Bhubaneshwar: Attending the 78th Capital Foundation Day celebrations in Bhubaneswar, Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati on Monday said that the responsibility of taking the city to greater heights rests not only with the government but equally with its citizens, who must actively contribute to preserving its heritage and shaping its future. 

Urging residents to adopt sustainable and resilient lifestyles, the Governor called for building an environmentally responsible, pollution-free, and clean city. He emphasised collective efforts to make the capital inclusive, modern, and future-ready.

Extending greetings to the people of Bhubaneswar and the State, he described Bhubaneswar as a city that reflects the state’s rich cultural heritage while embracing the aspirations of modern India. He paid tribute to Otto Koenigsberger and former chief minister Harekrushna Mahatab for their visionary leadership in designing and establishing the capital.

Highlighting its historical legacy, the Governor said Bhubaneswar is deeply rooted in the heritage of ancient Kalinga and associated with transformative events such as the Kalinga War, which inspired Emperor Ashoka’s message of peace. He also referred to the flourishing of Jainism under Kharavela and the enduring legacy seen in the Udayagiri and Khandagiri caves.

Describing Bhubaneswar as the “Temple City of India,” he highlighted iconic monuments such as the Lingaraj Temple, Mukteswar Temple, Rajarani Temple, and Parasurameswara Temple as symbols of architectural brilliance and spiritual heritage.

Tracing its evolution from ancient Sisupalgarh to a planned capital established in 1948, he said Bhubaneswar has emerged as a vibrant centre of governance, education, technology, and culture. He also highlighted its rise as the “Sports Capital of India,” hosting major national and international events.

The Governor commended successive governments for planned urban development and praised initiatives such as the Smart City Mission, infrastructure expansion, and investments in the IT and semiconductor sectors.

He lauded the efforts of the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation in improving civic services and waste management, urging citizens to support cleanliness drives and strive for the top rank in Swachh Survekshan.

Reaffirming the city’s future vision, the Governor called for preserving its unique identity while embracing progress and working collectively towards building a sustainable, inclusive, and forward-looking capital for generations to come.

Among others, Prithviraj Harichandan, Minister for Law, Works and Excise; Pradyumna Kumar Mohanty, Vice-President, Capital Day Celebration Committee (CDCC); and Sanat Mishra, General Secretary, CDCC, also addressed the gathering.

The welcome address was delivered by Sulochana Das, Mayor, Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC), while the vote of thanks was proposed by Chanchal Rana, Commissioner, BMC. Deputy Mayor of BMC, Manjulata Kanhar, was also present on the occasion.