Bali Jatra: How Odisha's Ancient Mariners Sailed India To The World | Out Of Britain

Each year, millions gather on the banks of the Mahanadi in Cuttack to celebrate Bali Jatra, India's largest open-air trade and cultural fair. In this episode of Out Of Britain, NDTV's Radhika Iyer explores how the festival keeps alive the memory of ancient Odia sailors, known as Sadhabas, who once sailed to Bali, Java, and Sri Lanka for trade centuries ago. Through dance, food and storytelling, the community celebrates its maritime past - a legacy of courage, craftsmanship and cultural exchange that connected India to Southeast Asia long before modern navigation.