Kotpad: Kotpad, a region in Koraput district known for its lush forests and hills, is famous for its natural beauty as well as its unique festivals. One such major festival is Bali Yatra, an integral part of the Kotpad Block’s cultural heritage.
The festival begins only after seeking divine approval from Goddess Mashitala Thakurani and Lord Bhima, following which all religious rituals commence. This year, Bali Yatra started on February 25 in Kotpad town and will continue for 45 days. The festival follows the traditional tribal Hindu rituals, and more than 150 deities are worshipped in a single location.
According to experts, Bali Yatra is believed to bring prosperity, good harvests, and ample rainfall to the Kotpad region. Every year, thousands of devotees and visitors from far and wide gather to witness this grand festival. It is considered a symbol of communal harmony in Koraput district.
Unique Rituals and Celebrations
During the festival, priests and priestesses (Guru and Gurumaini) invoke the gods and goddesses from heaven, earth, and the underworld through ritualistic chanting. It is believed that the deities become spiritually present in the bodies of devotees, who then perform traditional dance rituals.
A special offering of Guda Pana (jaggery drink) and Lia Muha (puffed rice) is made to the deities. The main event of the festival is the “Bihana Sangraha” (seed collection ritual), where each household contributes grains such as paddy, moong, biri, ragi, mustard, and other crops, along with sand from the river.
At the end of Bali Yatra, a tree symbolizing prosperity is placed on bamboo frames and carried in a grand procession with traditional music, dance, and thousands of devotees. The idol of Lord Bhima is then ritually immersed in the temple premises.
Festival Occurrence and Revival
Bali Yatra is observed once every three to five years in different villages, depending on tradition. This year, after 19 long years, the festival has been celebrated with great enthusiasm in Bira Kotar village, Kotpad, with the active participation of thousands of villagers from different communities.