Bhubaneswar: On Thursday, Odisha honored ‘Utkalmani’ Gopabandhu Das, a notable social worker, reformer, journalist, and freedom fighter, on his birth anniversary. The Governor of Odisha shared a post on X, stating, “On the birth anniversary of Utkalmani Pandit #Gopabandhudas, Hon’ble Governor Dr. Hari Babu Kambhampati has paid sincere tributes. His contributions to the freedom struggle, selfless service, and noble efforts to enrich the Odia language and literature will ensure he is forever remembered.” Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, Deputy Chief Minister K V Singh Deo, BJP State president Manmohan Samal, and other distinguished individuals offered floral tributes at Gopabandhu’s statue on the State Assembly grounds.
Majhi remarked on social media, “On the birth anniversary of this great freedom fighter, a key architect of a separate Odisha province and symbol of selfless service, Utkalmani Pandit Gopabandhu Das, I extend my heartfelt tribute and salutations. His deep patriotism, commitment to social reform, and contributions to education, literature, and journalism will ensure he is always remembered and revered.” The Leader of Opposition and BJD president Naveen Patnaik expressed, “On Utkalmani Pandit Gopabandhu Das’s birth anniversary, the life force of the Odia community, I offer my respectful homage. He devoted his life to serving the people.
His selfless sacrifices for the upliftment of society, along with his contributions to Odia language and literature, remain an eternal source of inspiration.” OPCC president, Bhakta Charan Das, also paid homage, referring to Gopabandhu as a pioneer of the freedom struggle and a gem of Utkal. “He exemplified sacrifice, service, and humanity, dedicating his life to aid the distressed and poor. His ideals and teachings continue to inspire the people of Odisha today,” Das stated. Gopabandhu Das was born on October 9, 1877, in Suando village, Puri district, and was honored with the title ‘Utkalmani’ (Gem of Odisha) by renowned chemist and educationist Prafulla Chandra Roy for his selfless service to the people.
He served as the first president of the Congress party in Odisha from 1920 until 1928. Gopabandhu Das passed away on July 17, 1928, after a prolonged illness.