India, Jan. 21 -- Long before borders were drawn and cuisines were categorised, Odisha's intrepid sailors embarked on daring maritime journeys that connected India's eastern coast with Southeast Asia and Sri Lanka.

These ancient voyages-known as Bali Jatra-were not merely about trade; they became conduits for the exchange of cultures, stories, and flavours that continue to echo across centuries.

Meaning "voyage," Jatraa draws inspiration from Odisha's seafaring past, when ships from ancient Kalinga sailed to Burma, Ceylon, Siam, Sumatra, Java, Bali, Malaya, Champa, the Khmer lands, and China. The menu reflects this rich confluence-where robust Odia flavours meet the vibrant culinary traditions of South and Southeast Asia, resulting in d...