Odisha Governor Dr Hari Babu Kambhampati on Wednesday urged citizens to make collective efforts in building a ‘Viksit Odisha’ (Developed Odisha), firmly rooted in moral values. He made the appeal while addressing the Odisha Day celebrations at the newly inaugurated Abhishek Hall in Lok Bhavan.
In his keynote address, the Governor stressed that genuine development goes far beyond physical infrastructure and economic growth. “It must be reflected in honesty, compassion, discipline, and a strong sense of responsibility within society,” he said.
Describing Odisha Day as a celebration of the state’s shared identity, unity, and timeless spirit, Dr. Kambhampati extended warm greetings to all Odias on this auspicious occasion. The Governor’s wife, Dr. Jayashree Kambhampati, was present at the event.
The Governor highlighted Odisha’s exceptional natural beauty — its expansive coastline, dense forests, flowing rivers, and fertile plains — as a symbol of harmonious coexistence between nature and human life.
Recalling the state’s historic formation, he noted that April 1, 1936, marked the culmination of a long and arduous struggle for a separate Odisha. He paid homage to legendary leaders including Utkal Gourav Madhusudan Das, Utkalmani Gopabandhu Das, Krushna Chandra Gajapati, Nilakantha Das, Gaurishankar Ray, Ramachandra Mardaraj Deo, and Fakir Mohan Senapati, who fought both for India’s independence and the unification of Odia-speaking regions.
Dr. Kambhampati also spotlighted Odisha’s rich spiritual and cultural heritage, particularly the inclusive traditions of Lord Jagannath, which embody equality and universal brotherhood.
He lauded the contributions of all successive governments since Independence in strengthening the state’s foundations. The Governor specifically appreciated the current administration led by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi for advancing the state’s progress under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Calling upon citizens to collaborate, the Governor envisioned an Odisha that provides accessible healthcare, quality education, transparent governance, and remains free from crime, drugs, and superstitions. He specially appealed to the youth to lead with innovation while preserving Odia language, culture, and values to build an inclusive, secure, and prosperous future.
Other prominent speakers included Prof. Basant Kumar Panda, former Project Director of the Centre of Excellence for Studies in Classical Odia; Dr. Asit Kumar Swain, Director of Geological Survey of India’s State Unit; and Laxman Mukhi, Assistant Director of the Census Directorate, Bhubaneswar.
PRO to the Governor, Aishwarya Samant, delivered the welcome address. The programme concluded with a vibrant cultural performance showcasing Odisha’s rich artistic traditions.
