Sat Jan 18 07:33:40 UTC 2025: **Singapore President Visits Odisha, Enjoys Art and Culture**
BHUBANESWAR, Odisha – Singapore’s President Tharman Shanmugaratnam concluded the second day of his Odisha visit on Saturday, immersing himself in the state’s rich cultural heritage. Accompanied by the First Lady, he spent over an hour at Raghurajpur, a renowned artisan village famous for its Pattachitra paintings. The President purchased two Pattachitra paintings and engaged in conversation with local artists, expressing keen interest in the history and techniques of this unique art form. One artist even presented him with a painting depicting the Presidential couple with the Puri Jagannath Temple in the background.
Later, the President visited the 13th-century Sun Temple at Konark, a UNESCO World Heritage site. His visit necessitated temporary closure of the temple to other tourists. Enhanced security measures were in place throughout the district for the duration of his stay. A guide detailed the temple’s intricate carvings and their historical significance for the President.
The President’s itinerary also included a visit to a Bharat Biotech vaccine manufacturing plant in Bhubaneswar. On Friday, he explored the art and handicrafts at Kalabhoomi, purchasing a saree via UPI, and enjoyed a traditional Odia dinner and a fusion dance performance. Odisha’s Governor, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, and the Union Education Minister were present for some of the events. The visit underscores the strong cultural and diplomatic ties between Singapore and Odisha.
First Piper 