Bhubaneswar: Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi paid glowing tributes to Utkal Gourab Madhusudan Das, describing him as Odisha’s first visionary who awakened the pride and identity of the Odia people.
Speaking at the state-level birth anniversary celebration of Madhu Babu at Jayadev Bhawan, organized by the Information and Public Relations Department on Monday, Majhi said the formation of a separate Utkal Pradesh in 1936, after Madhu Babu’s passing, fulfilled his dream.
He expressed hope that by 2036, Odisha would emerge as a prosperous state, realizing another of Madhu Babu’s visions and serving as the greatest tribute to him.
Majhi highlighted Madhu Babu’s role as the pioneer of Odia pride, calling him a symbol of self-respect and the architect of the state’s identity.
He noted Madhu Babu’s trailblazing achievements as the first Odia graduate, the first Odia lawyer educated abroad, the first Odia industrialist, and a leader in numerous fields.
The Chief Minister emphasized that Madhu Babu dedicated his life to fostering political consciousness and safeguarding Odia interests through relentless struggle.
Madhu Babu founded the Utkal Sammilani to advocate for a separate Odisha, making multiple trips to London to present compelling arguments to the British government. The Utkal Sammilani served as his primary platform to unify Odia-speaking regions and promote advancements in cottage industries, agriculture, commerce, education, and culture, sparking a new awakening in Odisha.
Criticizing the previous government for superficial efforts, Majhi stated that the current administration is committed to genuine reverence for Odisha’s icons.
This year, Utkal Divas was celebrated at Madhu Babu’s birthplace, Satyabhamapur, elevating the tradition of honouring him. The government has initiated projects worth ₹21 crore to develop Madhu Babu’s birthplace as a center of Odia nationalism. Plans are underway to invest further in developing his memorial and birthplace, with the Chief Minister directing the preparation of a detailed project report (DPR). Additionally, the Utkal Tannery, associated with Madhu Babu’s legacy, will be transformed into a landmark.
Majhi affirmed the Odia community’s resolve to build a prosperous Odisha by 2036, rooted in the principles of identity, aspiration, and relentless effort. He stressed that willpower is key to achieving this vision, uniting the Odia people to make Odisha India’s leading state.
Keynote speaker Dash Benhur, a noted columnist, said remembering Madhu Babu is synonymous with celebrating the awakening of Odia identity.
He described Madhu Babu as Odisha’s greatest figure, who sacrificed everything to preserve Odia existence and used his legal career to fight injustice.
Benhur highlighted the Utkal Tannery, Odisha Artware, and Utkal Sammilani as enduring pillars of Madhu Babu’s legacy.
The event featured a performance of the play Nishith Surya by Lavanya Theatre, Bhubaneswar, depicting Madhu Babu’s contributions. Chief Minister Majhi felicitated the artists and director.
Sanjay Kumar Singh, Principal Secretary of the Information and Public Relations Department, delivered the welcome address, while Director Deb Prasad Dash proposed the vote of thanks.
