25th All India Major Port Cultural Meet begins at Paradip Port

PARADIP : The 25th All India Major Port Cultural Meet 2025–26 was inaugurated on Thursday at Jayadev Sadan, Paradip Port. The four-day cultural event is being organised by Paradip Port Authority under the aegis of the Major Ports Sports Control Board.

Shri P. L. Haranadh, Chairman, Paradip Port Authority, inaugurated the meet as Chief Guest. Addressing the gathering, he said that culture reflects the inner beauty of the human soul and plays an important role in promoting unity and harmony. He stated that it was a matter of pride for Paradip Port to host the 25th edition of the cultural meet in Odisha, a state renowned for its rich cultural heritage, classical Odissi dance and artistic excellence.

He appreciated the enthusiastic participation of teams from major ports across the country and noted that the colourful inaugural parade reflected the vibrant cultural programmes planned for the meet. Emphasising that participation and cultural exchange are more important than competition, he observed that port employees across India possess remarkable cultural talent beyond their professional roles. Assuring participants that all necessary arrangements had been made for their comfort and wished everyone a memorable and enriching experience. With these remarks, he declared the meeting open.

The inaugural proceedings were presided over by Chairman, Organising Committee, Shri Himansu Sekhar Rout. Shri Ashoka Kumar Sahu, FA & CAO; Shri Susil Chandra Nahak, Chief Mechanical Engineer; and Dr. Bibhuti Bhusan Das, Chief Medical Officer were also present on the occasion. Dr. D. P. Sethi, Secretary of the Organising Committee, gave the welcome address.

More than 200 participants from nine major ports, including Chennai, Cochin, Deendayal, Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority, Kolkata, Mumbai, Visakhapatnam, V.O. Chidambaranar and host Paradip Port, are taking part in the meet. Competitions are being held in Classical Vocal, Light Vocal, Instrumental Music, Dance and Drama categories.

The inaugural cultural performance was presented by Mumbai Port Authority followed by Visakhapatnam Port Authority setting the tone for the vibrant programmes scheduled over the next few days.

The 25th All India Major Port Cultural Meet will conclude on January 11, 2026, with a valedictory function and prize distribution ceremony.