Odisha is soaked with a rich ancient maritime
history. Traders known as Sadhabas used to sail off in huge boats called Boitas
from the ports of Odisha to the distant ports of Bali, Java, Sumatra, Borneo
(Indonesia) and Sri Lanka to trade silk fabrics, spices, perfumes and diamonds
from Sambalpur river beds (Hirakud’s name origin proves it). The then Sadhabas,
would take advantage of favorable winds and sea currents in the winters to
sail their Boitas to distant lands. Their expeditions would traditionally begin
on the day of Kartika Purnima, which usually is the full moon day in the month
of November.
The
Sadhabas were given hearty von voyage for the safe passage and well-being
before the onset of their expedition by saying “Aa Ka Ma Bai……………” which symbolizes
the Odia months i.e. Asadha, Kartika, Margashira & Baisakha. While the
period from Asadha to Kartika was the season of outgoing journey and Magha to
Baisakha was considered to be the season of return. Those days are gone
now, but the memory is still alive.
The
memory of those expeditions are kept alive in the festival of Boita Bhasani
& Bandana, and to reminiscence the unforgotten glory of the Sadhabas of
ancient Odisha, miniature replicas of the sea faring boats are made. Men
and women dress in traditional costumes, light lamps in the boats and afloat
them at their nearest water body.
A fair called Bali Jatra (“Journey to Bali”), is held and celebrated with a lot of enthusiasm on the banks of the Mahanadi River at Gadagadia Ghata in Cuttack. It’s an extravaganza of eight days that begins from day of Kartik Purnima.
More than 1000 kiosks showcase ethnic goods along with modern gadgets, food stalls and lot more, drawn from across the state and outside. Thunka Puri and Dahi Bara Aludum are the major gastronomical delights that attract many.
Happy Kartika Purnima to all of you..!!
Jai Jagannatha
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