Odisha gears up for historic Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas 2025 in Bhubaneswar – Times of India

Chief minister Mohan Charan Majhi reviews preparations for the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas

BHUBANESWAR: Chief minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Monday reviewed the preparations for the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas to be held in Bhubaneswar from January 8 to 10, 2025.
Majhi, during the meeting, mentioned that this is the first time the Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas, which started in 2003, is being held in Odisha.
“It is a golden opportunity to establish Odisha on the global stage. The Prime Minister also places great importance on this event. The event should be organised attractively and flawlessly to enhance Odisha’s image worldwide,” the CM said.
Majhi particularly emphasised the city’s cleanliness, stating that Bhubaneswar’s cleanliness should meet international standards. He suggested conducting a special cleanliness drive in Bhubaneswar involving local residents in the festival.
During the review, it was revealed that on the first day, January 8, the minister of foreign trade will attend; on the second day, January 9, the Prime Minister will participate; and on the final day, January 10, the President of India will grace the event.
The programme will include plenary sessions on topics like ‘Unraveling India’s Best Kept Secret’ and ‘Odisha – the Land of Opportunities.’ Additionally, various aspects of Odisha’s historical glory, art, sculpture, music, dance, tribal culture, language, literature, and tourist spots will be presented digitally and through other media. Odisha’s vision for 2036 and 2047 will also be showcased during the event.
During this period, approximately ten festivals will be organised in Bhubaneswar. These include the Rajarani Music Festival (January 7-11), Mukteshwar Dance Festival (January 7-11), International Odissi Dance Festival (January 7-11), Tribal Dance and Folk Art Festival (January 7-11), Tribal Fair (January 5-15), Chilika Bird Festival (January 6-12), Flower Show (January 7-11), Food Fest (January 8-10), and Night Flea Market (January 8-10).
“For this event, all roads in Bhubaneswar are being renovated, illuminated, and attractively decorated, with hotel bookings for guests ongoing,” a govt statement reads. It states that tourist spots are being beautified.
“Arrangements are being made to take guests to 28 tourist destinations in various cities like Bhubaneswar, Puri, Konark, and Jajpur,” the statement maintained.
Approximately 7,500 delegates are expected to participate. Over 3,700 rooms have been booked for guests, with some places offering homestay arrangements. Various committees formed for the smooth conduct of the programme are holding regular meetings to expedite preparations.