Bhubaneswar: The people across the State today soaked with colors to celebrate the festival of colours, Holi. This joyous occasion marks the victory of good over evil and the arrival of spring, filling the air with laughter, music, and camaraderie.
In Bhubaneswar, people of all age groups celebrated the day with the streets filled with Holi revellers who danced in groups while spraying, smearing and throwing colours at each other.
Twin City Police made elaborate arrangements for a peacful Holi celebrations. Police Commissioner Sanjeeb Panda reviewed the situation and advised Police Force to be vigilant.
The streets of Odisha resonate with the sounds of drums and traditional Holi songs as families and friends gather to partake in this colorful extravaganza.
One of the most captivating aspects of Holi in Odisha is the enthusiasm with which people of all ages participate. From children gleefully chasing each other with water balloons to elders exchanging warm embraces, the festival bridges generation gaps and strengthens familial bonds.
Traditional sweets like gujiya, malpua, and thandai add a gastronomic delight to the festivities, symbolizing the sweetness and joy associated with Holi. Every household echoes with laughter and merriment as people exchange greetings, share sweets, and splash colors on each other.
In essence, Odisha’s celebration of Holi today is a testament to the state’s rich cultural heritage and the enduring spirit of unity that binds its people together in a tapestry of colors and traditions.
Governor Raghubar Das and Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik have extended their greetings on Holi to people of the state and wished them a happy and prosperous life.
The Governor said, “Best wishes on Holi, the festival of colors and enthusiasm. I pray to Mahaprabhu Jagannath that the festival of Holi fills the lives of all people with colors of happiness, prosperity and health. Enjoy the festival with your family and friends with love and harmony.”
Extending greetings, CM Naveen Patnaik said, “My heartiest wishes and congratulations to all on the occasion of Holi, the festival of colors and brotherhood. May everyone’s life be filled with happiness and peace with the blessings of Lord Radha Gobind.”
Ahead of Lok Sabha and Assembly polls, Holi was celebrated in the headquarters offices of three major political parties BJD, BJP and Congress.
Meanwhile, eight persons, including four students, drowned while taking bath after celebrating Holi in five Odisha districts, police said.
While three students drowned in Cuttack, two persons died in Balasore and one each in Jagatsinghpur, Ganjam and Sambalpur districts. The incidents took place following Holi celebrations since morning in various villages of these districts, a police officer said.
Meanwhile, some people were injured after two groups reportedly clashed at Bhogada village in Cuttack district while they were celebrating Holi, police said.
