Naveen Patnaik to Forego Diwali Celebrations in Solidarity with Flood-Hit Odisha Families

Patnaik said floods triggered by Cyclone Arnab had caused extensive damage in Ganjam and Gajapati, leaving thousands of residents struggling in the aftermath of the disaster. He expressed concern over the difficulties faced by affected families.

He also pointed to the continuing search for people missing after landslides in Kandhamal district, where rescue teams are working to locate those feared trapped beneath the debris.

In view of the suffering of the affected communities, Patnaik said he would refrain from celebrating the festival of lights this year.

The BJD leader is currently visiting flood-affected parts of Ganjam district to assess the damage and interact with residents.

Cyclone-Related Toll Rises to Six

The death toll linked to Cyclone Arnab and the subsequent flooding in Odisha has risen to six, while 10 people remain missing, according to state authorities. The government has also announced a special relief package for affected families.

Special Relief Commissioner Rajesh P. Patil said the cyclone, which made landfall in Andhra Pradesh on October 28, and the subsequent floods had affected approximately 1.18 lakh people across Odisha.

The disaster also damaged 1,672 houses and affected 75,388 hectares of agricultural land.

Among the worst-hit locations was Gidipabali, a hilltop village on the Ganjam-Kandhamal border. A massive flow of sludge and debris following heavy cyclone-related rainfall swept through the settlement, destroying houses and effectively wiping out the village.

At least 13 people who managed to escape the landslide have been moved to a relief centre near G. Udayagiri.

The state government is also exploring new disaster-management strategies in response to the scale of the destruction.

Diwali, which is celebrated with lamps, lights and prayers for prosperity, will fall on Sunday, November 8, in 2026, according to the Hindu calendar.