The much-awaited Pravasi Bharatiya Divas is about to begin in Bhubaneswar, the capital of Odisha, marking a significant event for the region. This year’s gathering has drawn an impressive turnout of non-resident Indians (NRIs) and diaspora members worldwide, demonstrating their keen interest in being part of this important celebration.
Odisha, as the host state, has prepared extensively to ensure our guests receive a warm and traditional welcome. Organized by the Ministry of External Affairs, this biennial event is a great opportunity to express gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for selecting Bhubaneswar as the venue. Leaders such as the Prime Minister, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, and numerous senior Cabinet ministers will be in attendance.
The Prime Minister’s vision aligns well with the goals of this event. As India continues to grow, the global influence and reputation of the Indian diaspora play an important role. The idea of ‘Viksit Bharat’ (Developed India) can flourish through the strong emotional ties that Indians abroad have with their homeland. The 35.4 million Indians living overseas are considered natural ambassadors for the country, bringing their skills, resources, and international experience with them.
Bhubaneswar is showcasing its rich cultural heritage in preparation for this grand occasion, hosting numerous events like Patha Utsav, Ekamra Utsav, and Adivasi Mela, alongside various cultural exhibitions. Special highlights include the Raja Rani Music Festival and the Mukteshwar Dance Festival, with traditional Odissi performances adding to the cultural richness. The nearby city of Puri will host sand art displays and beach festivals, further emphasizing the artistic talents of the region.
The organizing committee has arranged visits to 31 popular tourist spots across Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, Puri, and Konark. A dedicated pavilion at Janata Maidan will highlight the culture of Jagannath, the historical Bali Yatra, and the remarkable journey of Emperor Ashoka. For guest convenience, modern transport options, including double-decker buses, have been set up. The event will also welcome over 200 international journalists, content creators, and bloggers from seven countries.
This convention is more than just a gathering; it’s a chance to reconnect the Indian diaspora with their roots and heritage. As the first major event of its kind in eastern India, it highlights the Prime Minister’s commitment to developing this region through initiatives like Purvodaya, which focuses on progress in eastern India with Odisha at the heart of it.
Under PM Modi’s leadership, India’s cultural diplomacy has reached new heights. His personal connection with Odisha is evident in his frequent acknowledgments of the state’s culture, such as celebrating Cuttack’s Bali Yatra during his visit to Indonesia and discussing the Konark Chakra’s significance at the G20 summit.
The Prime Minister’s humble beginnings have shaped his understanding of the grassroots challenges faced by citizens. His policies have benefitted many, ranging from financial inclusions like bank accounts to essential facilities such as toilets and clean drinking water. His multiple visits and overnight stays in Odisha show his commitment to the state’s development.
As we welcome our guests under the Indian philosophy of ‘Atithi Devo Bhava’ (The guest is God), we hope their experience in Odisha strengthens connections and encourages investments in the state. This convention not only aims to showcase Odisha’s potential but also to reinforce ties between residents and the diaspora.
We invite all citizens of Odisha to participate actively in making this event a success by promoting cleanliness and discipline in the city. This occasion presents a unique opportunity to display our hospitality, culture, and developmental strengths to the world.
The gathering of the Indian diaspora in Bhubaneswar symbolizes a growing confidence in India’s future, with Odisha poised to play a key role. As we strive towards building a developed India, Odisha is ready to contribute significantly to this national vision, inspired by the Prime Minister’s leadership and supported by our global Indian community.
