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

Shri P. L. Haranadh, Chairman of the Paradip Port Authority, inaugurated the meet as chief guest. Addressing the gathering, he said culture reflects the inner beauty of the human soul and plays a vital role in fostering unity and harmony. He added that it was a matter of pride for Paradip Port to host the 25th edition of the meet in Odisha, a state known for its rich cultural heritage, classical Odissi dance and artistic traditions.

Haranadh appreciated the enthusiastic participation of teams from major ports across the country and noted that the colourful inaugural parade highlighted the vibrant cultural programmes planned for the event. Stressing that cultural exchange and participation are more important than competition, he observed that port employees across India possess remarkable artistic talent beyond their professional roles. He assured participants that all necessary arrangements had been made for their comfort and wished them a memorable experience before formally declaring the meet open.

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

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

The inaugural cultural performances were presented by the Mumbai Port Authority, followed by the Visakhapatnam Port Authority, setting the tone for the programmes scheduled over the coming days. The cultural meet will conclude on January 11, 2026, with a valedictory function and prize distribution ceremony.