Bhubaneswar, July 21: On the eve of the world-renowned Rath Yatra, Puri welcomed dignitaries from across the globe to witness the grand chariot festival of Lord Jagannath. Among them was Padma Shri awardee and celebrated playback singer Sonu Nigam, who experienced the sacred festival in person for the very first time.
The visit was made possible by his close friend Dr. Pradeep Sethi, Co-founder of Eugenix Hair Sciences and a proud son of Odisha. During an earlier conversation, Sonu Nigam had shared that despite having sung hundreds of Odia songs and devotional bhajans dedicated to Lord Jagannath over the past three decades, he had never had the opportunity to witness the Rath Yatra first hand. Deeply moved by this, Dr. Sethi, with the blessings of Lord Jagannath and in coordination with the Government of Odisha, arranged for the singer’s long-awaited pilgrimage.
The duo received a warm welcome at Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar, where they were greeted by enthusiastic fans and members of the media. Speaking to the press before leaving for Puri, both Sonu Nigam and Dr. Sethi expressed their excitement and gratitude for the opportunity to be part of one of India’s most revered spiritual celebrations.
Describing the RathYatra as a “once-in-a-lifetime experience,” Sonu Nigam said he was overwhelmed by the spiritual energy and devotion that filled the holy city. Accompanied by his sister and Dr. Sethi, he also met several prominent dignitaries, including Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, Deputy Chief Ministers K.V. Singh Deo and Pravati Parida, Governor Dr. Hari Babu Kambhampati, and Member of Parliament Sambit Patra. The interactions included discussions on Odisha’s cultural heritage, development, and its growing global recognition.
During his visit, Sonu Nigam also offered prayers at the historic Lingaraj Temple in Bhubaneswar alongside Dr. Pradeep Sethi.
Reflecting on his enduring bond with Odisha, Sonu Nigam said:
“Even before I became popular in Hindi music, I had the privilege of singing countless Odia bhajans. Over the years, I have developed a deep emotional connection with the people of Odisha, many of whom have grown up listening to my devotional songs—just like my younger brother, Dr. Pradeep Sethi. In fact, many people have often told me they believed I was Odia. Perhaps I was born in Odisha in a previous life to be blessed with the opportunity to sing in praise of Lord Jagannath. To finally witness the Rath Yatra with my own eyes is a blessing beyond words.” He also praised Dr. Pradeep Sethi, calling him “the pride of Odisha” for his remarkable contributions to healthcare and for remaining deeply connected to his roots.
Dr. Pradeep Sethi said:
“For over 34 years, Sonu Ji’s soulful Odia bhajans have been an inseparable part of the spiritual lives of millions of Odias. To finally have him stand before Lord Jagannath’s chariot and experience the Rath Yatra himself was deeply emotional for me—not only as a close friend, but as someone who grew up in the shadow of this magnificent festival. Moments like these remind us what home truly means.”
Adding a musical touch to the occasion, Sonu Nigam and Dr. Sethi delighted those present by singing the beloved Odia classics “Jhipi Jhipi Barasare” and “Janami Thili Mu Sri Gundicha Dina,” celebrating Odisha’s rich musical and devotional heritage.
Before departing for Mumbai, an emotional Sonu Nigam thanked Lord Jagannath for blessing him with this unforgettable experience. He also expressed heartfelt gratitude to the people of Odisha for their warmth and affection, thanked Dr. Pradeep Sethi for making the visit possible, and conveyed his sincere appreciation to the Government of Odisha for its gracious hospitality and support throughout the pilgrimage.
