President Commemorates Odisha's Maritime Heritage during Boita Bandana

• 28 Nov 2023

On 27^th November, 2023, the President flagged off a special boat during the Boita Bandana festival in Paradip, celebrating Odisha's rich maritime history.

• Emphasizing the festival's significance, she highlighted its connection to the state's prosperous maritime trade and cultural heritage.

Key Points

• Unique Festival: President described Baliyatra as a unique festival that symbolizes Odisha's glorious maritime past and showcases the cultural consciousness of its people.
• Cultural Exchange: The president highlighted the role of merchants in spreading Indian art and culture abroad through maritime trade.
• Efficient Ports: Addressing an event organized by the Paradip Port Authority, the President stressed the need for Indian ports to operate with greater efficiency aligned with global standards.
• Devotee Participation: Devotees from across Odisha participated in Boita Bandana, floating miniature boats in water bodies to honour the maritime glory of the state.
• Annual Tradition: The celebration, an annual tradition, involves paying homage to ancestors and celebrating the seafaring heritage of Odisha.
• Miniature Boats: Colourful miniature boats made of paper, thermocol, and banana branches filled water bodies. This year, large-sized paper boats gained popularity.