Hockey World Cup 2023 Opens to an Extravaganza Opening Ceremony as CM Naveen Takes Centre Stage 

Cuttack: The wait is finally over. The FIH Odisha Men’s Hockey World Cup 2023 opened to an extravaganza and colorful opening ceremony as Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik took the centre stage of celebrations at historic Barabati Stadium, which has turned into a constellation brimming with the brightest of stars from music and entertainment industry.

Addressing the cheering audience, the Chief Minister said that Odisha is known for its hospitality. “I am sure all the visitors will take a little part of Odisha with them to home”, the CM added.

The Chief Minister expressed his happiness with the way that the FIH Men’s Hockey World Cup has returned to Odisha.

He thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the union government for their all support in hosting the mega sporting event in the state.

Union Sports Minister Anurag Thakur, FIH Tayyab Ikram, Hockey India President Dilip Tirkey and other dignitaries were present at the inaugural ceremony.

The spectacular event, that showcases the vibrant art and culture of the state and country through the mesmerizing performances, has encapsulated the spirit of hockey across the globe, true to the tune of “Hockey Hai Dil Mera”, the theme song of Hockey World Cup 2023.

During the inaugural event, as a tribute to Late Biju Patnaik, an Augmented Reality experience was performed which told of the story of his life and the incredible things he has done as the modern architect of the state of Odisha.

The star-studded extravaganza featuring Bollywood heartthrob Ranveer Singh, legendary music director Pritam, actress Disha Patani and other popular artists with a panoply of musical performances and gala presentations from across genres enthralled more than 40,000 audiences at Barabati Stadium.

Prior to the grand opening ceremony, the spectators witnessed strong performances by the India’s Got Talent fame Prince Dance Group, Guru Aruna Mohanty, Rapper Big Deal, Rituraj Mohanty, Lisa Mishra , Sabyasachi Mishra and Archita Sahu.

The world cup matches will be held at the Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar and Birsa Munda Stadium in Rourkela from January 13 to 29.