Pravasi Bharatiya Divas 2025 to celebrate Odisha heritage and advancement, explore opportunities

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On January 8, 2025, Bhubaneswar will play host to a celebration of heritage, innovation, and collaboration, as the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) convention opens in the capital of Odisha.

The flagship event dedicated to honoring the contributions of the Indian diaspora, expects more than 3,000 delegates from across the globe, a press release from organizers said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the convention on January 9, and President of India, Droupadi Murmu, will preside over the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Awards on January 10. Joining the celebrations as Chief Guest will be President of Trinidad and Tobago Christine Carla Kangaloo.

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The theme of the18^th PBD Convention is “Diaspora’s Contribution to a Viksit Bharat.” It concludes on January 10.

The Government of India (GOI) sees PBD as a testament to the global Indian community’s transformative role in shaping India’s growth story. From their $120 billion in annual remittances in 2023 (expected to grow to $129 billion in 2025), to their role as ambassadors of Indian culture and innovation, the diaspora’s contributions are “unparalleled” including through their entrepreneurial ventures, knowledge transfer and social impact.

This year’s convention will also explore explore avenues for greater collaboration in business, tourism, and sustainable development.

Local entrepreneurs and small and medium enterprises (SMEs) will have the opportunity to connect with their global counterparts, share expertise, and explore opportunities, and potentially foster mentorships.

Delegates will also visit Odisha’s treasures, from the Puri Jagannath Temple to the Dhauli Ashokan relics, showcasing the state’s immense tourism potential. “With its strategic location and 482-km coastline, Odisha presents significant investment avenues in tourism, infrastructure, and green energy,” GOI envisages.

In preparation for the signature event, Bhubaneswar has undergone a transformation – from traditional art installations to state-of-the-art lighting, and efforts to ensure seamless logistics, special training for senior government officials, events planned by local authorities like the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation, the Bhubaneswar Development Authority, the state culture and tourism departments etc, to showcase the rich culture and traditions of Odisha.

These events include the Adivasi Mela, Rajarani Music Festival, Mukteshwar Dance Festival, Ekamra Mahotsav, Ekamra Flower Show, International Odissi Dance Festival, Food Festival amongst others, which all coincide with the prevailing Pravasi Bhartiya Diwas celebrations.

The Odisha-themed pavilion, Glorious Odisha: From Ancient to Modern, spanning 400 square meters, expects to offer a glimpse into the state’s heritage and industrial progress. Highlights include 3D replicas of the iconic Konark Sun Temple and Chilika Lake, complete with virtual wildlife and water elements; Traditional crafts like Pattachitra and applique work will be displayed alongside exhibits on Odisha’s advancements in steel, aluminum, and technology.

The Pravasi Bharatiya Divas 2025 serves as a bridge between India and its diaspora, fostering partnerships that align with India’s ‘Act East Policy’ and Modi’s ‘Purvodaya Mission’.

“Under the leadership of India’s Ministry of External Affairs, this NRI convention is a golden opportunity for the Odisha government to attract large investments in sectors like tourism, port-based infrastructure, and others,” organizers say.