Odisha Flags Off First Senior Citizen Pilgrimage Train to Varanasi and Ayodhya

Odisha flagged off its first senior citizen pilgrimage train of FY 2026-27 on Wednesday, carrying 775 pilgrims to Varanasi and Ayodhya under the Mukhyamantri Baristha Nagarik Teertha Yatra Yojana.

The train left Bhubaneswar New Railway Station (Patia) at 11 AM. Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida flagged it off and wished everyone a safe, fulfilling journey. She said the pilgrimage from Lord Lingaraj's land to Kashi Vishwanath and Ayodhya would be memorable, with chances to see Ganga Aarti and seek blessings.

First phase covers six districts: Khordha (169), Jagatsinghpur (85), Kataka (197), Puri (127), Kendrapada (108), Dhenkanal (89). Among 775 pilgrims, 333 are women, 442 men, with 25 escort officers.

Around 8,000 senior citizens will travel in 10 phases during 2026-27 to Ayodhya, Varanasi, Haridwar, Rishikesh, Rameswaram and Madurai.