Bhubaneswar, Jan 10 (UNI) Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Friday urged the Indian diaspora to actively participate in the overall progress and prosperity of both the nation and the state of Odisha.
Addressing the closing ceremony of the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) Convention here, Majhi said, “Over the past few days, we have witnessed a melting of hearts, felt the warmth of belonging, shared a convergence of ideas, thought beyond borders, built bridges, and pledged to walk together towards a prosperous future.”
He expressed delight at the success of the three-day celebration of friendship and solidarity with Indian brothers and sisters living abroad, calling it a splendid and spectacular experience.
“With your presence, Odisha looks happier than ever before. Your presence has lit the lamps of love and faith like never before,” the Chief Minister remarked.
He called the event a historic occasion for Bhubaneswar, describing the city as vibrant with light, colors, music, dance, and flowers.
“The city is now in a festive mood,” he said, adding that splendid events such as the Sea Beach Festival in Puri, the Bird Festival at Chilika, and serene gatherings at Buddhist heritage sites like Lalitgiri, Ratnagiri, and Dhauli had been organized to celebrate the occasion.
Majhi encouraged the diaspora to visit Odisha’s natural and cultural heritage sites.
“For many of you, this may have been your first experience of Odisha. I urge you to keep coming back,” he said.
The Chief Minister invited them to recommend Odisha to their foreign friends, encouraging visits to explore the state’s rich art, culture, architectural wonders, spiritual serenity, and warm hospitality.

“Here, they will rejuvenate their spirits with the hymns of peace and the embrace of heartfelt hospitality,” he said.
“Come and feel the vibrations of endless love and brotherhood. Experience the magnetism and melody of simplicity, imbued with sober vibes. We share a covalent bond of belief and hope,” Majhi added.
He extended his gratitude to the eminent panelists for their insightful analyses and congratulated the recipients of the “Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Awards” and the winners of the “Bharat Ko Janiye Quiz.”
Majhi also thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his support and encouragement.
Quoting the Prime Minister’s words, “This is the time, and this is the perfect time,” he urged everyone to follow them in both letter and spirit.
“This will fuel our passion to achieve revolutionary progress and exemplary feats for our nation,” the Chief Minister emphasized.
He also expressed gratitude to External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar for ensuring the event’s grand success.
“With this event, Odisha is now more open to the world than ever before. The world sees limitless opportunities in Odisha,” Majhi said.
The Chief Minister announced that a Nodal Minister from the Department of Odia Language, Literature, and Culture would be appointed to facilitate engagement with the diaspora for
projects and investments.
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