Odisha: Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar, who is on a three-day visit to Odisha, offered prayers and sought the blessings of Lord Jagannath at the Sri Jagannath Temple in Puri on Saturday and later visited the historic Sun Temple in Konark.
On this occasion, the CEC expressed confidence that the divine blessings of Lord Jagannath will motivate and inspire him to discharge his constitutional responsibilities with greater sincerity and commitment.
Upon arrival in the state capital, Bhubaneswar, the CEC paid homage to Lord Jagannath and extended his greetings to the people of Odisha in Odia.
He was warmly welcomed at the Biju Patnaik International Airport by Odisha’s Chief Election Officer (CEO), R.S. Gopalan, and senior officials.
At the Sri Jagannath Temple in Puri, CEC Kumar was welcomed by Chief Administrator of the Sri Jagannath Temple Administration, Arabinda Padhi, District Collector Dibyajyoti Parida, Superintendent of Police Prateek Kumar Singh, and other officials, who showed him Lord Jagannath and other deities.
He stated that Odisha’s art, literature, and culture are ancient and unique, and that he would strive to learn as much as possible about these rich traditions during his visit.
Senior temple officials and servitors briefed CEC Kumar on the spiritual and cultural significance of Lord Jagannath, the unique customs and traditions of the Sri Jagannath Temple, the world-famous Rath Yatra held annually with millions of devotees, as well as the temple’s magnificent architecture and deep devotional practices.
The CEC described the Konark Sun Temple as the pride of India.
After offering prayers at the Sri Jagannath Temple, the CEC traveled via the coastal route to the world-famous Sun Temple in Konark.
He was deeply impressed by the extraordinary craftsmanship and historical significance of Konark, which has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is built in the distinctive Kalinga architectural style.
Speaking at the Sun Temple in Konark, CEC Kumar said that the Sun Temple not only symbolizes Odisha’s heritage, but is a matter of pride and honor for the entire nation.
He said, “Looking at the temple’s grandeur and intricate craftsmanship, one can truly appreciate how rich ancient India was in terms of wealth, knowledge, and scientific advancement.”
He said that contemplating this heritage fills one’s heart with pride.
He said that the Sri Jagannath Temple in Puri and the Sun Temple in Konark are shining examples of Odisha’s rich heritage and centuries-old traditions.
CEC Kumar said that the divine experience of visiting these sacred and historical places will remain etched in his memory forever. Additional Chief Electoral Officer Sushant Kumar Mishra; Joint Chief Electoral Officer Gopinath Kanhar; Deputy Chief Electoral Officer Laxmi Prasad Sahu; Anamika Singh; along with officials of the local administration and other senior officials.
