Bhubaneswar: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Friday urged the youth to follow the ideals of Utkalmani Pandit Gopabandhu Das and dedicate themselves to the service of society and the nation while pursuing their personal aspirations.
Majhi made the appeal while paying floral tributes to the eminent freedom fighter and social reformer on his birth anniversary by garlanding his statue on the premises of the Odisha Legislative Assembly.
Remembering Gopabandhu Das as a symbol of Odia pride and identity, the chief minister said he had devoted his entire life to serving the poor, the neglected and people affected by natural disasters, including floods and cyclones.
“Sacrificing his own comforts and happiness, he devoted his entire life to serving the poor, the neglected and those affected by floods and cyclones,” Majhi said.
He described Gopabandhu Das as a pioneer of India’s freedom movement who led a simple life and strongly advocated the principles of Mahatma Gandhi.
The chief minister also highlighted his contributions as a social worker, writer and poet, noting that he had dedicated himself to spreading the message of the freedom struggle.
Calling upon the younger generation to draw inspiration from the ideals and way of life of the great leader, Majhi said young people should strive to fulfil their dreams while also contributing to the welfare of society and the nation.
He said his government was committed to serving the people of Odisha, accelerating development and building a prosperous state.
“With our vision of building a ‘Samruddha Odisha 2036’, we must continue to work by following the principles and ideals of the great Utkalmani Pandit Gopabandhu Das,” Majhi said.
Odisha Assembly Speaker Surama Padhy, Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari, Ekamra-Bhubaneswar MLA Babu Singh and other dignitaries were also present on the occasion.
