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Odisha to host record global diaspora at Pravasi Bharatiya Divas
Registrations for the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas in Bhubaneswar have surged, with 3,500 NRIs expected from 50 countries, bringing total attendance to 7,500.
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Photos from the 17th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention held last year in Madhya Pradesh. / Website- pbdindia.gov.in/pbd-attractions
The 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) Convention, slated to take place from Jan.8 to Jan.10 in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, is witnessing a significant surge in registrations, with the event expected to draw a record number of diasporic attendees.
As the three-day event approaches, the daily registration requests have soared to over 150, a sharp rise from the 40-50 registrations just a week ago. Officials from the Department of Home, Government of Odisha, have confirmed this trend, which highlights the growing global interest in the event.
The Government of Odisha is targeting an impressive 3,500 non-resident Indians (NRIs) from around 50 countries, with the total attendance expected to reach approximately 7,500, including local participants.
The surge in interest has primarily come from Indian residents of Southeast Asia, followed by those from Gulf countries and Europe. More than 30 countries are represented in the registration list, showcasing the global appeal of the convention.
A message from the External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar read, “India not only has one of the largest Diaspora but also one most closely connected to the motherland. Developments at home achievements or challenges are always closely followed abroad. Our Pravasi Bharatiya Divas gathering every two years is a long-standing occasion to renew bonds and develop networking.”
Jan. 9 marks the return of Mahatma Gandhi from South Africa to India in 1915. To honor this day, the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas was first celebrated on Jan.9, 2003, to recognize the contributions of the overseas Indian community to India's development.
Since 2015, the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention has been held every two years. A total of 17 Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Conventions have taken place so far, with the 17th held from January 8-10, 2023, in Indore, Madhya Pradesh. The theme of the 17th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas was "Diaspora: Reliable Partners for India's Progress in Amrit Kaal."
Dear #BharatiyaPravasis, ONLY 06 days to go for the 18th #PravasiBharatiyaDivas Convention in Odisha. A very HAPPY NEW YEAR!! to all. Looking forward to welcome you all for the #18PBD.#PBD2025 #HappyNewYear2025 pic.twitter.com/heVk06pYPe
— Diaspora India Connect (@diaspora_india) January 1, 2025
The theme for this year's convention is "Diaspora's Contribution to a Viksit Bharat”.
A landmark event for Odisha
This year marks the first time Bhubaneswar is hosting the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas, and the state is eager to make a lasting impression. Odisha’s 482-km-long coastline, facing Southeast Asia, positions the state as a key gateway for international engagement. The government aims to leverage the event to attract significant investments in sectors such as tourism, port infrastructure, and more.
Among the NRIs showing interest in the event, those from Kerala, Maharashtra, and Uttar Pradesh dominate, along with a large number of participants from Odisha itself. The state’s rich cultural and historical legacy, combined with its economic potential, makes it an ideal host for this prestigious gathering.
The convention will kick off on Jan.8 with the Youth Pravasi Bharatiya Divas, followed by the main event on Jan.9, which will be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The event will culminate on Jan.11 with the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman awards ceremony, where the President of India, Droupadi Murmu, will deliver the valedictory address.
In addition to the main convention, Bhubaneswar will host a series of cultural and social events to make the gathering even more memorable. These include a night flea market, an Adivasi fair, and a food festival, offering participants a chance to explore the local culture and cuisine.
Odisha’s tourism improved
The surge in NRI participation is also having a positive impact on Odisha’s tourism sector. Increased bookings for cabs and hotel stays in key tourist destinations like Puri and Konark reflect the growing interest in the state’s rich cultural and natural heritage.
Odisha is known for its UNESCO-listed Konark Sun Temple, the sacred Jagannath Temple in Puri, and its pristine beaches like Chandrabhaga, Gopalpur, and Puri Beach. The state also boasts natural wonders such as Chilika Lake, Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon, and the Simlipal National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. With its unique blend of cultural, historical, and natural attractions, Odisha is fast becoming a must-visit destination for travelers seeking authentic experiences.
Odisha’s tourism is not just about its landmarks but also its rich tribal culture and traditional handicrafts. The state is renowned for its Sambalpuri fabrics, intricate stone carvings, and Pattachitra paintings, which are sought after by collectors and art lovers worldwide. Odisha’s festive spirit, displayed during festivals like Durga Puja, Raja, and Chhau Dance performances, adds another layer to its cultural allure.
The 18th Pravasi Bharatiya DivasConvention is a key milestone in this journey, as it provides a platform for global NRIs to reconnect with their roots and explore new opportunities for collaboration and growth.
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