Modi holds roadshow in Bhubaneswar

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a massive roadshow here on Tuesday evening to bolster BJP's prospects in the Lok Sabha and simultaneous assembly elections in Odisha.

Modi kicked-off the over six-km-long journey in an open vehicle amid tight security from near the Biju Patnaik International Airport as dusk descended on the sreets of Bhubaneswar, which was wrapped in saffron to match the occasion.

Thousands of people, including enthusiastic BJP workers gathered on both sides of the streets, jostled for a glimpse of Modi and cheered the prime minister. Chants of "Modi, Modi" rent the air as his campaign vehicle moved through the city's tree-lined streets during the 90-minute mega roadshow.

Modi, attired in white kurta with a saffron angavastram around his neck, waved at the crowds as his carcade proceeded to Baramunda Ground for BJP's 'Vijay Sankalp Sabha'.

The people showered flower petals on him as the roadshow passed through Airport square, Capital Hospital square, Ganga Nagar square, City Women's College, OUAT square, Siripur and Fire Brigade square.

BJP supporters wearing Modi masks and sporting saffron caps were seen dancing to drum beats. A large number of them held placards and waved party flags.

Onlookers also positioned themselves atop buildings and high-rise structures along the route to have a better view.

The prime minister's carcade incidentally passed through the intersection near the private residence of Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, who was out of the city campaigning for his party - the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) in western Odisha.

Odisha's rich cultutral heritage was showcased by several groups of artists who performed folk dances, demonstrated martial arts and presented musical recitals along the route. The roadside trees were decorated and illuminated with lights.

Modi's roadshow comes two years after a similar one he had undertaken on April 15, 2017 from the airport to Janata Maidan here.

While the first phase of voting in the state was held on April 11, the remaining phases will be held on April 18, 23 and 29.

BJP has set a target to win at least 120 of the 147 assembly seats in Odisha and substantially increase its tally in Lok Sabha.