Bhubaneswar is set to celebrate its 78th Capital Foundation Day with grand two-day events on April 13 and 14, 2026.
The preparations were finalised in a high-level meeting chaired by Odisha Chief Secretary Anu Garg at Lok Seva Bhawan in Bhubaneswar on April 2, 2026.
Key Highlights of the Celebrations
- April 13: The program begins in the morning with floral tributes at the Foundation Stone plaque located at PMG Square. The hoisting of the Capital Foundation Day flag by the chief guest and an impressive civilian parade from Rabindra Mandap to Jaydev Bhawan will follow this.
– A photo exhibition highlighting Bhubaneswar’s heritage and glory, organised by the Information & Public Relations Department, will be held at Jaydev Bhawan.
– In the evening at Utkal Mandap, the “Rajdhani Gaurav Samman” awards will be presented, along with prizes for various competitions. The Odisha Language, Literature and Culture Department will organise attractive cultural performances. - April 14: The evening cultural program at Utkal Mandap will be integrated with the state government’s ‘Odia Paksha’ celebrations.
The meeting emphasised making the event memorable while showcasing the capital’s rich heritage, culture, and development journey. Chief Secretary Anu Garg directed all departments to ensure smooth execution, with special attention to student participation — including adequate drinking water, ORS, and other facilities — and directed that morning events conclude early due to the summer heat.
Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) Commissioner Chanchal Rana presented the detailed action plan. Instructions were issued for the beautification of the Foundation Stone area by the Bhubaneswar Development Authority (BDA), including cleaning, floral decorations, reactivation of the fountain, welcome arches, and illumination of key government buildings, banks, and commercial establishments.
Security and Logistics
Discussions also covered traffic management, security by the Police Commissionerate, health and emergency services, transportation for students, and wide media publicity. Coordination with Khordha district administration, fire services, and other stakeholders was emphasised for a successful and safe celebration.
Senior officials present included Development Commissioner-cum-Additional Chief Secretary Deoranjan Kumar Singh, Sports & Youth Services Commissioner-cum-Secretary Bhupendra Singh Poonia, and other senior bureaucrats, along with members of the Capital Foundation Day Celebration Committee.
