Lights, Music, and Culture — Bali Yatra Captivates Thousands in Cuttack
Cuttack: The historic Bali Yatra entered its sixth day on Monday, drawing large crowds eager to enjoy shopping, food, and entertainment with their families. While Bollywood and Ollywood artists have been enthralling audiences every evening, Monday night saw an even bigger turnout as a spectacular laser light show became the highlight of the day. The show was organized by Sharad Advertising Pvt. Ltd., Bhubaneswar, and won hearts with its dazzling display.
The mesmerizing performances and the smooth management of the event once again showcased Odisha’s rich cultural heritage through this grand fair. Visitors thronged the venue in huge numbers, soaking in the festive spirit. One of the main attractions was the laser show set over the vast expanse of water near the historic Bali Jatra ground, where colorful beams of light and synchronized music created a breathtaking visual spectacle. Organizers said it was among the most talked-about features of this year’s festival, drawing massive crowds who cheered and applauded throughout the performance.
Along with the laser show, the Baishnab Pani stage hosted a vibrant orchestra “Geet Sagar”, which enthralled the audience with popular Ollywood and Bollywood melodies. Cultural programs such as “Baliyatra – Baliru Muthe Kahani” by Nabakalika (Cuttack), “Neela Shaila” by Dashaabhuja Gotipua Odissi Nrutya Parishad (Puri), “Gitinatya Bheem Bhoi” by Dhenkanal Kala Parishad, a Bhangra performance from Punjab, “Kali Mangala Charan” by Bharatiya Kala Sanskriti Trust, “Jahna Re Jahna Palli Nrutya” by Nrutyasha (Cuttack), Gedi folk dance by Lok Srirang Bharati (Chhattisgarh), and “Remix Choreographic Bengal Folk Art” by EZCC (Eastern Zonal Cultural Centre) kept the audience spellbound.
At the Akshaya Mohanty Stage, the evening continued with devotional and folk performances dedicated to the late musical legend. Highlights included “Akshaya Mohanty Bhakti Sangeet” by Nishiprava Pani (Amrit Music Odia), “Laudi Folk” by Ashok Behera (Banki), “Devi Act” by Vivekananda Mohanty (Charu Nrutyan, Puri), “Kanjhar Nrutya” by Anugraha Cultural Council (Kandhamal), “Nagendra Haraya” Odissi by Sugyani Mahapatra (Cuttack), and “Draupadi Cheeraharan” dance by Rozalin Sahoo — all of which drew continuous applause from the crowd.
As every year, this edition of Bali Jatra features several Ollywood and Bollywood singers and stars, entertaining thousands daily. Visitors are also enjoying rides, water attractions, and various fun activities. With the growing footfall, authorities have tightened security arrangements across the Mahanadi riverfront.
The grand trade fair, often described as the largest commercial fair of Odisha, will continue till November 12 along the riverbank, featuring a wide range of stalls offering food, handicrafts, and merchandise. The Baishnab Pani Stage continues to host daily cultural programs, and this year, the event’s smooth management has earned widespread appreciation for the administration on social media.