With just a few days remaining for the three-day 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, the number of participants has seen a significant increase.
Rise in registrations
According to officials from the Department of Home, Government of Odisha, daily registrations have surged to over 150 in recent days, a notable rise from the 40-50 registrations per day a week ago.
The Government of Odisha aims to attract 3,500 non-resident Indians (NRIs) from approximately 50 countries for the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention, which begins on 9 January, 2025. With local participation included, the total number of attendees for the three-day event is expected to reach around 7,500, according to state government estimates.
The majority of registration requests have come from Indian residents in Southeast Asian countries, followed by those in Gulf nations and Europe. Participants from over 30 countries have expressed interest in attending this biennial event in Bhubaneswar.
Odisha boasts a 482-km coastline along Southeast Asia, and with its first-time hosting of the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD), the Government of Odisha is aiming to attract significant investment in sectors such as tourism and port-based infrastructure development.
Among the NRIs expressing interest in the event, the majority are from Kerala, Maharashtra, and Uttar Pradesh, with a notable number also coming from Odisha itself.
Since its inception in 2003 under Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas has been held in cities such as New Delhi, Mumbai, Kochi, Hyderabad, Jaipur, Chennai, Varanasi, Bengaluru, and Indore, with a virtual convention also taking place in 2021.
Odisha’s maiden tryst
For the first time, Bhubaneswar is set to host the flagship Pravasi Bharatiya Divas event in its 2025 edition. The city's civic authorities, in collaboration with key state government departments, have planned several activities alongside the conclave, including a night flea market, an Adivasi fair, and a food festival.
The growing interest in NRI participation is also evident in the surge of cab and hotel bookings for prominent tourist destinations like Puri and Konark.
“The majority of our tour and travel partners have confirmed increased cab and vacation stay bookings during the convention period. The numbers will only rise as the convention day nears,” mentioned Gagan Sarangi, Chairman, Odisha chapter of the Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO).
The 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) Conclave in Odisha aligns seamlessly with the Government of India’s 'Act East Policy,' which seeks to stimulate economic activity in the eastern regions of India by highlighting their investment potential.
The convention will begin with the Youth Pravasi Bharatiya Divas on 8 January, 2025. On the second day, the 18th PBD will be formally inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The event will conclude on the third day with the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman awards ceremony, where Droupadi Murmu, President of India will deliver the valedictory address.
Charm of Odisha: The Jewel of East India
Located on India’s eastern coast, Odisha is a cultural, historical, and natural gem. Known as the ‘Soul of Incredible India’, the state captivates travellers with its vibrant traditions, rich heritage, and stunning landscapes.
Among its many treasures is the UNESCO-listed Konark Sun Temple, a magnificent architectural marvel that showcases the region’s deep cultural roots. Another significant destination is Puri, home to the revered Jagannath Temple and the world-famous Rath Yatra, attracting millions of pilgrims and tourists each year. The serene beaches of Chandrabhaga, Gopalpur, and Puri Beach offer peaceful retreats, perfect for relaxation and exploration, alongside these spiritual landmarks.
Explore the diverse habitats of Odisha, including Chilika Lake, Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon, which serves as a sanctuary for migrating birds. Simlipal National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, offers thrilling wildlife encounters with rare flora, elephants, and tigers. Daringbadi, often referred to as the ‘Kashmir of Odisha’, is one of the state’s picturesque hill towns.
Odisha’s allure is further enriched by its vibrant tribal culture and traditional handicrafts, such as Sambalpuri textiles, stone carvings, and Pattachitra paintings. The state's festive atmosphere and cultural diversity come alive during celebrations like Durga Puja, Raja, and Chhau Dance performances.
With its improved infrastructure, ecotourism initiatives, and cultural growth, Odisha is emerging as a must-visit destination for travellers seeking unique and authentic experiences. The state warmly invites visitors to explore its timeless beauty and create unforgettable memories.
