Odisha BJP marks Gopabandhu Das anniversary with service pledge

Thousands of party workers gathered in Odisha to honor the 149th birth anniversary of Utkalmani Gopabandhu Das, the legendary social reformer and freedom fighter. BJP leaders used the commemoration to link his historical legacy of public service to the party’s current national campaign for a developed India by 2047.

Editorial·October 9, 2026·reads: 598

Odisha BJP marks Gopabandhu Das anniversary with service pledge

BJP national spokesperson Sambit Patra emphasized that Gopabandhu Das remains the ultimate embodiment of 'Seva' or selfless service. During the event, Patra noted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called for citizens across all ideological lines to adopt this spirit to achieve national development goals. The party officially pledged to carry this mission into every village across the state, framing it as a direct continuation of the reformer’s life work.

State President Manmohan Samal described Das as a beacon of trust who consistently stood with the public during droughts, earthquakes, and other regional calamities. Beyond his humanitarian efforts, Das is celebrated for his pivotal role in creating a separate Odisha province and defending the Odia language. MLA Om Prakash Mishra reported that between 10,000 and 15,000 workers attended the event to pay their respects to the leader, who was born on 9 October 1877 in Suando village near Puri.