Bhubaneswar, July 8: President Droupadi Murmu visited historic Udayagiri Caves Monday after returning from Puri.

Later, President Murmu interacted with the students of B.K. College of Arts and Crafts, and the Utkal University of Culture. She recalled her student days in Bhubaneswar and shared her experience while interacting with the students.

"This area (the surrounding area of Udayagiri) was surrounded by dense forests. I was unable to climb to the top of the caves. Now infrastructures are gradually replacing the forest. Most of the forests are out of the map," she said showing concern, adding: "We need to preserve these things to keep the nature safe."

President Murmu also recalled the time when saints used to live there. "I, along with my friends, used to interact with the saints. Now, it looks like a deserted place. The saints don't like to stay here anymore," she stated.

The President also shared her thoughts on the beauty of arts at Udayagiri Caves. "The rock inscriptions and the caves in Udayagiri are the symbols of the uniqueness of Odia arts. The map of the cave exhibits the people's rich skills in arts.We should preserve all these arts," Murmu asserted.

The President said to the students that she enjoyed the interaction. "I was a teacher before. So I am enjoying the conversations with all of you. Next time, I will make a visit to your colleges," Murmu signed off.

The President also received gifts from the students. After the interaction, she headed back to Raj Bhavan.

Earlier in the morning, President Murmu, who is currently on a four-day visit to Odisha, took a stroll at the Blue Flag Beach in Puri.

President Murmu arrived in Puri Sunday on the occasion of Rath Yatra and took the blessings of the Holy Trinity -- Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra.

Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, Deputy CMs -- Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo and Pravati Parida -- as well as Odisha Cabinet Ministers, MPs and MLAs were also in attendance as they took the blessings of the deities. Former CM and LoP Naveen Patnaik also graced the occasion.

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