Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik launches Dotfest, over 15,000 attend event on Day I

BHUBANESWAR: Chief minister Naveen Patnaik on Sunday inaugurated Dotfest, the grand cultural extravaganza that is being organised in the wake of the men's hockey World Cup.
"Wish you all a happy New Year. I am sure all will have a great time in the festival," the CM said while opening the grand city festival that will run till January 24.
Addressing the audience on the first day of the event, Naveen said, "This is a moment of glory for Odisha, we are here experiencing an ecstatic evening of honour. The India and the world is present in Odisha, and let us celebrate with all our hearts and minds together. Bhubaneswar is immensely honoured to host the FIH men's hockey World Cup tournament for the second consecutive time, where people from 16 nations and across the globe are coming here to enjoy every bit of our city."
Balwant Singh, vice-chairman, Bhubaneswar Development Authority (BDA), energised the people with his encouraging address and made people to chant, "Ama Sahara, Ama Garva" (Our city our pride) and "Hockey Hai Dil Mera" slogans that rented the exhibition ground, the venue of the festival. More than 15,000 people thronged the ground.
Many Bollywoods star entertainers rocked the stage in the capital as well. The mega entertainment programme that is part of DotFest encompasses international food festival, Bhubaneswar storytelling festival (BhuFesto), night bazar, photo exhibition and trails - nature trails, heritage and art trails and flea market.
Bollywood celebrities and popular singers kept the young audience entertained.