Former Odisha Chief Minister and Biju Janata Dal (BJD) president Naveen Patnaik is recovering well at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital in Mumbai following a successful cervical surgery.
On Thursday, from his hospital bed, he extended heartfelt greetings to the people of Odisha on the occasion of the world-famous Puri Rath Yatra, a significant cultural and religious event dedicated to Lord Jagannath.
On Friday, Patnaik, showing signs of steady recovery, watched the live telecast of the Rath Yatra on television, a moment that resonated deeply with his supporters.
A video of Patnaik watching the festival was shared on social media by his close aide, V.K. Pandian, sparking widespread appreciation among netizens for his dedication to Odisha’s traditions despite his medical condition.
The Rath Yatra, an annual chariot festival that draws millions to Puri, holds immense significance for Odias worldwide, and Patnaik’s gesture underscores his enduring connection with the state’s cultural heritage.
Patnaik, who served as Odisha’s Chief Minister for over two decades, underwent the surgery earlier this week and is under close medical supervision. Doctors have reported his condition as stable, with expectations of a full recovery soon.
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