Union Culture and Tourism Minister, Gajendra Singh Sekhawat, has assured that steps will be initiated to establish a branch of the National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA) in Bhubaneswar.
This commitment came in response to persistent efforts by Bhubaneswar MP Aparajita Sarangi.
Met Minister Sri @gssjodhpur , GoI,& reminded him of my request for a Branch of National Gallery of Modern Art at Bhubaneswar.
Pursuant to my meeting with Hon”ble CM Sri @MohanMOdisha,he had also sent a written request to Sri Shekhawat for the same.
I was assured of all support. pic.twitter.com/32rFsH2zzB— Aparajita Sarangi, 2nd time MP- LS,Bhubaneswar (@AprajitaSarangi) March 16, 2025
The proposal was first brought to the Centre’s attention on September 10, 2024, when Sarangi advocated for the gallery to showcase Odisha’s architectural marvels, including sculptures from iconic sites such as Khandagiri, Udayagiri, Lingaraj Temple, and the Sun Temple of Konark.
Supporting the initiative, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi wrote to the Union Minister on September 25, 2024, highlighting the gallery’s potential to preserve and promote Odisha’s rich heritage.
The matter was revisited on March 13, 2025, during Sarangi’s meeting with Sekhawat, who assured that the groundwork for the gallery would commence shortly. “Once established, this gallery will not only enrich Odisha’s cultural landscape but also educate future generations about India’s ancient heritage and culture,” Sarangi remarked.
The proposed gallery is expected to serve as a hub of cultural education, attracting art enthusiasts and scholars alike.