Bhubaneswar: Biju Janata Dal (BJD) president and Leader of Opposition (LoP) Naveen Patnaik on Thursday paid tribute to his father and legendary statesman Biju Patnaik on his 28th death anniversary.
In a solemn ceremony held at Biju Patnaik Park in Bhubaneswar, Patnaik offered floral tributes to the statue of his late father, accompanied by senior party leaders, workers, and supporters.
To mark the occasion, a Shradh ceremony (Tila Tarpan) was performed on the banks of Bindu Sagar. The ritual saw the participation of prominent BJD leaders, party workers, and members of the public who gathered to remember the iconic leader’s contributions to the state and the nation.
Speaking at a commemorative event held at Sankha Bhawan, the LoP reflected on Biju Patnaik’s legacy.
“On the death anniversary of Biju Babu, I pay homage to a remarkable leader,” he said. “As an Odia, he was always proud of his roots and had a clear vision to see Odisha emerge as a leading state. From 2000 to 2024, the Biju Janata Dal has been working to realise that dream. Many developmental initiatives have taken place during this period and Odisha has gained both national and international recognition.”
He also criticised efforts to undermine the legacy of Biju Patnaik.
“Some people are deliberately trying to erase the contributions and sacrifices of our great leader. There are attempts to distort history. But history reflects the collective experience of a nation over time—it cannot be rewritten to suit individual interests. Instead of wasting time on such acts, they must focus on development and meaningful work. That is how we can truly honour Odisha and add new, positive chapters to its history,” Patnaik said. He concluded his speech with the slogan, “Bande Utkala Janani.”
As part of the observance, BJD leaders and volunteers distributed fruits to patients at Capital Hospital. The initiative saw participation from numerous party members, including MLAs, senior leaders, and local corporators.
Among those present were MLAs Susant Kumar Rout and Ananta Narayan Jena, former minister Ashok Chandra Panda, Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation Mayor Sulochana Das, senior leader Manmath Kumar Routray, and other BJD functionaries.
The 28th death anniversary of Biju Patnaik was marked across the state with various events organised by the party to honour his enduring legacy and contribution to the development of Odisha.
