Bali Yatra And Boita Bandana #AToZChallenge

Odisha celebrates many festivals and several 'Yatra'.
In ancient times, enterprising sons of Odisha, traders referred to as Sadhaba & Sadhaba-pua used to sail from Odisha's ports in huge boats to foreign lands like Bali, Java, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, Borneo etc.

At Bali Jatra venue, Cuttack

Boats are present in the handicrafts, handlooms and art of Odisha like in the framed Pattachitra (painting) below.

Pattachitra Art depicting the welcome for the Sadhaba-pua

The expeditions usually commenced on Kartik Purnima, the full moon day in November. Women prayed for their safe travel. When the Sadhaba-pua returned safely from their trip, they were received with much fanfare and celebration.
Bali Jatra and Boita Bandana reflect and commemorate the rich maritime trade and history of Odisha.

Rath Yatra Puri

Today is Asadha Shukla Dwitiya, the second day of the bright lunar fortnight of the month of Asadha.

It is celebrated as Rath Yatra or #RathaJatra.

A painting of the Rath Yatra

This year, Rath Yatra is on 29th June.

The Rath Yatra festival began in the Shri Jagannath Temple, Puri, Odisha, India.

Rath Yatra of Shri Jagannath Temple, Puri, Odisha ; Image Source

Rath means Chariot/Car while Yatra  means Travel.

Rath Yatra is a centuries-old cultural festival.