Bhubaneswar: President of India Droupadi Murmu will begin her six-day official visit to Odisha from today, during which she will participate in a wide range of religious, academic, cultural and public programmes across five districts — Puri, Khordha, Balasore, Jajpur and Mayurbhanj. The visit holds special significance as it includes engagements in the President’s native region and interactions with tribal communities.
The President is scheduled to arrive in Bhubaneswar this evening, marking the start of her Odisha tour. On the first leg of her visit, she will travel to Jajpur, where she will offer prayers at the revered Maa Biraja Temple, the presiding deity of the district. On February 3, President Murmu will spend over one and a half hours at the shrine, performing rituals and interacting with temple authorities before proceeding to Balasore.
Convocation Address in Balasore
In Balasore, the President will attend the 12th convocation ceremony of Fakir Mohan University, where she is expected to address graduating students and faculty members. The visit underscores the importance of higher education and youth empowerment in national development. After the convocation, President Murmu will travel to Puri, where she will stay overnight.
Jagannath Temple Visit and Sacred Rituals
On February 4, President Murmu will be accorded a ceremonial welcome at the Singhadwara of the Shree Jagannath Temple by the Gajapati Maharaja, temple servitors and senior administrative officials. She will offer prayers to Lord Jagannath and perform Pinda Daan rituals at Swetaganga, following traditional customs.
Engagements in Mayurbhanj, Her Native District
Later the same day, the President will travel directly from Puri to Rairangpur in Mayurbhanj district, her native region. There, she will address a public gathering, interact with local residents, and inaugurate as well as lay foundation stones for multiple development projects, reflecting her focus on grassroots development and regional upliftment.
On the following day, President Murmu will visit the Jagannath Temple in Rairangpur before proceeding via Jashipur to the Similipal Tiger Reserve. Renowned for its rich biodiversity, Similipal will serve as the President’s overnight halt.
Focus on Tribal Welfare and Inclusive Development
On the final day of her visit, February 6, President Murmu will interact with tribal women and youth from the Similipal region, highlighting issues related to empowerment, education, livelihoods and sustainable development. The interaction reinforces her long-standing commitment to tribal welfare and inclusive growth.
The President’s Odisha visit is expected to strengthen cultural ties, promote education and development, and reaffirm the Centre’s focus on community engagement and regional progress.
