Cuttack, Nov 11: The tranquil waters of the Mahanadi echoed with cheers and rhythmic drumbeats as Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida flagged off the Mahanadi Boita Race 2025 today, marking the commencement of an exciting two-day spectacle celebrating Odisha’s deep maritime traditions and the historic spirit of Bali Yatra.
Organised by the Department of Tourism in collaboration with the Cuttack district administration, the event brings together sport, culture, and heritage in a vibrant confluence along the stretch between Garadia Ghat and Silver City Boat Club.
The Mahanadi Boita Race draws its inspiration from the ancient Sadhabas (maritime traders) of Odisha who once set sail from the Mahanadi River to distant shores of Bali, Java, Sumatra, and Sri Lanka, carrying with them the spirit of commerce, culture, and friendship. The race forms a key highlight of the Bali Yatra celebrations, symbolising Odisha’s age-old connection with the seas and its enduring maritime legacy.
Following the grand flag-off, the riverfront witnessed a spectacular Fly Boat Show, captivating audiences with stunning formations and speed displays. The excitement continued with the start of the Boat Race Tournament, featuring competitive formats of 1,000 meters, 500 meters, and 200 meters, testing the endurance and synchrony of participating teams.
A total of 15 teams from across India took part in the competition — including 10 men’s teams and 5 women’s teams representing Bihar, Delhi, Haryana, Jharkhand, Punjab, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Odisha, making the event a vibrant showcase of sporting spirit and national unity on the waters of the Mahan
Speaking at the occasion, Parida said, “The Mahanadi Boita Race is more than a competition — it is a tribute to the courage and enterprise of our ancestors who navigated the seas and built Odisha’s maritime legacy. The event connects our glorious past with the aspirations of a vibrant, youthful Odisha today.”
Also present at the ceremony were Akhila Chandra Naik, Telkoi MLA; Souvic Biswal, Choudwar MLA; Balwant Singh, Commissioner-cum-Secretary, Tourism; Umashankar Das, D.I.G. Home Guards and Fire Services; Deepankar Mohapatra, Director, Tourism; Dattatraya B Shinde, Collector, Cuttack; Khilari Rishikesh Dnyandeo, DCP Cuttack; and Kirandeep Kaur Sahota, Commissioner, CMC.
