Kartik Purnima, which is one of the most important celebrations for the Hindus around the month of October, begins right after the observation of the Bali Yatra. It is this time of the month when the moon is full and it was considered a sacred time of the year and the best time, indeed, for men to set sail into a land far away from theirs. This continued for about a week after commencement of the celebration. Scientifically speaking, though, this time was deemed good for the sailors because the winds were adequate for the sails to take them to the south East Asian lands. And so to mark this day, celebrations are plenty in Cuttack during this day. A large fair or mela takes place in the Barbati fort area in the city. There are many events for fun that would take place during this mela. Children and the younger crowd love this occasion because there are many things that they can do. Toys and other gifts are sold at the different sold at the different stalls in the mela. In addition to that, there are several food items that are sold which are made only in Orissa.
This event, although very dear to the people of Orissa specifically, witnesses people who come from all across the nation. One of the most adorable events during this celebration is when little children gather at the Mahanadi River and set sail a bunch of little boats that are made of colour paper. Those who cannot reach the Mahanadi River float boats in the ponds and lakes that are nearby. And these little boats usually have oil lamps in them. Also, there is a folk song that is sung in order to commemorate this day. As legend goes, this song was sung by the sailors as they set on their voyage. It is about the four significant months for the sailors and their expedition. For the tourists who go here on this day, there are many boat rides in store for their merriment.