Bhubaneswar : Odisha Governor Dr. Hari Babu Kambhampati on Tuesday graced the 98th death anniversary of Utkalmani Pandit Gopabandhu Das and described the revered leader as an illustrious architect of modern Odisha whose life of courage, compassion and selfless service continues to inspire generations.
Addressing the gathering at Saheed Bhawan in Cuttack, the Governor noted that he belongs to the rare category of personalities who transcend time and remain a living source of inspiration. He emphasized that Pandit Gopabandhu Das lived only fifty-one years yet accomplished extraordinary feats through his selfless service, leaving behind a legacy of compassion, courage, character and dedication to the nation and society.
Highlighting Pandit Gopabandhu Das’s enduring legacy, the Governor recalled his multifaceted contributions as a fearless freedom fighter, visionary legislator and dedicated social reformer. The Governor made special mention of his role in the Non-Cooperation Movement, his efforts towards the unification of Odia-speaking regions, the establishment of Satyabadi Bana Vidyalaya and the founding of ‘The Samaja’ as an instrument of public awakening and ethical journalism.
Describing the leader as a social reformer, Governor said that he transformed compassion into action and dedicated every sphere of his life to the service of society. Whether through education, literature, journalism or humanitarian service, his singular mission was to uplift the people and build a just, enlightened and self-reliant society.
The Governor also recalled Pandit Gopabandhu Das’s extraordinary humanity, particularly the incident when he chose to serve flood-affected people even as his own son lay critically ill, which earned him the revered title ‘Utkalmani’- the Jewel of Odisha.
Praising ‘The Samaja’ for more than a century of dedicated service, Governor said that its unwavering commitment to credibility, editorial integrity and ethical journalism has earned the trust of generations and established it as a respected institution of public service, promoting informed public opinion and democratic values. During the programme, the Governor unveiled a special supplement ‘Gopabandhunka Shradha Sankhya’.
Among others, Rajendra Kumar Jena, Printer & Publisher, The Samaja; Ram Nath Jha, Secretary, SOPS; Deepak Malviya, Vice President, SOPS and Raj Kumar, President, SOPS also addressed the gathering. Tapan Kumar Mishra, Editor, The Samaja delivered the welcome address.
