Bhubaneswar: Former Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik was the center of attraction at the swearing-in ceremony of the new BJP government held here on Wednesday.

Patnaik, who shared the stage with top BJP leaders, was seen discussing with Prime Minister Narendra Modi after the swearing-in ceremony ended.

Four-time MLA from Keonjhar district and tribal leader Mohan Charan Majhi was sworn in as the first BJP chief minister of Odisha at a ceremony here attended by PM Modi, several Union ministers and chief ministers.

Senior BJP leader and Patnagarh MLA KV Singh Deo and Pravati Parida, who is contesting for the first time from Nimapara assembly constituency, took oath as Deputy Chief Ministers.

When Patnaik reached Janata Maidan in Bhubaneswar for the swearing-in ceremony, Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan welcomed him.

The veteran BJD leader was also seen shaking hands with Union Home Minister Amit Shah.

BJP President JP Nadda, Union Ministers Nitin Gadkari and Rajnath Singh, who were present on the stage during the program, congratulated the former Chief Minister of Odisha. Patnaik also replied smilingly.

Patnaik attended the event after being personally invited by Majhi. A BJP delegation had earlier invited him to the program.