In a momentous event celebrating Odisha’s revolutionary heritage, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi unveiled a full-sized statue of freedom fighter Dharanidhar Naik at the entrance to Keonjhar town today.
The ceremony, held at Nekada Ghar Chowk in Jamunalia, marked the fulfilment of a promise made by the CM earlier this year, underscoring the region’s deep-rooted spirit of resistance and inspiration.
Speaking at the special function, the Chief Minister described Dharanidhar as a beacon of inspiration for the people of Keonjhar. “Keonjhar’s soil is revolutionary soil. Many freedom fighters were born here, but whenever revolutionaries are discussed, Dharanidhar Naik’s name stands foremost in our district,” he said. He emphasised that this land is not just known for its mines but also for its fighting spirit. “I gave my word, and I kept it. On May 5 this year, I promised that the son of Kendujhar’s soil would receive due honour, with his statue not only in the capital but also at the gateway to Keonjhar. Today, that promise has been realised.”
Dharanidhar Naik, a tribal leader, led the famous ‘Dharani Meli’ rebellion against the tyrannical monarchy’s atrocities on innocent subjects. The CM highlighted how Dharanidhar’s life embodied resistance against injustice, inspiring generations. “He was a warrior son who rebelled against oppressive rule, and his strength continues to motivate us all. This soil knows how to fight back,” Majhi added.
Reflecting on life’s purpose, the CM noted, “Human life is hard-earned and must be made meaningful. It’s not about living long, but about the significant contributions one makes. Dharanidhar’s journey teaches us this—his early life was dedicated to igniting the fire of independence through rebellion, while his later years were spent in spiritual pursuit, seeking divine blessings for the nation’s freedom and integrity.”
The event also paid tribute to another local icon, Padma Shri Daitari Naik, known as the ‘Canal Man.’ The CM praised Naik’s extraordinary feat of single-handedly digging a canal from Gonasika Hill to his village, Talabaitarani, over three years using just a hoe and a crowbar. “One crowbar and one hoe can instil self-confidence in a person—this is what we learn from Daitari Babu. His inspiring story reached Prime Minister Narendra Modi, leading to his Padma Shri award in 2019. He, too, is a revolutionary in his own right,” said Majhi.
The program was attended by notable dignitaries, including Padma Shri Daitari Naik, MP Ananta Nayak, MLAs Dr. Fakir Nayak, Akhila Nayak, Mamita Nayak, Shyam Sundar Nayak, descendants of Dharanidhar such as artist Kalakar Nayak, and representatives from the Bhuyan community.
This unveiling not only honours Dharanidhar’s legacy but also reinforces Kendujhar’s role in India’s freedom struggle, inspiring future generations to uphold the values of justice and resilience.
