Bhubaneswar: Odisha Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati on Monday visited the renowned mythological Mahendragiri hill in Gajapati district and attended the ongoing Mahendragiri Mela, underscoring the state’s rich spiritual and cultural heritage.
During the visit, the Governor participated in the grand yajna held as part of the annual fair and offered prayers at the historic Kunti Temple atop Mahendragiri. Describing Mahendragiri as a symbol of Odisha’s eternal spiritual heritage, he said the sacred hill has been promoting dharma, devotion and social unity for generations.
Later, the Governor visited the famous Buddhist monastery at Jirang, where he offered prayers to Lord Buddha for world peace, prosperity and the well-being of humanity. He was accorded a warm welcome by monks, spiritual leaders and local residents upon his arrival.
Interacting with members of the monastery and local people, the Governor listened to their views and concerns. Recalling his role in facilitating the return of the sacred relics of Lord Buddha from Vietnam to India, he said the visit held special significance for him.
Kambhampati lauded the monks and spiritual leaders of the monastery for their dedication to compassion, harmony and spiritual wisdom. He appreciated the institution’s contribution to promoting peace, fostering cultural understanding and preserving the teachings of Lord Buddha.
The Governor said the commitment of the monastery’s monks to safeguarding and propagating Buddha’s teachings for future generations was truly inspiring.
Among those present during the visit were Odisha Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari and Commerce, Transport, Steel and Mines Minister Bibhuti Bhusan Jena.
