrant experience for attendees.
Stall Auctions and Revenue at Bali Yatra
Responding to a query by MLA Sofia Firdous, Culture Minister Suryabanshi Suraj shared that out of 2,438 stalls at Bali Yatra 2024, 1,188 were auctioned, while 1,250 were allotted at fixed rates. This setup generated an impressive revenue of ₹6.38 crore.
The historic Bali Yatra festival in Cuttack is a vibrant celebration of tradition, drawing visitors from all over India. It highlights Odisha’s rich maritime heritage while also giving a big boost to the local economy through trade and tourism.
Cuttack’s Bali Yatra Gets ‘National Fair’ Status
The Central government has officially recognized Odisha’s famous Bali Yatra in Cuttack as a ‘National Fair,’ highlighting its cultural and historical significance.
