SHIRDI SAI GLOBAL FOUNDATION, MONDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2016: On the auspicious day of Kartik Purnima, 14th November, Bal Jagruti Association organized the traditional  Boita Bandana Festival 2016 on the lawns of  Boat Club, near Krishi Bhawan, New Delhi. People in Odisha celebrate 'Boita Bandana festival' to recall their glorious maritime past. Dr. C.B. Satpathy graced the function as the Chief Guest. Special Guest Shri Jual Oram, Union Cabinet Minister for Tribal Affairs, many senior officers from the central and other state governments, and people from the Odia community & those of others living in Delhi also participated in the function.

 

The program began with the lighting of the ceremonial lamp by Dr. Satpathy and other guests. The organizers of the festival graciously welcomed the guests with a Turban and traditional Shawl. Sumatra and Bali. Odissi and Sambalpuri dances along with a soulful rendering of bhajans during the cultural program enthralled the large audience, who were present to celebrate the festival. The main attraction of the event was the boat ride taken by Dr. Satpathy along with the other dignitaries present, to mark the glorious tradition of the past. In ancient times, the traders used to start their journey on the auspicious day of Kartik Purnima (Full Moon Day) to sail to distant places like Borneo, Malaya, Sumatra and Bali.

 

Speaking on occasion, Dr. Satpathy elaborated upon the rich maritime past of Odisha, the culture of Odisha. He thus highlighted the significance of Boita Bandana festival. He also appreciated the efforts of the Association for organizing this function every year in a planned manner.