OSUK’s First-Ever Bali Jatra Celebration in the UK Marks a Historic Cultural Milestone

Bhubaneswar:29/10/24: The Odisha Society of the United Kingdom (OSUK) is thrilled to announce the first ever Bali Jatra festival in the UK, scheduled for November 30, 2024, at Townley Grammar School in Bexley, London. The festival celebrates Odisha’s rich maritime legacy, symbolized by the annual Bali Jatra festivities traditionally held in Cuttack, Odisha.

This historic UK event will bring together Odias and well-wishers from across the UK in a vibrant celebration of culture, heritage, and unity. Today’s Mrs  Sweta  Mohanty in a press conference provides an overview of OSUK’s mission and vision as well as the goals of Bali Jatra. Patron  & Managing partner Shree Jagannath Properties & Developers  Mr. Shashi Kumar Sahoo describes the plan and program of Balijatra  to be celebrated by OSUK

OSUK, established over 40 years ago, has been a beacon for the Odia diaspora in the UK, serving as a cultural bridge between Odisha and the UK. Committed to fostering unity and cultural continuity, OSUK aims to create an inclusive platform where Odias can preserve their heritage, share it with others, and support meaningful projects connecting the two regions.

The Bali Jatra celebration in London will feature traditional Odia music and dance performances, a rich array of authentic Odia food, and exhibitions showcasing Odisha’s crafts and maritime history. “Bali Jatra commemorates Odisha’s ancient trade links with Southeast Asia, celebrating the historical voyages of the Kalinga traders who connected Odisha with regions like Bali, Java, and Sumatra,” shared OSUK spokesperson. “This first UK-based Bali Jatra is a remarkable opportunity for the Odia community in the UK to celebrate their roots and introduce this unique tradition to an international audience.”

Key dignitaries from both Odisha and the UK are expected to attend, including Her Majesty’s Lord Lieutenant of Kent, The Lady Colgrain, along with other prominent figures. Also invited are Ollywood stars Sabyasachi Mishra and Archita Sahu, and cultural contributors, ensuring that this landmark celebration will have a wide reach and impact. Aligned with OSUK’s larger goals, Bali Jatra UK is not just a festival but a launchpad for deeper cross-cultural relations, and opportunities in trade, tourism, and education between Odisha and the UK

In addition, the event will serve as a platform to promote Odisha’s arts, crafts, and tourism potential, with significant involvement from UK-based and Odia entrepreneurs. The event will also see the official release of *Utkala Prabha Magazine 2024*, celebrating Odisha’s heritage through articles, folk stories, and vibrant art. This publication is a testament to OSUK’s ongoing dedication to nurturing Odia literature and culture among global audiences