Odisha’s renowned leader Harish Chandra Baxipatra’s life, service, and values will forever serve as a source of inspiration for others, stated Governor Dr. Hari Babu Kambhampati.
Speaking as the chief guest at Baxipatra’s 92nd birth anniversary celebration held at Jaydev Bhawan in Bhubaneswar on Monday, the Governor urged the public to draw inspiration from the late leader’s biography, values, courage, humility, and unwavering dedication to public service.
In his address, the Governor emphasised that speaking truth with courage, providing selfless service without expectations, and working for those in greatest need would be the highest tribute to Baxipatra. Describing him as a brave, enthusiastic, principled, and people-centric leader from Odisha, the Governor noted that Baxipatra’s life was dedicated to strengthening democracy, protecting rights, and uplifting the vulnerable.
Shedding light on Baxipatra’s political journey, the Governor highlighted that his leadership was defined not by positions but by values and actions. Whether in government, opposition, or among the people, Baxipatra remained steadfast. He stood as a voice for farmers, labourers, and neglected communities whose concerns often went unheard.
The Governor also focused on Baxipatra’s role in movements for linguistic pride, social justice, and regional identity, which ignited a new era of political consciousness. He added that the late leader firmly believed silence was never acceptable during moral crises.
Recalling the Emergency period, the Governor said Baxipatra chose imprisonment over compromising democratic principles. Sharing a personal anecdote, the Governor mentioned his own six-month jail term following the JP movement, underscoring the importance of protecting democratic rights in challenging times.
The Governor praised Baxipatra’s contributions to journalism as the founder-editor of the Odia fortnightly Lokaniti, which promoted democratic discourse and informed citizenship. He lauded Baxipatra’s dedication to Odisha’s linguistic and cultural identity, stating that development should always advance hand-in-hand with heritage preservation.
Concluding his speech, the Governor encapsulated Baxipatra’s life in one message: “Positions may come and go, but commitment to the people must remain steadfast.”
Among others, former minister and memorial committee president Prafulla Chandra Ghadei, renowned Supreme Court lawyer Dushyant Dave, and eminent writer Dash Benhur addressed the gathering. Memorial committee general secretary Lopamudra Baxipatra delivered the welcome address.
On this occasion, a special edition of Lokniti and a book on the late Harishchandra Baxipatra were unveiled. The Harishchandra Baxipatra Memorial Award was also presented.
