Bhubaneswar: The Odisha capital is in its final phase of preparations to host Pravasi Bharatiya Divas 2025, slated for January 8. With thousands of overseas Indians expected to attend, the state government is pulling out all the stops to ensure a seamless and memorable experience.
Housing and Urban Development Minister Dr. Krushna Chandra Mohapatra led an extensive inspection today, reviewing sanitation, road conditions, and beautification efforts across key routes, including Airport Chowk, Nandankanan, and Janata Maidan. Traditional Odisha wall paintings now grace the city streets, while thorough cleaning and beautification of roadsides and public areas are in full swing.
Dr. Mohapatra emphasized swift action to address any potholes, uneven surfaces, or neglected areas. “Our aim is to present Bhubaneswar as a city that reflects its heritage, culture, and hospitality,” he said. The Minister also directed that trees and fences be freshly painted to enhance the city’s aesthetic appeal.
Adding a cultural dimension to the event, Bhubaneswar will host a food festival and tribal fair at the exhibition grounds, offering guests a chance to savor traditional Odia cuisine. Special arrangements have been made for NRIs to visit Puri in newly introduced double-decker buses. The visit includes Jagannath Darshan and participation in the sacred offerings at the iconic Jagannath Temple.
Dr. Mohapatra called on businesses, corporate entities, and residents to join the city’s cleanliness drive by maintaining their premises. “This is a collective effort to showcase our city’s warmth and community spirit,” he said.
Senior officials, including Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) Commissioner Rajesh Prabhakar Patil and Bhubaneswar Development Authority (BDA) Vice-Chairperson Tirumala Nayak, accompanied the Minister during the inspection. Teams from the BMC, BDA, and other departments are working tirelessly to ensure readiness for the event.
Pravasi Bharatiya Divas celebrates the contributions of overseas Indians to the development of their homeland. With meticulous planning and community participation, Bhubaneswar is set to welcome the world, showcasing Odisha’s rich cultural heritage and hospitality.
