‘Slow life’ culture takes root in Odisha amid rapid expansion of Bhubaneswar, other cities

Odisha is witnessing a rapid surge in economic and overall prosperity with major reforms pushing it forward. However, as the state continues to leap ahead, a curious trend of ‘slow life’ is catching up with its citizens.

In the last few months, Odisha and its capital city, Bhubaneswar, became a national epicentre with dignitaries including President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and Singapore President Tharman Shanmugaratnam visiting it for key events including the 'Pravasi Bharatiya Divas' and the 'Utkarsh Odisha: Make In Odisha Conclave 2025'.

Amid this spotlight, many Odias are embracing 'slow living' to escape the rush. Interactions with youth as well as the elderly have shed on this lifestyle’s growing popularity focusing on peace and mindfulness, moving away from the chaos of city life.

Despite the vast possibilities of malls, multiplex chains, and entertainment options, people in Bhubaneswar and several of Odisha’s cities are now spending more meaningful time with loved ones and nature, valuing well-being over material success.

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The change has been accelerated by the rise in pollution, climate change, and stress has led many to reconsider their lifestyle choices.

“Bhubaneswar is becoming a concrete city. The residents always appear to be in a rush and it is becoming stressful. People want to live their lives peacefully and it is why they are seeking alternative options,” said environmentalist, Jaykrushna Panigrahi.

Further, influential figures like Zoho founder Sridhar Vembu, who runs his massive business from a rural village in Tamil Nadu, have advocated for simpler, stress-free lives.

My favorite Banyan tree. Very "socialist" enjoyment - doesn't contribute to GDP after all 😏 pic.twitter.com/z2U72WkCz6

— Sridhar Vembu (@svembu) November 9, 2024

In a growing trend, writers, yoga trainers, and entrepreneurs in the state are seeking to shift to slower, balanced lifestyles. Modern city amenities like hospitals, education, and jobs are appealing, but the constant hustle harms mental and physical health.

“Slow living is on the rise as people want to spend their time and relax with their loved ones. It is said to reduce stress significantly,” added Professor Dr. Subhendu Mishra.

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Is Slow Living Practical?

While completely leaving cities isn't feasible for everyone, slow living encourages peace within the chaos through mindful work, more time in nature, and simply slowing down.

Commuting using bicycles or walking, creating a peaceful balcony garden, or spending quality time with loved ones are also some of the ways people practice slow living while being in cities.

As per the online media, the benefits of slow living extend to mental health, reducing stress and anxiety by promoting mindfulness and self-care. It is also said to foster stronger family bonds by prioritizing quality time and shared experiences, encouraging creativity and emotional intelligence in children.

With rising urban stress, slow living is gaining traction in Odisha, slow living offers a path to a happier, healthier life, quickly becoming a favoured option for citizens.

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Difference Between Slow Living & Simple Living:

While both concepts overlap, slow living prioritizes mindful engagement with activities and reducing the overall pace of life while simple living focuses on decluttering possessions and minimizing consumption to prioritize what truly matters. Slow living may involve savouring a simple meal while simple living might mean minimizing kitchen gadgets.