Bhubaneswar: Speaking at the Odisha Nirman Conclave 2025 organised by Kanak News in Bhubaneswar today, Swami Sarvapriyananda of the Vedanta Society of New York said the spirit of Lord Jagannath and Odia identity continues to guide the state’s development journey.

Delivering the keynote address on “Lord Jagannath and Odia Asmita: The Spirit Behind Odisha’s Development,” he said returning to Odisha felt special as he grew up and studied in the state before becoming a monk. He noted that Jagannath culture has shaped his life deeply.

Swami Vivekananda’s global influence

Recalling Swami Vivekananda’s global influence, he said the first Indian ashram abroad was set up in New York in 1894. He added that the Odia community in the United States is thriving and actively promoting Odia cultu

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