Smita Mishra 
In a world where diplomacy is an art, Shri Arun Kumar Sahu is the master painter. With a career spanning over two decades, he has woven a tapestry of excellence, dedication, and passion. As India’s Ambassador to Bulgaria, he is poised to take India-Bulgaria relations to unprecedented heights.
Born in the picturesque village of Palunipada, Odisha, Shri Sahu’s life was shaped by his family’s dedication to service. His father, Dr. Banamali Sahu, a physician-poet, provided healthcare to the underprivileged, while his mother, Sarojini Devi, instilled values of truth, honesty, and compassion.
Utkarsh Odisha CMD Roundtable
Shri Sahu’s academic excellence earned him scholarships throughout his education. He pursued Sociology at Ravenshaw College, followed by Master’s degrees in Linguistics from Jawaharlal Nehru University and War in the Modern World from King’s College, London. His academic prowess is a testament to his insatiable thirst for knowledge.
In 1996, Shri Sahu embarked on a distinguished career in the Indian Foreign Service, holding key positions in Beijing, London, Tehran, and Canada. As Deputy High Commissioner of India to Canada and High Commissioner to Trinidad and Tobago, he strengthened India’s global relations, forging bonds of cooperation and friendship.
On December 18, 2024, Shri Sahu was appointed as India’s Ambassador to Bulgaria, where he aims to foster bilateral ties, business investments, and cultural collaborations. He’s particularly interested in leveraging Bulgaria’s maritime capabilities and exploring collaborations in robotics, mathematics, and research.
But what’s truly remarkable about Shri Sahu is his passion for writing. He’s a celebrated author in both Odia and English, with works like “Iguana and Other Poems” and “Trinidad and Tobago: A Diplomat’s Cultural Expedition”. He has also written “JAJABARARA JATRA” and “CHIRA MALATA” in Odia.
Inspired by his father’s literary legacy, Shri Sahu established the Dr. Banamali Sahu Memorial Essay Competition in 2024 to promote the Odia language among schoolchildren.
In a recent interview, Shri Sahu shared his experiences in Bulgaria, highlighting the country’s strong cultural roots and warm acceptance of Indian culture. “Bulgaria is a believing country, deeply rooted in their customs and traditions,” he said. “They have a rich cultural heritage, with a strong emphasis on dance, music, and art.”
He also noted the similarities between Bulgarian and Indian cultures. “Many Indian people are studying MBBS and medicine in Bulgaria, and the country has a strong affinity for Indian culture,” he said.
When asked about his favorite Bulgarian dishes, Shri Sahu’s eyes lit up. “Especially being an Odia, you need your fish requirement as per time. And that’s a very good thing Sofia have a lot of options for fish and they are so good with taste,” he said. “Other than that, they have chicken and other non-veg options, as well as fresh vegetables and fruits.”
When asked about his objectives for India-Bulgaria relations, Shri Sahu emphasized, “We are trying to bring more and more investment, business, and opportunities for good infrastructure here. The Indian chambers of commerce is soon going to open a branch here, and we see this as a starting point. Hope to bring more and more opportunities to strengthen the infrastructure here.”
Shri Arun Kumar Sahu’s incredible journey is a testament to his hard work, dedication, and passion for cultural exchange. As India’s Ambassador to Bulgaria, he’s poised to take India-Bulgaria relations to unprecedented heights, forging a brighter future for both nations. His legacy will undoubtedly inspire generations to come, a shining example of excellence, diplomacy, and cultural understanding.
