Grand Barabati Replica Unveiled for Bali Yatra Festival |
Cuttack: A massive welcome arch replicating the historic Barabati Fort has been erected as the centrepiece of this year’s Bali Yatra, the ancient maritime festival beginning on Friday on Kartik Purnima.
The 50-ft-high and 100-ft-wide replica, constructed near the lower Bali Yatra ground along the Mahanadi river, pays tribute to Cuttack’s millennium-old heritage. The structure took 18 days to complete, with 23 artisans working to create an authentic representation using plywood, sun board, POP and various colours.
“Cuttack is known for its fort, which symbolises the city’s majestic era. The replica will offer visitors a unique visual treat,” said Cuttack collector Dattatraya Bhausaheb Shinde. He added that the installation serves as a gateway to the festival, connecting the city’s rich heritage with the spirit of Baliyatra.
Lead artist Ananta Pradhan, who oversaw the construction, said the replica includes historical information about the fort. “We’ve focused on creating an accurate representation that will serve as both an educational landmark and a popular photo spot for visitors,” Pradhan said.
The installation is expected to boost attendance at the maritime festival, which celebrates the ancient trade relations between Odisha and Southeast Asian countries. The replica’s strategic placement at the festival entrance creates a grand welcome for visitors while highlighting Cuttack’s cultural significance.
The project was completed on Thursday, just in time for the festival’s opening, and stands as a testament to the city’s commitment to preserving and showcasing its historical legacy.
The 50-ft-high and 100-ft-wide replica, constructed near the lower Bali Yatra ground along the Mahanadi river, pays tribute to Cuttack’s millennium-old heritage. The structure took 18 days to complete, with 23 artisans working to create an authentic representation using plywood, sun board, POP and various colours.
“Cuttack is known for its fort, which symbolises the city’s majestic era. The replica will offer visitors a unique visual treat,” said Cuttack collector Dattatraya Bhausaheb Shinde. He added that the installation serves as a gateway to the festival, connecting the city’s rich heritage with the spirit of Baliyatra.
Lead artist Ananta Pradhan, who oversaw the construction, said the replica includes historical information about the fort. “We’ve focused on creating an accurate representation that will serve as both an educational landmark and a popular photo spot for visitors,” Pradhan said.
The installation is expected to boost attendance at the maritime festival, which celebrates the ancient trade relations between Odisha and Southeast Asian countries. The replica’s strategic placement at the festival entrance creates a grand welcome for visitors while highlighting Cuttack’s cultural significance.
The project was completed on Thursday, just in time for the festival’s opening, and stands as a testament to the city’s commitment to preserving and showcasing its historical legacy.
