Odisha: EAM Jaishankar Explores Konark Sun Temple and Other Tourist Attractions
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Bhubaneswar, Jan 7 (NationPress) External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar is in Odisha to participate in the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas. On Tuesday, he toured various tourist attractions in Puri and Bhubaneswar.
After landing at Bhubaneswar Airport on Monday, the EAM proceeded to Konark where he spent the night at the Eco Retreat.
On Tuesday morning, Jaishankar, accompanied by his wife, visited the renowned 13th-century Konark Sun Temple.
He also toured the Interpretation Centre at Konark to gain insight into the historical importance of the Sun Temple's construction.
A detailed presentation was given to him about the maritime connections of Odisha with nations in South East Asia and Africa.
Later, he visited the 12th-century Jagannath Temple in Puri, where he had a darshan of the holy triad.
After offering prayers at the Jagannath Temple, Jaishankar expressed, "I feel incredibly fortunate to receive the darshan of the deities here (at the Jagannath Temple). It marks a wonderful start to my visit to Odisha. The Pravasi Bharatiya Divas is being hosted in Odisha for the first time, and the Chief Minister along with the entire administration have worked diligently for this convention. The event will also see the attendance of the President and Prime Minister. It presents a significant opportunity to highlight Odisha on a global stage.
Following this, the EAM and his wife visited the heritage crafts village of Raghurajpur in Puri, where they were warmly welcomed by the locals. Jaishankar engaged with the artisans and was captivated by the Pattachitra paintings and Chandua art showcased there. He also visited the Dhauli Shanti Stupa and the 11th-century Lingaraj Temple in Bhubaneswar.
On his official X account, Jaishankar wrote: "Visited the Dhauli Shanti Stupa. The message of peace and harmony is especially vital in today’s turbulent world. I also viewed the historic rock edicts of Emperor Ashoka, which convey a message of compassion for all."
The EAM is scheduled for a five-day visit to Odisha and will attend the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas commencing at Janata Maidan in Bhubaneswar on January 8.
Approximately 4,000 delegates from around the world are expected to attend this monumental three-day event.
