Bhubaneswar: Commemorating the launch of direct flight operations between Bhubaneswar and Dubai, a special cultural evening ‘Odisha Dibas’ was held at hotel Le Meridien in Dubai today.
Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik virtually addressed the gathering of more than 1000 participants which included Odia Diaspora in UAE, Middle East and dignitaries.
The event kicked off with mesmerising cultural performances by local troupes form Odisha arranged by Department of Odia Language, Literature and Culture. The main event was launched with the video clip of Chief Minister’s announcement of flight commencement followed by the people boarding the inaugural flight.
Congratulating the Odisha government on this landmark step towards improving the state’s global connectivity, Consulate General of India in Dubai Dr Aman Puri spoke on how the commencement of direct connectivity between global city Dubai and Odisha will create unparalleled opportunities for the state and connect the state to the world.
He expressed confidence that the Odia Diaspora and the Indian Diaspora in UAE and Middle East will take advantage of this direct connectivity to visit and explore ‘India’s Best Kept Secret.
Minister Ashok Chandra Panda and Development Commissioner Anu Garg also spoke on the occasion.
Secretary (5T) to Chief Minister VK Pandian interacted with the delegates in an engaging session and outlined the government’s transformation agenda that relies on Technology, Teamwork, Timeliness and Transparency leading to Transformation.
The welcome address was delivered given by Dilip Routray, Director, Odisha Parivar while the vote of thanks was rendered by Sachin R Jadhav, Director Tourism.
During the event, Odisha Parivar showcased a video outlining the activities and initiatives taken by the state government to bring Odia diaspora together across the globe. It concluded with a starry performance by Odisha-born Bollywood singer Rituraj followed by dinner with menu celebrating Odia cuisine.
