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Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Monday visited Dhauli Hill in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, coinciding with the 7th day of Navratri.
During his visit, he offered prayers and sought blessings at the historical premises, paying homage to the site where the ancient Kalinga War was fought in 261 BC. Pradhan expressed pride in his heritage, stating, "Our ancestors fought at this very land in the Kalinga war... I feel proud to be here". Pradhan highlighted the importance of Dhauli Hill, which records the expansion of the Kalinga Empire and Emperor Ashoka's conversion to Buddhism after the war. He emphasised that the development of this area will lay the foundation for a "New Odisha", aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision for a self-dependent and clean India. Pradhan stressed the need to connect with India's roots to strengthen the economy and achieve development goals. Speaking to reporters, Pradhan said, "Our ancestors fought on this very land in the Kalinga war. I feel proud to be here, especially on the 8th day of Navratri. The foundation of New Odisha will be laid with the development of this area. The Prime Minister has called for a self-dependent and clean India with a strengthened economy, and all of it can happen if we connect with our roots." On Sunday, Odisha Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati visited the Jobra Durga Puja pandal in Cuttack and inaugurated the intricately designed Silver Filigree Medha, offering his prayers to the goddess, according to a statement from the Public Relations Officer for the Governor. The governor was accompanied by his wife, Jayashree Kambhampati. The exquisitely crafted Medha, specially prepared for this year's festival, highlights Cuttack's world-renowned silver filigree tradition, the PRO said. Barabati MLA Sofia Firdous, Choudwar MLA Souvic Biswal, Cuttack Municipal Corporation Mayor Subhash Chandra Singh, and senior district administration officials were also present. The seventh day of Navratri holds special significance and is dedicated to Goddess Kalratri Mata , one of the nine manifestations of Goddess Durga. Navratri, also known as Shardiya Navratri, is one of the most vibrant Hindu festivals, dedicated to Goddess Durga and her nine avatars. The nine-night festival is marked by prayers, fasting, devotional songs, and energetic dance forms such as Garba and Dandiya Raas. In Gujarat, large community gatherings and cultural performances form the heart of the celebrations. The festive fervour is also reflected in Kolkata, where Durga Puja pandals are drawing attention with themes rooted in artificial intelligence, environmental concerns and evolving family dynamics, blending creativity with devotion. (ANI)
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