Murmu set to make historic first address to Odisha Assembly.
The President will step into the very Assembly chamber where she once sat as a Minister, returning now with deep emotion and pride to address Odisha’s lawmakers.
President Droupadi Murmu is set to script a historic moment in Odisha’s political and legislative landscape on Thursday, November 27, 2025, as she addresses the Odisha Legislative Assembly on the opening day of the Winter Session. This landmark occasion is poised to become a cherished chapter in the state’s democratic journey, not only because it is the first time a President of India will stand before the members of the Odisha Assembly, but also because it carries a deep emotional resonance—President Murmu is returning to the very house where she once contributed as a minister.
For many in Odisha, this moment feels personal. The President, who hails from the Mayurbhanj district, has frequently spoken of her emotional connection to the land and its people. Her return to the Assembly in a new role—this time as the highest Constitutional authority of the country—has generated a palpable sense of anticipation across political parties and among citizens who see her rise as a matter of pride for the state.
Inside the Assembly, preparations have reached an extraordinary scale. The entire complex has been spruced up, security protocols have been tightened, and detailed rehearsals have been conducted to ensure that the President’s visit unfolds smoothly. Officials say that the Assembly chamber has been refurbished with subtle yet significant touches, including upgraded audiovisual systems to ensure every member can clearly follow the presidential address.
All Members of the Legislative Assembly—cutting across political lines—have been requested to remain present. Speaker Pramila Mallik has conveyed that the session will begin with the President’s address, after which normal proceedings will resume. The significance of the occasion is such that many senior MLAs, including those who may disagree bitterly in debates, have expressed that they are looking forward to witnessing this rare moment in Odisha’s legislative history.
The President is expected to speak on a range of issues close to the heart of the state: development challenges, the importance of inclusive governance, the empowerment of tribal communities, and the nation’s broader socio-economic direction. Her speeches, known for their calm dignity and grounded wisdom, often blend national vision with personal sincerity. Observers believe her address will echo her lifelong commitment to education, grassroots empowerment, and sustainable development—all areas she has championed throughout her career.
Beyond the walls of the Assembly, the excitement is just as strong. Many in Bhubaneswar see her visit as an honour for the state. Posters welcoming the President have appeared on major roads, and cultural groups are preparing traditional performances near key points of her route. Government officials have coordinated tightly with security agencies to manage the expected crowds, as people often gather along the convoy path to catch a glimpse of the first tribal woman to become President of India.
For Odisha, November 27 will be more than a ceremonial address. It will be a day of reflection on how far the state has come and how the daughter of the soil, who once participated in Assembly discussions as a minister, now returns to speak as the President of the Republic. It is a moment filled with pride, symbolism, and hope—one that many believe will be remembered for years to come.