A state-level ceremony marked the 11th death anniversary of former Odisha Chief Minister Janaki Ballabh Patnaik, celebrating his contributions to Odisha’s political and cultural life.
The Janaki Ballabh Patnaik Centenary Committee organised the event, where distinguished personalities were felicitated with the Janaki Ballabh Memorial Award.
‘Pragativadi’ Executive Editor Birupakshya Tripathy received the honour alongside noted columnist and writer Dash Benhur and social worker Dr. Badrinath Patnaik. Dash Benhur’s son Jay accepted the award on his behalf. Padma Shri linguist Debi Prasanna Pattanayak delivered a heartfelt tribute, while Dr. Arya Kumar Gyanendra presided over the ceremony.
Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari, addressing the gathering, emphasised that governance and society thrive only when leaders possess wisdom, dignity, and moral strength. He urged politicians to cultivate knowledge and integrity, citing Janaki Ballabh Patnaik as a model of intellectual leadership.
Former Minister Devi Prasad Mishra echoed the sentiment, saying every leader should embody philosophical depth, referencing Plato’s idea of the “philosopher king.” Swami Brahmananda Saraswati lamented the decline of knowledgeable leaders, asserting that figures like Biju Patnaik and Janaki Ballabh Patnaik are irreplaceable.
Former Minister Panchanan Kanungo highlighted Janaki Ballabh Patnaik’s early political journey and his close association with Pragativadi founder Pradyumna Bal, noting his remarkable rise from journalist to national leader.
Books Jati Daan by Banambar Barik and Jhuruchhi Neela Jamuna by poet Chintamani Das were released during the event. Students who excelled in competitions received awards, and senior advocate Shivananda Ray offered the vote of thanks.
READ IN ODIA:
