FEATURE: The 13th anniversary celebration of The Interview Times marked a momentous occasion in the heart of Bhubaneswar, hosted at the luxurious Mayfair hotel. The evening was not only a tribute to the publication’s enduring impact but also a moment to recognize and celebrate leaders from various walks of life who have inspired and contributed to societal progress.
The evening’s ambiance was electric, filled with the anticipation of the launch of the anniversary edition of The Interview Times, marking a significant milestone in the magazine’s history. Esteemed guests mingled, sharing stories, insights, and reflecting on the journey of the publication. The highlight of the event was the presence of Shri Raghubar Das, Governor of Odisha, who inaugurated the ceremony with a heartfelt address.
Inaugural Address: A Call to Aspire for Greatness
Governor Das, the chief guest of the evening, emphasized the dual significance of the day — the anniversary coinciding with the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. His address inspired the audience to continue contributing positively to society, honouring both individual responsibility and collective progress. He praised Odisha’s natural resources, including its rivers and beaches, while urging the youth to aim for greatness and contribute to a developed state. “Today, we are not just celebrating an anniversary; we are honouring those who work tirelessly for the betterment of our country and community,” remarked Governor Das. His words struck a chord with the audience, underscoring the transformative power of individual and collective efforts.
Eminent Speakers and Thought-Provoking Discussions
The event was also marked by insightful speeches from distinguished figures such as Dr. Rabindra Narayan Behera, Member of Parliament from Jajpur, who delved into the opportunities and challenges posed by the rise of artificial intelligence and cybersecurity. His engaging talk spurred lively discussions among the attendees, sparking new ideas about the future. In his keynote address, Dr. B. K. Das, Director General of DRDO (ECS), reflected on Mahatma Gandhi’s enduring legacy and the role of unity in realizing his vision for India. His words, rich with wisdom, inspired the audience to actively contribute toward building a better future.
Honouring Odisha’s Top Inspirational Personalities
A highlight of the evening was the presentation of the prestigious Top 30 Inspirational Personalities of Odisha awards. These awards recognized individuals who have left an indelible mark in their respective fields, inspiring others through their achievements and leadership. Among the distinguished awardees were Amit Rohidas, Olympic Bronze Medalist, honored as the Inspirational Sporting Personality of the Year 2024 for his stellar achievements in hockey; Pravat Kumar Roul, Vice Chancellor of OUAT, recognized as the Educational Leader of the Year 2024; Dr. Pritam Pal, Group Director at RCM, awarded Inspirational Management Guru of the Year 2024; and Himanshu Shekar Sahoo, MLA (Dharmasala), Jajpur, celebrated as the Inspirational Young Politician of the Year 2024. The event also recognized Satvatapati Das, President of ISKCON Bhubaneswar, as the Inspirational Spiritual Leader of the Year 2024, and Er. Debabrata Behera, Managing Director of Kashvi Group of Companies, as the Inspirational Business Leader of the Year 2024. Actress Ray Elina Samantray was honored as Young Sensation: Most Inspirational Actress of the Year 2024. Mr. Sibasis Mohanty, founder of Secudosoft Technologies, was awarded for Emerging IT Brand of the Year 2024.
In addition to these recognitions, the event celebrated other individuals who made remarkable contributions in various categories. Rahul Bhartia, Managing Director of Bhartia Group, was named the Best Company of the Year 2024, and Kamlesh Kumar Singh, founder of Group Surya, was awarded Best Business Leader for Renewal Energy.
Lifetime Achievement Awards
The evening culminated with the presentation of the Lifetime Achievement Awards, recognizing four distinguished individuals for their lifelong contributions and impact on society. Dasharathi Shatpathi, IAS and Secretary of the Odisha Legislative Assembly, K J Patel, Director of IFFCO, Atanu Bhowmick, Director in Charge of SAIL, and Pankaj Mohanty, Managing Director of MGM, were among those honored. Their stories of perseverance and dedication served as powerful examples, igniting hope and ambition in the youth.
The Visionary Behind the Event
Dibyajit Sahu, Editor-in-Chief of The Interview Times, delivered an emotional vote of thanks, expressing his gratitude to the attendees, the readers, and the supporters who have been instrumental in the publication’s journey. He reiterated The Interview Times’ commitment to quality journalism and its role as a catalyst for social progress.
The 13th anniversary event was not just a celebration of past achievements; it was a vibrant platform for inspiration, unity, and the vision for a brighter future. As the night came to a close, the atmosphere was one of camaraderie and shared purpose, with attendees leaving inspired to continue contributing positively to society. The event reaffirmed The Interview Times’ role in uplifting voices and stories that drive change.