Bhubaneswar, 15 November (H.S.): Odisha is set to host one of its largest youth gatherings as around 15,000 students from across the state participate in UMANG 2026, a mega youth festival at Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar on Tuesday.

Organised by The Art of Living in association with Sri Sri University, and in collaboration with the Social Security and Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (SSEPD) Department, Government of Odisha, the festival will coincide with International Students’ Day and take place from 3 pm to 6 pm.

Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi will grace the occasion, while internationally renowned spiritual leader and humanitarian Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar will address and interact with the participating students. State ministers Suryabanshi Suraj and Sampad Charan Swain will also attend the programme.

The event is supported by the state departments of Higher Education, Skill Development and Technical Education, and Sports and Youth Services.

Designed as a celebration of youth, UMANG 2026 aims to inspire young people to embrace positivity, responsibility, confidence and purposeful living. Against the backdrop of growing concerns over substance abuse among young people, the festival will place special emphasis on drug awareness and responsible choices.

A major highlight will be an interactive session with Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, who will share his insights on managing stress, developing inner strength and leading a life guided by clarity, compassion and purpose. His message of a stress-free mind and a violence-free society is expected to encourage students to become responsible individuals and contribute positively to society.

Following the interaction, around 15,000 students will take a collective Youth Pledge Against Drugs, committing themselves to staying away from substance abuse and promoting awareness among their peers. The initiative seeks to encourage young people to become ambassadors of a healthier and drug-free society.

The festival will also feature Bhajan Clubbing by Nirvana Station of The Art of Living, blending devotional music with contemporary musical expressions to connect young participants with India's spiritual and cultural heritage.

Organisers said UMANG 2026 aims to go beyond a conventional youth festival by bringing together spiritual guidance, social responsibility and music. The initiative seeks to nurture a confident, compassionate and conscious generation capable of driving positive social change.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda