Odisha marked a significant historical occasion with the grand state-level Jayanti celebration of Dharanidhar Nayak, the revered revolutionary leader and freedom fighter.
The commemorative event, held at Nayak’s birthplace in Kusumita, Keonjhar, saw Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi laying the foundation stone for a memorial and lecture centre worth ₹50 crore, dedicated to preserving the legacy of this fearless patriot.
In a speech celebrating Nayak’s contributions to the state and the nation, CM Majhi declared an array of infrastructural projects to boost Keonjhar’s development. A total of ₹1,155 crore has been allocated for 340 new projects, including the inauguration of 104 schemes, the foundation laying of 214 projects, and the announcement of 22 fresh initiatives aimed at enhancing education, healthcare, transportation, and irrigation across the region.
One of the standout announcements was the establishment of an Atithi Bhavan (guest house) in Bhubaneswar in honour of Dharanidhar Nayak, ensuring his name remains etched in Odisha’s institutional fabric. Additionally, efforts are underway to protect Nayak’s ancestral home, integrate it within a larger memorial, and develop a cultural heritage centre that will serve as a tourist attraction and knowledge hub.
The industrial landscape of Keonjhar is also set to transform, as a Mega Steel Plant worth ₹35,000 crore will soon come up in the district, creating over 30,000 jobs. CM Majhi emphasised that these initiatives would boost the region’s economic standing and provide better opportunities for its residents.
Honouring Nayak as a figure who represented both revolutionary spirit and spiritual wisdom, CM Majhi urged citizens to channel his ideals into constructive progress. “While past generations fought for freedom, today, our fight is for development and prosperity,” he stated.
The celebration was attended by several dignitaries, including Keonjhar MP Ananta Nayak, MLAs from various constituencies, and government officials. Dharanidhar Nayak’s descendants also participated in the event.
Odisha’s government continues to take strides in preserving and honouring the state’s revolutionary history while simultaneously driving modernisation and economic growth—a testament to Dharanidhar Nayak’s enduring influence.
