PM Modi inaugurates 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention In Odisha

Bhubaneswar, Jan 9: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas convention in Bhubaneswar, Odisha today.

Welcoming all the delegates and diaspora from various parts of the world, Modi expressed confidence that the inauguration song would be played in the various Indian diaspora events, across the globe, in future. He lauded the Grammy award winning artiste Ricky Kej and his team for the wonderful rendition which captured the emotions and feelings of the Indian diaspora. 

Thanking the Chief Guest, Christine Carla Kangaloo, President of the Republic of Trinidad & Tobago for the warm and affectionate words in her video message, the Prime Minister remarked that she was also talking about India’s progress and her words left an impact on all of them present at the event. Noting that now was the time for vibrant festivals and gatherings in India, Modi said that in a few days, the Maha Kumbh would commence in Prayagraj and the festival of Makar Sankranti, Lohri, Pongal and Maag Bihu were also coming up.

He added that there was a joyful atmosphere everywhere. Recalling that it was on this day in 1915, Mahatma Gandhiji returned to India after a long stay abroad, Modi remarked that the presence of the diaspora in India at such a wonderful time added to the festive spirit.

Remarking that this edition of Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) was special for another reason, he said, the event was held after a few days of the birth centenary of Atal Bihari Vajpayee, whose vision was instrumental to PBD. “Pravasi Bharatiya Divas has become an institution to strengthen the bond between India and its diaspora”, he further added. Modi highlighted that together we celebrate India, Indianness, our culture and progress along with connecting to our roots.

“The great land of Odisha, where we have gathered, is a reflection of India’s rich heritage”, exclaimed Modi. He added that at every step we could witness our heritage in Odisha. The Prime Minister remarked that everyone would be filled with pride when one visits the historical caves of Udayagiri and Khandagiri, or the magnificent Sun temple of Konark or the ancient ports of Tamralipti, Manikpatna and Palur. Noting that hundreds of years ago, the traders and merchants from Odisha  undertook long marine voyages to places like Bali, Sumatra and Java, the Prime Minister said that Bali Yatra is celebrated even today in Odisha in its memory.

He further added that Dhauli, a significant historical site in Odisha, represented the symbol of peace. He also noted that Samrat Ashoka had chosen the path of peace here  while the world was expanding empires through the power of the sword. Modi urged that this legacy inspires India to tell the world that the future lies in Buddha and not in war. Therefore, he remarked that welcoming everyone to the land of Odisha is very special for him.