CM Mohan Majhi goes on shopping spree with wife on Diwali, bats for 'vocal for local'

Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Majhi on Thursday was spotted shopping with his wife on the auspicious occasion of Diwali, the festival of lights. Instead of going to fancy showrooms, the CM went shopping in a local market and bought local products, emphasizing on ‘Odia Asmita’ and ‘Vocal for Local’.

Reminiscing his good old days before becoming the CM, Majhi stated that his effort is to encourage street vendors and other Odia people who earn a livelihood through hard work.

The CM said, “My heartfelt wishes to every Odias on the auspicious day of Diwali, the festival of lights; this festival symbolizes the win of light over darkness and truth over evil. I pray to Maa Kali for the peace and prosperity of every Odia.”

He further added, “I’m buying from the footpath because this is where I used to do my Diwali shopping earlier too. From 2004-2009, I was staying here and my quarter is here nearby. After becoming the CM also, I wished to buy from street vendors and emphasise on ‘Odia Asmita’ and vocal for local to extend a helping hand to every vendor.”

Accompanied him was his wife Priyanka Marandi. The CM and his wife were spotted shopping like any other normal couple.

“I’m on cloud nine after seeing the CM right in front of my eyes. He bought everything and gave me a Rs 2000,” said an excited street vendor.

Similarly, another street vendor said, “I’m very happy. He can understand the pain of the poor. I wasn’t aware and he just showed up all of a sudden. I was in shock, but he was very kind.”