Indonesia has been named the partner nation for this year’s Bali Yatra, Odisha’s largest maritime trade and cultural festival, which will be held in Cuttack from November 5 to 12. The Cuttack district administration announced that it would celebrate ancient Kalinga’s long-standing maritime relations with the Indonesian islands of Bali, Java, and Sumatra.

Officials stated that Indonesia was chosen as the first partner nation due to its long-standing historical and cultural ties to Odisha. The collaboration represents the revival of trade and cultural exchanges that formerly existed between Kalinga’s sailors, known as Sadhabas, and Southeast Asian traders.

A delegation from Indonesia is slated to attend the festival, which will take place on 60 acres on the banks of the Mahanadi River. A dedicated pavilion will feature Indonesian handicrafts and traditional products, providing visitors with an insight into the country’s cultural history.

Bali Yatra, which coincides with Kartika Purnima, has evolved into Odisha’s most celebrated fair, drawing traders, artisans, and visitors from all over the country. The state government has recognised it as an official state festival. Last year’s edition drew participants from various Southeast Asian countries, adding to the event’s expanding worldwide reputation.