Bhubaneswar: Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) of India Shri Gyanesh Kumar, on a three-day visit to Odisha, offered prayers at the Shree Jagannath Temple in Puri and later visited the historic Sun Temple at Konark.
Upon his arrival in Bhubaneswar, Shri Kumar paid his respects to Lord Jagannath and greeted the people of Odisha in Odia. Chief Electoral Officer Shri R. S. Gopalan and senior officials welcomed him at Biju Patnaik International Airport.
At the Shree Jagannath Temple, he was received by Chief Administrator Shri Arabinda Padhee, District Collector Shri Dibyajyoti Parida, Superintendent of Police Shri Pratik Kumar Singh, and other officials. They facilitated his darshan of Lord Jagannath and the deities.
Shri Kumar expressed that the blessings of Lord Jagannath would inspire him to discharge his constitutional responsibilities with greater sincerity and dedication. He praised Odisha’s ancient art, literature, and culture, stating that he would strive to learn more about these traditions during his visit.
After offering prayers in Puri, Shri Kumar travelled along the coastal route to Konark. At the UNESCO World Heritage Site, he admired the extraordinary craftsmanship and historical significance of the Sun Temple, built in the Kalinga style of architecture.
Speaking at Konark, he remarked that the temple is not only a symbol of Odisha’s heritage but also a matter of pride for the entire nation. He noted that the grandeur and intricate artistry reflect the prosperity, knowledge, and scientific advancement of ancient India.
Shri Kumar emphasised that the Shree Jagannath Temple and the Sun Temple stand as magnificent examples of Odisha’s rich heritage and age-old traditions. He said the divine experience of visiting these sacred places would remain etched in his memory.
He was accompanied by Chief Electoral Officer Shri R. S. Gopalan, Additional CEO Shri Sushant Kumar Mishra, Joint CEO Shri Gopinath Kanhar, Deputy CEO Dr Laxmi Prasad Sahu, Smt Anamika Singh, and other senior officials.