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Paradip (Orissa): In the backdrop of the roaring sea and glazing sands under halogen lights, the Kalinga Baliyatra-2008 got off to a colourful start at the Biju Maidan here on Wednesday evening.
Fisheries and Animal Husbandry Minister Golak Bihari Nayak, accompanied by MPs Prasanna Patsani and Brahmananda Panda, former Minister Damodar Rout, MLA Umesh Swain, municipality chairperson Govinda Tarei and Paradip Port Trust secretary Pravat Nanda, inaugurated the week-long festival at a function presided over by district Collector Pramod Kumar Meherda.
Speaking on the occasion, the guests reiterated the State’s rich cultural heritage, particularly its glorious maritime tradition. The organisers said the festival, along with the Pallishree Mela and cultural functions, would continue till November 18.
Former Chief Minister Biju Patnaik had started Baliyatra and the Boita Bandan Utsav at Paradip in 1992 and the practice still continues as a tribute to the legendary leader. Every year, the Chief Minister used to inaugurate the festival, but this year he is not attending any ceremonial function due to the recent devastating floods.
The PPT had also organised Boita Bandan, in which its chairman performed the rituals and floated a decorated boat in the sea on Thursday.
