New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi today joined the vibrant celebrations of Odisha Parba 2024 at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, New Delhi, where he paid homage to the state’s cultural heritage, historical contributions, and future aspirations. Addressing a gathering of Odia brothers and sisters, he lauded Odisha as a land of saints, scholars, and brave hearts while emphasizing its strategic role in India’s growth trajectory.
Marking the centenary of the death anniversary of Swabhav Kavi Gangadhar Meher, PM Modi paid heartfelt tributes to him along with other luminaries like Bhakta Dasia Bhauri, Bhakta Salabega, and Shri Jagannath Das, the writer of the Oriya Bhagavatha. Highlighting Odisha’s literary wealth, he noted the significance of works such as Sarala Mahabharat and Odiya Bhagawat, which brought spirituality to the common people’s doorstep.
Recalling the rich legacy of Mahaprabhu Jagannath, PM Modi shared a tale of Lord Jagannath’s simplicity, where he partook of curd from a devotee’s hands before heading to the battlefield. He underscored the lesson that “if we work with good intentions, God himself leads the way.”
Quoting Odia poet Bhim Bhoi, he reflected on the region’s ethos of self-sacrifice for the greater good and praised Puri Dham for strengthening the spirit of Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat. The Prime Minister also commemorated the brave sons of Odisha who played pivotal roles in the country’s freedom struggle, particularly the martyrs of the Paika Kranti.
PM Modi acknowledged the ongoing celebration of the 125th birth anniversary of Utkal Kesari Hare Krishna Mehtab and highlighted the leadership Odisha has provided to the nation, exemplified by President Draupadi Murmu. He noted her influence in launching welfare schemes worth thousands of crores for the tribal communities across India.
Emphasizing women’s empowerment, the Prime Minister cited the strength of Mata Subhadra as an inspiration for Odisha’s progress. He also mentioned the recently launched Subhadra Yojana, aimed at uplifting women in the state.
PM Modi spotlighted Odisha’s maritime legacy, referencing the recently concluded Bali Jatra, a celebration of India’s historical trade links with Southeast Asia. He emphasized Odisha’s potential as a hub for port-based industrial development, citing ongoing projects at Dhamra, Gopalpur, and Subarnarekha, which aim to boost trade and economic growth.
Calling Odisha a “mining and metal powerhouse,” he underlined its contributions to the steel, aluminum, and energy sectors. Efforts to promote cashew, jute, cotton, turmeric, and seafood processing were also highlighted, with the goal of making Odisha’s products a global brand.
The Prime Minister noted a significant increase in the central government’s budget allocation for Odisha, now three times higher than a decade ago. He praised the state government’s efforts under Chief Minister Mohan Charan Manjhi and cited a recent approval of ₹45,000 crore in investments within 100 days of the new administration.
He also outlined the government’s vision to develop Odisha’s tier-two cities, enhance urban infrastructure, and position the state as a preferred destination for investors.
PM Modi celebrated Odisha’s rich artistic traditions, from Odissi dance to the intricate craftsmanship of Sambalpuri textiles and Pattachitra paintings. He urged greater efforts to preserve and promote these art forms globally, suggesting events like Bali Jatra Day and Odissi Day.
He also highlighted Odisha’s architectural marvels, including the Sun Temple at Konark and the Jagannath Temple, as inspirations for tourism and cultural exchange.
With Odisha’s centenary of statehood approaching in 2036, PM Modi envisioned the state as a leader in economic growth, cultural preservation, and global connectivity. “Odisha’s strategic location makes it a crucial hub for domestic and international trade,” he said, expressing confidence in its role as a growth engine for India’s development.
Concluding his address, PM Modi urged the expansion of events like Odisha Parba to foster greater participation and awareness. “Odisha is a land of immense possibilities,” he remarked, emphasizing the need to blend tradition with modernity to propel the state to new heights.
The event was attended by Union Ministers Ashwini Vaishnaw and Dharmendra Pradhan, along with dignitaries such as Siddharth Pradhan, President of Odia Samaj.