Odisha is all set to make history as Men's Hockey World Cup comes to the state for the second consecutive time. Needless to say, excitement is at an all-time high in the two smart cities of the state - Bhubaneswar and Rourkela, which will host more than 40 matches including the big finale. Hockey fever reached its zenith on Sunday (Dec 25) after the World Cup trophy 'landed' in the capital city to a grand welcome. Here's a sneak peek.
Catch a glimpse of the World Cup Trophy which was accorded a grand welcome at the airport in Bhubaneswar.
Parts of the city were chock-a-block with sports enthusiasts today, in what was a gesture of respect towards the Indian Hockey.
Hockey World Cup Trophy at Lord Lingaraj Temple in Bhubaneswar.
Apart from traditional dance performances by hundreds of kids, the city also witnessed Police Band marching on the roads as the TROPHY took a tour of Bhubaneswar.
Olly, the official mascot of Hockey World Cup, along with President of Hockey India Dilip Tirkey (extreme right), Minister Tusharkanti Behera (extreme left), BMC Mayor Sulochana Das and other dignitaries pose with the FIH Odisha Hockey Men's World Cup Trophy in Bhubaneswar.
Trophy and the temple - Picture perfect. Odisha seeks the blessings of Lord Lingaraj for successful completion of the mega event.