Tapping Odisha’s tourism potential: Here’s how PM Modi has been promoting the state’s rich heritage

Anand Mahindra’s push for tapping tourism potential of Kanhakund, also known as the ‘Grand Canyon of Odisha’ located in Sundargarh district and the subsequent response from the state Tourism department have certainly elicited a positive response on social media. However, it is a known fact that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been trying to project Odisha on the global map for long.

Also Read: Odisha is symbol of originality and optimism in new Bharat: PM Modi in Utkarsh Odisha Conclave 2025 

First, it was the replica of the Konark Wheel from Odisha's Sun Temple which served as the backdrop for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's welcome handshake with G-20 leaders in 2023.  Again, when he attended the first Utkarsh Odisha conclave in January 2025, PM Modi showered praises on Odisha stating that the state has a lot of potential that can boost the Viksit Bharat vision.

What PM Modi Said At Utkarsh Odisha Conclave: 

In his address, PM Modi urged industry leaders to explore the tourism potential of Odisha which has a vast coastline; 33 percent forest cover and the vast scope of eco-tourism.

Also Read: To understand India, Odisha is the best destination: PM Modi at Utkarsh Odisha Conclave in Bhubaneswar

Apart from this, PM Modi also stated that India’s focus is 'wait in India' and 'heal in India'. For this, Odisha’s nature and scenic beauty are helpful. There is a lot of potential for conference tourism in the country.

Recently, a Delhi-based traveller, Aarayansh, shared pictures of Kanhakund on the social media platform, X (formerly Twitter) and mentioned its “clear blue waters” and “granite beds”. Noted industrialist Anand Mahindra was also quick to repost the pictures and asked that there was no need to compare them to the Grand Canyon as they were unique in their own way.

In its response, Odisha Tourism replied, “We’re working on enhancing infrastructure, creating sustainable tourism experiences, and promoting such unique destinations on national and international platforms.”

Also Read: Odisha Tourism dept responds after Anand Mahindra’s remark on Sundargarh’s Kanhakund