Odisha’s Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida today inaugurated the first edition of the Chilika Traditional Boat Race at Barkul, marking a historic milestone for the state’s tourism and cultural promotion efforts.
Speaking at the event, the Deputy CM Parida described Chilika as a unique treasure of natural wealth. “The arrival of migratory birds from abroad, the boating experience, the traditional fishing and boat-rowing techniques of our fishermen, and their way of life on this vast water body leave tourists spellbound,” she said.
She added that the state government is committed to protecting the lake’s ecology, preserving the traditional livelihoods of fishermen, and encouraging greater influx of migratory birds. These efforts, she emphasised, will position Chilika as an even stronger international tourist destination while contributing to the vision of a developed Odisha and a developed India.
The inaugural ceremony was attended by Khalikote MLA Purna Chandra Sethi, Khordha MLA Prashant Kumar Jagdev, Tourism Department Principal Secretary Balwant Singh, Director Sri Dipankar Mahapatra, Ganjam District Collector Amrit Ruturaj, and several senior officials.
Organised by the Odisha Tourism Department, the competition saw participation from 81 traditional boat teams representing fishermen’s committees from Puri, Khordha, and Ganjam districts. On the opening day, 45 teams competed in preliminary heats over a 700-metre course on the lake. Qualifying teams will advance to the final round.
Extensive safety arrangements were in place, with fire services, scuba divers, Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF), and police personnel deployed to ensure participant and spectator safety.
The event highlights Chilika’s rich cultural and ecological significance while promoting sustainable tourism and showcasing the skill and heritage of local fishing communities.
