Bhubaneswar: The Odisha Legislative Assembly on Wednesday observed the 142nd birth anniversary of eminent freedom fighter, social reformer and educationist Pandit Nilakantha Das, with dignitaries paying floral tributes to his statue in the Assembly premises.
Speaking on the occasion, Speaker Surama Padhi described Pandit Nilakantha Das as a distinguished nationalist who was inspired by the freedom movement from his student days and remained committed to the fight against social evils and superstitions. She said he possessed multifaceted talents and played an active role in the movement for the creation of a separate Odisha province.
The Speaker noted that Pandit Nilakantha Das made significant contributions in diverse fields as a freedom fighter, teacher, educationist, politician, writer and orator. Besides serving as the Speaker of the Odisha Legislative Assembly, he also held the position of President of the Odisha Sahitya Akademi. His contribution to the state’s history and society continues to inspire future generations, she said.
Former MLA Priyadarshi Mishra, office-bearers of the Pandit Nilakantha Das Smruti Samiti and Utkal Sammilani, President of Pujyapuja Sanskriti Suraksha Abhiyan, Legislative Assembly Secretary Satyabrata Raut and several others also offered floral tributes and paid homage to the legendary leader.
The programme concluded with patriotic songs presented by Saswati Samajik O Sanskrutik Anusthan. Legislative Assembly Public Relations Officer Rosalin Sahu coordinated the event.
