Bhubaneswar, Sept 6: Preparations are underway to organise Bali Yatra 2026 on a larger, safer and more attractive scale, with Chief Secretary Anu Garg reviewing the arrangements at a high-level meeting held at Lok Seva Bhawan.
Emphasising Odisha's ancient maritime heritage, Garg directed officials to make greater efforts to showcase the state's historic links with the wider world and take the legacy of Odisha's maritime trade to a global audience.
The historic festival is scheduled to begin on November 24, 2026.
According to Cuttack Collector Dattatraya Bhausaheb Shinde, visitor footfall at Bali Yatra has been increasing steadily. Around 65 lakh people visited the festival in 2025, with nearly 12 lakh visitors recorded in a single day.
The previous edition featured 396 vending zones and generated business worth more than Rs 400 crore. ORMAS alone recorded business of around Rs 57 crore, with traders and participants from 24 states taking part.
Indonesia to Be Partner Country
Indonesia is expected to participate as the partner country at Bali Yatra 2026. The Tourism Department is also planning a range of programmes on the Mahanadi to enhance the festival experience.
As part of efforts to reconnect Odisha with its ancient maritime links, the government is also discussing a “Taking It to Bali” initiative. A high-level delegation may be sent to Bali in Indonesia, while a cultural troupe from Bali is also expected to participate in the festival.
Bigger Focus on Green Bali Yatra
One of the key decisions this year is to make Bali Yatra a completely plastic-free and green festival. The government plans to create awareness among visitors and coordinate with different departments to ensure better environmental management.
Environment and Climate Change Minister Ganesh Ram Singh Khuntia stressed the need for public cooperation to make the initiative successful.
Parking and Transport Arrangements
This year's Bali Yatra will be organised across both the Upper and Lower Grounds. Half of Chahata Road has been earmarked for parking, while additional bus services will be arranged to transport visitors from parking areas to the festival grounds.
More Stalls, Fewer Stages
For cultural programmes, the number of stages will be reduced from three to two.
To promote local businesses and artisans, ORMAS will set up around 500 stalls. Special vending zones will be created at different locations for street vendors, while handloom and handicraft stalls will be placed at prominent locations.
Officials were directed to expedite preparations, including arrangements related to land, infrastructure and other essential facilities, so that the festival can be conducted in a safe and organised manner.
The meeting was attended by senior officials from the Home, Industries, Information and Public Relations, Women and Child Development, Tourism and Culture departments, along with senior officers of the Cuttack district administration and the Bhubaneswar-Cuttack Commissionerate Police.
