Boat Racing Competition Kicks Off In Mahanadi River To Commemorate Bali Yatra

Bhubaneswar: In a vibrant celebration of Odisha’s maritime heritage, Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida inaugurated the two-day Boat Racing Competition in the Mahanadi River, marking the event’s first-ever edition to commemorate Bali Yatra 2025.

Mahanadi Boat Race Celebrates Odisha’s Seafaring Legacy

Organised by the Department of Tourism and the Cuttack district administration, the race was held along the scenic stretch between Gadgadia Ghat and Silver City Boat Club. A total of 15 teams from across India participated in the competition, making it a national-level attraction during the Bali Yatra festivities.

Flagging off the event, Deputy Chief Minister and Tourism Minister Pravati Parida said, “The Mahanadi Boita race is not just a competition, it’s a tribute to the courage and enterprise of our ancestors who navigated the seas and built Odisha’s maritime legacy.”

She added that the event beautifully connects the state’s glorious past with the aspirations of modern Odisha, reflecting the youth’s enthusiasm and pride in cultural traditions.

Thrilling Races and Fly Boat Show Enthrall Spectators

The competition featured exciting races in the 1,000-metre, 500-metre, and 200-metre categories. A special highlight was the participation of five women’s teams, showcasing exceptional rowing skills and sportsmanship.

The races were followed by a spectacular fly boat show, where high-speed boats performed dazzling formations, leaving the audience mesmerized.

Tourism Department and Officials Laud the Initiative

The event drew several dignitaries, including Commissioner-cum-Secretary, Tourism, Balwant Singh, DIG Home Guards and Fire Services Umashankar Das, Tourism Director Deepankar Mohapatra, Collector Dattatraya Bhausaheb Shinde, DCP Khilari Rishikesh Dnyandeo, and CMC Commissioner Kirandeep Kaur Sahota.

Officials praised the initiative for boosting tourism, sports, and cultural identity, reinforcing Cuttack’s prominence as a centre of Odisha’s maritime celebrations.

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