Bhubaneswar: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi paid tribute to the life and achievements of Utkal Keshari Dr Harekrushna Mahatab, describing him as the architect of modern Odisha, during the commemoration of his 125th birth anniversary in Bhubaneswar.
Speaking at the event organized by the Odia Language, Literature, and Culture Department, the Chief Minister said, “Modern Odisha cannot be imagined without Dr Mahatab.”
Dr Mahatab, a freedom fighter, politician, historian, and literary figure, played a pivotal role in Odisha’s social, political, and economic progress.
Inspired by Mahatma Gandhi, he actively participated in India’s freedom movement and was instrumental in Odisha’s Non-Cooperation, Salt Satyagraha, and Quit India movements. He was imprisoned multiple times between 1921 and 1946 for his activism.
The Chief Minister highlighted Dr Mahatab’s key contributions as the Prime Minister of Odisha before independence and later as its first Chief Minister. He emphasized Dr Mahatab’s efforts in the merger of princely states with the Indian Union, initiating the Hirakud Dam project for flood control and industrial development, and establishing Bhubaneswar as the state capital.
“His vision laid the foundation for Odisha’s transformation from a neglected state to a progressive one,” Majhi said.
The event also reflected on Dr Mahatab’s legacy as the driving force behind institutions like the Odisha State Museum, Nandankanan, and the Odisha Sahitya Akademi. Acknowledging his lasting impact, Majhi announced plans to create a biopic, establish a museum at his birthplace in Bhadrak district, and erect a statue to honour him.
Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo emphasized the importance of teaching the younger generation about Dr. Mahatab’s contributions, while Minister for Odia Language, Literature, and Culture Suryabansi Suraj remarked that the year-long celebration of his birth anniversary elevates it to a national level.
Several books, including Man of Destiny and Mahanayak Mahatab, were released at the event. The occasion also honoured literary figures Shankar Lal Purohit, Nishamani Kar, and Govinda Chandra Chand for their contributions to Odia literature.
The program, inaugurated at the national level in New Delhi by President Draupadi Murmu, was attended by prominent leaders, including Union Ministers Dharmendra Pradhan and Gajendra Singh Shekhawat. Cuttack MP Bhartruhari Mahatab, the son of Dr. Mahatab, also graced the occasion.
As Odisha approaches the centenary of its formation in 2036, the Chief Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to achieving a developed and prosperous state inspired by the principles and ideals of Dr. Mahatab.
“Dr Mahatab’s legacy will continue to guide us in building a brighter future for Odisha,” Majhi concluded.
