The Odisha government on Wednesday launched its new brand positioning and tagline, ‘Think India, Think Odisha’, to promote tourism in the state. This new tagline was introduced alongside the unveiling of the OMC Puri Coastal Marathon (OPCM), an inaugural international sporting event designed to enhance Odisha’s presence in sports and experiential tourism. Deputy Chief Minister and Tourism Department in-charge Pravati Parida was present at the event.
In line with the State’s long-term vision for ‘Samrudh Odisha-2036’ and the Vision for Vikshit Bharat 2047, this rebranding marks Odisha’s shift from being a lesser-known destination to a confident, globally competitive tourism hub, according to a statement. Parida highlighted that Odisha is evolving into a high-performance tourism economy, fueled by strategic branding, infrastructure improvements, and immersive visitor experiences.
The new tagline embodies a bold and aspirational identity that encourages global exploration of India through Odisha’s rich cultural, spiritual, and natural heritage, she stated. The event began with a ceremonial run along the Puri sea beach, attracting enthusiastic participation from fitness lovers and the local community.
The inaugural OMC Puri Coastal Marathon is set for December 13, 2026, featuring a total prize pool exceeding Rs 1 crore, positioning it among the most competitive running events in India.
Aimed at attracting elite athletes, amateur runners, and international participants, the marathon promises a unique running experience along Puri’s picturesque coastline, starting with a 6 km run on golden sand, according to officials. The event will include multiple race categories, such as a full marathon (42 km), half marathon (21 km), 10 km, and 5 km, ensuring inclusive participation.
During the event, the official marathon website was launched, and registrations are now open. Participants from across India and abroad can register starting April 22 to join this landmark international event, officials noted.
Globally recognized for the Shree Jagannath Temple, Puri offers a unique combination of spirituality, culture, and natural beauty. The marathon logo is inspired by iconic elements of Odisha, including the Patita Pavana Bana of Jagannath Temple, the Konark Chakra, and the waves of the Bay of Bengal, symbolizing motion, energy, and the state’s distinctive coastal character.
