London, UK – Bharatiya Janata Party’s significant victories in both the Lok Sabha and State Assembly elections in Odisha resonated in the UK, where the Odia community enthusiastically joined the OFBJP UK Odisha Chapter’s celebration at Deja Vu Restaurant, London. With BJD’s 24-year rule in Odisha ending, the Odia diaspora in the UK is optimistic about the development opportunities under the new BJP government.
The event began with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp and the singing of “Bande Utkala Janani,” an Odia song that celebrates Odisha’s rich cultural and historical heritage, embracing the pride of being an Odia. This was an apt beginning, aligning perfectly with BJP’s core vision for Odisha, which emphasises Odia pride (Odia asmita). Esteemed guests included Shri Anil Jain, former National General Secretary of BJP, and Shri Suresh Mangalgiri, General Secretary of OFBJP UK. Shri Anil Jain highlighted the significant development witnessed in India under the BJP’s leadership. He also engaged in a candid conversation with the diaspora, addressing their various queries on party policies and strategies to counter misinformation spread by the media about India. Shri Suresh Mangalgiri summarised OFBJP UK’s activities and campaign efforts during Indian elections.
The celebrations featured online interactions with prominent figures from Odisha: Shri Manmohan Samal, BJP’s Odisha State President and Dr. Aiswarya Biswal, Odisha State President of BJP Mahila Morcha. Shri Manmohan Samal, key to BJP’s victory in Odisha, emphasised the importance of Odia Asmita (pride) while Dr. Aishwarya Biswal brought to the fore the increased support of women for BJP in Odisha and emphasised the government’s focused effort on the empowerment of women.
The event concluded with a delicious spread of food enjoyed by all attendees. Participants felt that BJP’s vision for Odisha represented the hopes and dreams of its people. PM Modi aims to transform India into a developed country by 2047, with a strong focus on the eastern region. Participants are confident that Odisha will greatly benefit from this mission and are excited about the state’s future possibilities. The participants also commended the OFBJP UK Odisha chapter for facilitating this meaningful interaction. Key members included Shri Sumant Mansingh, Shrimati Gayatri Devi, Shri Partha Panda, Shrimati Sweta Mohanty and Shrimati Sonali Panda. The evening ended on a high note, with everyone looking forward to a prosperous and vibrant Odisha under the new leadership.
