125th Birth Anniversary of Dr. Harekrushna Mahtab

125th birth anniversary of Dr. Harekrushna Mahtab, a stalwart of Odisha’s political and cultural renaissance, is an opportunity to honor his extraordinary contributions to the state and the nation.

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The 125th birth anniversary of Dr. Harekrushna Mahtab, a stalwart of Odisha’s political and cultural renaissance, is an opportunity to honor his extraordinary contributions to the state and the nation. Popularly known as “Utkal Keshari” (Lion of Odisha), Dr. Mahtab was a visionary leader, freedom fighter, and statesman who played a pivotal role in shaping modern Odisha.

Early Life and Inspiration

Dr. Harekrushna Mahtab was born on November 21, 1899, in the Bhadrak district of Odisha. Inspired by Mahatma Gandhi, he was drawn to the ideals of non-violence and self-reliance. His participation in the Non-Cooperation Movement of 1920 marked the beginning of his journey as a freedom fighter and social reformer.

Political Contributions

Unification of Odisha

Dr. Mahtab is remembered for uniting 26 Odia-speaking princely states into a cohesive Odisha, laying the foundation for the state’s modern political identity. His relentless efforts to bring linguistic and cultural unity to the region earned him immense respect.

Chief Minister of Odisha

As the first Chief Minister of Odisha, serving from 1946 to 1950 and again from 1956 to 1961, he implemented several developmental initiatives. His governance focused on infrastructure development, industrialization, and the upliftment of Odisha’s marginalized communities.

Role in the Freedom Struggle

Dr. Mahtab was actively involved in the Civil Disobedience Movement and endured imprisonment multiple times. Despite challenges, he remained steadfast in his commitment to the cause of India’s independence.

Cultural Contributions

Founder of Prajatantra

In 1923, Dr. Mahtab founded the newspaper Prajatantra, which became a platform to promote democratic ideals and raise awareness about the socio-political issues of Odisha. His literary contributions, including essays and books, showcased his dedication to preserving and promoting Odia culture and heritage.

Architect of Odisha’s Renaissance

Beyond politics, Dr. Mahtab worked tirelessly to revive Odisha’s cultural pride, advocating for education, art, and literature. His efforts ensured that Odia identity found its rightful place in India’s cultural tapestry.

Legacy and Recognition

Dr. Mahtab’s legacy as a unifier, reformer, and nation-builder continues to inspire generations. His title “Utkal Keshari” reflects his lion-hearted dedication to Odisha and its people. The Harekrushna Mahtab State Library in Bhubaneswar stands as a testament to his lifelong love for learning and literature.