Bhubaneswar: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) Convention at Janata Maidan, Bhubaneswar, highlighting the rich cultural legacy of Odisha and the achievements of the Indian diaspora. He welcomed participants to the sacred land of Lord Jagannath and Lingaraj, emphasizing the state’s iconic sites like the Konark Sun Temple, Dhauli, and its vibrant Bali Yatra festival.
Modi expressed pride in India’s progress, noting the nation’s emergence as the fifth-largest global economy and its trajectory toward becoming the third-largest. “Indians excel globally, and I am proud of you,” he remarked, underscoring the diaspora’s role as ambassadors of Indian culture and values.
Acknowledging the Diaspora’s Global Contributions
The Prime Minister highlighted how the Indian diaspora has earned admiration worldwide for their social values and cultural integration. “We respect the traditions of our host countries while contributing to their growth, all while our hearts continue to beat for Bharat,” he stated. Modi also pointed out that in the last decade, India has lifted 250 million people out of poverty, showcasing the nation’s development strides.
Special Initiatives and Exhibitions
The event featured the virtual launch of the Pravasi Bharatiya Express, a special tourist train for the diaspora. The train will journey to key cultural and religious destinations over three weeks, celebrating India’s heritage.
Four unique exhibitions were also inaugurated:
Vishwaroop Ram – The Universal Legacy of Ramayana: Showcasing the timeless epic through traditional and contemporary art.
Diaspora’s Contribution to Technology and Viksit Bharat: Recognizing the diaspora’s impact on global technological advancement.
Spread and Evolution of Indian Diaspora: Documenting migration stories, with a focus on Mandvi to Muscat.
Heritage and Culture of Odisha: Highlighting the state’s art, craft, and historical legacy.
Strengthening Bonds Through Pravasi Bharatiya Divas
The convention, organized by the Central and Odisha state governments, runs from January 8 to 10 under the theme “Diaspora’s Contribution to a Viksit Bharat.” Delegates from over 50 countries have joined to celebrate the Indian diaspora’s achievements and cultural connections.
Modi also acknowledged the visionary leadership of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee in establishing the PBD. Coinciding with the anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi’s return to India in 1915, the event resonates with historical and cultural significance.
The convention will conclude with closing remarks from President Droupadi Murmu, who will present the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Awards. As Modi put it, “Together, we celebrate India, Indian-ness, our culture, progress, and our roots,” marking the event as a vibrant celebration of India’s connection with its global community.
