NEW DELHI: President Droupadi Murmu inaugurated the 125th Birth Anniversary Celebration of freedom fighter and former Odisha chief minister Dr Harekrushna Mahtab, known as Utkal Keshari, in New Delhi on Thursday. She described him as an inspirational leader whose legacy will continue to motivate future generations. The event was also attended by Union Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Sekhawat, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, and Cuttack MP Bhartruhari Mahatab. A special commemorative stamp and coin were released during the occasion.
In her address, the President highlighted that Dr Harekrushna Mahtab was a visionary leader who recognised that physical development alone is insufficient; cultural awareness is equally essential. An eminent writer, Dr Mahtab fostered a vibrant cultural environment in Odisha and made significant contributions to promoting art, literature, and music in the state.
The President noted that numerous important development projects occurred during Dr Harekrushna Mahtab’s terms as Prime Minister and Chief Minister of Odisha. He played a crucial role in the construction of multipurpose dam projects on the Mahanadi River. Thanks to initiatives such as the Hirakud Dam and others, Odisha emerged as a leading state in power generation. Dr Mahtab also significantly contributed to the establishment of the Odisha Legislative Assembly, State Secretariat, State Museum, various academies, and Nandankanan Zoo, while placing great emphasis on sports development. Under his guidance, Barabati Stadium was built in Cuttack. During his tenure as Governor of the then Bombay Province, he undertook various public welfare initiatives, earning the respect of the people in that extensive region.
The President remarked that Dr Harekrushna Mahtab viewed patriotism as the foundation for national development. Through his statements and writings, he inspired citizens with nationalist ideas. She expressed confidence that his leadership qualities and nationalist vision will remain a lasting source of inspiration for all.
Dr Mahatab was a Visionary – Dharmendra Pradhan
On this occasion, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan stated that ‘Utkal Kesari’ Dr Harekrushna Mahtab embodies the pride and glory of Odisha. He was not only a freedom fighter but also a great social reformer, respected politician, orator, poet, novelist, eminent historian, and journalist. He represented a living symbol of Odia identity, and the historical accounts he penned about Odisha serve as a guide for the future.
Shri Pradhan further mentioned that later in his life, Dr Mahatab travelled extensively across Odisha, bringing local art and culture to the forefront. His aim was to promote national unity, foster harmony within the state, and inspire the younger generation. Even in his final moments, Mahatab continued to motivate the youth, demonstrating his exceptional character and working as a master statesman, leaving a lasting personal imprint throughout Odisha.
During his tenure as Chief Minister, Dr. Mahatab made transformative decisions, including establishing Bhubaneswar as the capital of Odisha and transforming it into the ‘Temple City.’ Alongside Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, Mahatab played a crucial role in integrating princely states and feudal regions into the unified Indian Union. It was also during his time in office that the Hirakud Dam was constructed. These actions highlight his vision as a leader and his status as a national figure. His contributions to social reform, literary creativity, and journalistic insight were exceptional.
Dr Mahatab was the ‘Sardar Patel of Odisha’: CM Majhi
On this occasion, Odisha CM Mohan Majhi praised Dr. Mahatab for his contributions, stating he was the Sardar Patel of Odisha.
“We recognise the significant role of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel in achieving the integration of the princely states into the Union of India. Similarly, Dr. Mahatab was the ‘Sardar Patel of Odisha,’ as he facilitated the merger of various princely states into the state of Odisha,” Majhi said, describing Mahatab as a beacon of “solidarity and responsive administration.”
