President Murmu Offered Prayers at Jagannath Temple, Addresses Balasore Convocation

Puri/Balasore: President Droupadi Murmu, on February 5, 2026, offered prayers at the revered Sri Jagannath Temple in Puri, Odisha, where she also performed the sacred Pinda Daan ritual at the Sweta Ganga tank. The visit, part of her ongoing six-day Odisha tour, marked her fourth visit to Puri since assuming office.

In view of the President’s visit, general darshan at the Jagannath Temple was suspended until 10 am, and extensive security arrangements were enforced.

The President was accompanied by Odisha Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati and Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi. She was received at the Lion’s Gate by Gajapati Maharaja Dibyasingha Deb before proceeding to the sanctum sanctorum to offer prayers. She spent nearly 25 minutes inside the temple.

After the darshan, temple authorities accorded the President a ceremonial honour, presenting her with traditional Khandua silk and a Pattachitra painting depicting the Dashavatara, with Lord Jagannath at the centre, reflecting Odisha’s rich cultural heritage.

Later in the day, President Murmu visited Balasore, where she addressed the convocation ceremony of Fakir Mohan University and inaugurated the university’s new auditorium. In her address, she emphasized that the growth, security, and technological advancement of all sections of society are vital for India’s progress.

Paying tribute to Fakir Mohan Senapati, the President described him as a lasting source of inspiration, recalling how his short story Rebati influenced her own educational journey and highlighted his contribution to women’s education.

The President later continued with other official engagements in Odisha.