Bhubaneswar: Odisha is a reflection of India’s rich heritage, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said while inaugurating the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas at Janata Maidan in Bhubaneswar on Thursday.
Modi then went on to elaborate why welcoming everyone to the state was special for him.
Stating that the land steeped in heritage, he mentioned about historical caves of Udayagiri and Khandagiri, magnificent Sun Temple of Konark and the ancient ports of Tamralipti, Manikpatna and Palur. “Hundreds of years ago, traders and merchants from Odisha undertook long marine voyages to places like Bali, Sumatra and Java. To commemorate this event of history, Bali Jatra is celebrated even today in Odisha,” he said.
The PM further stated that Dhauli, a significant historical site in Odisha, represented the symbol of peace. “Samrat Ashoka had chosen the path of peace here while the world was expanding empires through the power of the sword,” he said adding that that this legacy inspires India to tell the world that the future lies in Buddha and not in war.
On the occasion, the PM also inaugurated four exhibitions, showcasing the vibrant & diverse culture of India.
>> Vishwaroop Ram – The Universal Legacy of Ramayana: This exhibition would present the timeless epic of Ramayana through a curated juxtaposition of traditional and contemporary art forms.
>> Diaspora’s Contribution to Technology and Viksit Bharat. This exhibition would acknowledge the contributions of the Indian diaspora to the development of technology in the world.
>> Spread and Evolution of Indian diaspora in the world with a special focus on Mandvi to Muscat. This exhibition will showcase rare documents of people who had migrated from Mandvi in Gujarat to Muscat in Oman.
>> Heritage and Culture of Odisha: The exhibition will showcase the rich heritage and cultural traditions of Odisha through its different art and craft forms and highlight its illustrious legacy.
The PBD, celebrated once every two years, honours the contributions of the Indian diaspora to their homeland. The 18th edition is being held in Odisha for the first time.
