The Odia community in London commemorated Bali Yatra with a Maritime Heritage Summit at the UK Parliament, celebrating Odisha’s culture and global maritime legacy
OdishaPlus Bureau
Bali Yatra was commemorated in London by the Odia community on Friday and Saturday. A Global South Maritime Heritage Summit took place at the House of Lords on Friday, which not only highlighted the historical journeys of the ‘sadhabas’ (sailors) but also emphasized the significance of this tradition in today’s world. The following day honored Odisha’s culture and traditions at Riddlesdown Collegiate in Croydon. “As Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated during the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas-2025, every Indian abroad serves as a brand ambassador for our state and our nation.
This summit at the UK Parliament presents a significant opportunity to highlight Odisha’s maritime heritage and India’s re-emerging role in the global economy. Through this event, we celebrate not only our history but also India’s ambition to lead the Global South in sustainable innovation and international collaboration,” remarked Arun Kar, founder of Xpertnest and one of the event’s organizers.
With over 115 dignitaries and thought leaders present, the speakers at the summit concentrated on working together to achieve a circular economy and promote sustainable innovation. “We had provided a historical overview of Bali Yatra to the parliamentarians in the invitation to raise awareness about our culture and establish a contemporary connection,” stated Sweta Mohanty, spokesperson for the organizing committee. A special message from Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi was presented to the audience.
