Bhubaneswar, November 14: In a major push to promote a drug-free society and empower the younger generation, around 15,000 students from across Odisha will come together at UMANG 2026, a mega youth festival scheduled to be held at Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar on November 17.

Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi and internationally renowned spiritual leader Sri Sri Ravi Shankar will grace the event.

Organised by The Art of Living in association with Sri Sri University, and in collaboration with the State Government's Social Security and Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (SSEPD) Department, the festival will be held from 3 PM to 6 PM, coinciding with International Students' Day.

Also Read: Survivors urge Odisha CM to declare February 9 as ‘Bonded Labour Abolition Day’

The event will also witness the participation of Higher Education, Sports and Youth Services Minister Suryabanshi Suraj and Skill Development and Technical Education Minister Sampad Charan Swain.

One of the key highlights of the festival will be a ‘Youth Pledge Against Drugs’, during which thousands of students will collectively commit themselves to staying away from drugs and building a healthier, safer and drug-free Odisha.

The initiative aims to transform young participants into ambassadors of change, encouraging them to spread awareness among their peers and communities.

Ravi Shankar will interact with students in an engaging session, sharing insights on managing stress, developing clarity of thought and living with compassion, confidence and purpose.

Adding a unique musical flavour to the festival will be a special Bhajan Clubbing performance by Nirvana Station of The Art of Living.