Pir Jahania Bali Yatra Begins with Boita Bandana, Over 50,000 Devotees Gather
Kakatpur | 05/11
(By: Tushar Dixit)
The grand Bali Yatra at Pir Jahania Peeth under Chhuriana Gram Panchayat in Astaranga Block of Puri district commenced on Friday with traditional Boita Bandana rituals. The event, organized to promote Odia language, literature, and culture, began at 7 a.m. with the ceremonial launching of decorated paper boats (boita) into the sea, reminiscent of Odisha’s ancient maritime glory.
The program began with a hom yajna performed by priests, followed by the official inauguration by Sarpanch Khirod Kandi, who floated a boita into the waters. Committee member Bimbadhar Biswal, Astaranga Police Sub-Inspector Deepak Samanta Singh, Fire Department Officer Sujiti Kumar Bhoi, Havildar Yashobanta Pradhan, BDO Madhusmita Behera, and Block Chairperson Arati Nayak participated in the ceremony, emphasizing the historical significance of maritime trade and Odisha’s rich cultural legacy.
From early morning, thousands of devotees were seen taking holy dips in the sea and offering prayers at Pir Baba’s shrine. The event site came alive with colorful decorations, lively markets, and traditional fairs that drew massive crowds. People from distant places flocked to the seashore, enjoying the festive atmosphere with beachside picnics.
Key government officials including BDO Sasmit Behera, Block Chairperson Arati Nayak, and representatives from police, drinking water, fire services, health, and electricity departments were present to ensure the smooth conduct of the yatra. Puri Additional SP Vishnu Mohan Pati, Gop Police Station IIC Prashant Padhiari, and Astaranga IIC Rajesh Kumar Baliyarsingh also visited the site and were seen closely monitoring the law and order situation.
This year’s yatra began with vibrant energy, blending spiritual devotion with cultural celebrations, drawing over 50,000 devotees to the scenic shores of Astaranga.
