Bhubaneswar, Apr 28: Political leaders across party lines, including Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, and various socio-cultural organizations gathered to honor 'Utkal Gourav' Madhusudan Das on his 177th birth anniversary. A large crowd assembled near the statue of Madhusudan Das at Raj Bhavan Square, paying their respects by offering flowers.
Madhusudan Das, fondly known as Madhu Babu, was a trailblazer in numerous fields. He was the first Odia to earn an MA degree from Calcutta University and the first Odia to serve as a member of both the Legislative Council and the Central Legislative Assembly. Widely regarded as the architect of the Odia movement, he was also a key figure in the region's industrial development and the founder of Utkal Sammilani.
Fondly referred to as 'Kula Brudha' (The Elder of the Family), Madhusudan Das played a pivotal role in the unification of the scattered Odia-speaking regions, leaving an indelible mark on the state's history.
"Today marks the birth anniversary of Utkal Gourav Madhusudan Das, and the Odisha government extends its heartfelt tributes to him on this special occasion. Madhu Babu played a pivotal role in the creation of Odisha as a separate state, and he remains a source of immense pride for the people of Odisha. His contributions to the industrialization of the state were also instrumental.
Our government is committed to fulfilling the vision set by Madhu Babu. On Utkal Dibasa, celebrated on April 1, we honored him at his birthplace in Satyabhamapur, Cuttack district," said Chief Minister Majhi after paying his respects to Madhu Babu.
