A Journey of Faith and Fervour;Hon’ble President’s Historic Sojourn from Bhubaneswar to Sacred Hills of Taptapani
News Desk Odishabarta
Brahmapur, 04/08/ 2026: Ganjam today unfolded as a magnificent tapestry where nature, heritage and spirituality came together in perfect harmony. The two-day visit of the Hon’ble President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, was far more than an official engagement—it became a celebration of Odisha’s timeless traditions, breathtaking landscapes and the enduring faith of its people.
As the Hon’ble President commenced her rail journey from Bhubaneswar, the unfolding panorama of Odisha narrated its own story. The tranquil expanse of the majestic Chilika Lake, emerald paddy fields stretching to the horizon, dense forests and idyllic villages created a picture of unmatched beauty. Every mile of the journey reflected the soul of Odisha, as if nature itself had adorned its finest colours to welcome the First Citizen of the Nation.
Along the railway line, at stations, level crossings and villages, thousands of enthusiastic citizens, children and folk artistes gathered with the National Flag and traditional musical instruments to greet the Hon’ble President. Their smiling faces, patriotic fervour and warm hospitality transformed the journey into a vibrant celebration of people’s affection and pride.
Arriving at Brahmapur Railway Station at 11:10 a.m., the Hon’ble President received a grand and memorable welcome. The resonant chants of Sankirtan, the auspicious echoes of conch shells and temple bells, the rhythmic energy of the traditional Tiger Dance and the colourful presentation of Ganjam’s rich folk traditions filled the atmosphere with devotion, joy and cultural splendour. The station came alive as a vibrant stage showcasing the district’s glorious heritage.
The onward journey from Brahmapur to Taptapani offered yet another unforgettable spectacle. People from all walks of life lined both sides of the road, eagerly waving and greeting the Hon’ble President with immense warmth and affection. The winding roads through verdant hills, dense forests and pristine landscapes presented a captivating glimpse of Ganjam’s immense ecological and tourism wealth.
At the sacred abode of Taptapani, nestled amidst tranquil forests and renowned for its natural hot sulphur springs, the Hon’ble President offered prayers at Maa Kandhuni Devi Temple and the nearby Mahadev Temple and participated in the sacred Aarti. Revered for generations, this spiritual destination stands as a timeless symbol of tribal traditions, unwavering faith and Odisha’s profound cultural legacy.
Speaking on the occasion, Ganjam Collector Shri V. Keerthi Vasan observed that the Hon’ble President’s visit would significantly enhance the national visibility of Ganjam’s tourism, culture and religious heritage while providing fresh momentum to the district’s developmental aspirations. He expressed confidence that the visit would catalyse tourism infrastructure, create sustainable livelihood opportunities and contribute to the socio-economic empowerment of the tribal communities.
The Hon’ble President’s historic visit will forever remain a proud milestone in Ganjam’s collective memory. Beyond its official significance, it has presented the district’s rich cultural heritage, literary and artistic traditions, gracious hospitality and extraordinary tourism potential before the nation. More importantly, it has reaffirmed that Ganjam is not merely a destination of scenic beauty, but a land where faith, culture, nature and progress flourish together in perfect harmony.
DIPRO, Ganjam
