Tribute to Freedom Fighters Reflects Our Pride
Puri, 21/05 – The memory of freedom fighters in India’s independence movement remains a glorious chapter in the nation’s history, continuing to inspire generation after generation, said renowned Gandhian Prahlad Singh. Speaking today at the 93rd Salt Satyagraha Memorial Ceremony held at the historic Satyagraha site of Kuhudi under Astaranga block, he highlighted the sacrifices of freedom fighters as unforgettable and unmatched.
The event was jointly organized by the Department of Information & Public Relations and the Utkal Sangrami Smruti Samiti. In his keynote address, Mr. Singh provided deep insight into the Indian freedom struggle and the Salt Satyagraha, emphasizing that the courage, sacrifice, and patriotism shown by the freedom fighters of Kuhudi remain extraordinary and inspirational for future generations.
Presiding over the event, Amiya Pattnaik, Working President of the Utkal Sangrami Smruti Samiti, shared detailed information on Kuhudi’s proud history and the contribution of local freedom fighters. Santosh Kumar Sethi, District Information and Public Relations Officer, welcomed everyone and informed that this annual event aims to raise awareness among future generations about our rich and glorious heritage.
Astaranga Tehsildar Rajalakshmi Nayak administered the National Unity Pledge to all attendees. Distinguished guests also unveiled a commemorative souvenir. On this occasion, freedom fighter Radhi Dei was posthumously honored. Her granddaughter-in-law Kanaklata Nayak received the honor from District Council Vice-President Swadhin Nayak.
Messages of best wishes were read out from the Governor, Chief Minister, Union Minister of Education, Ministers of Information & Public Relations, Tourism & Culture, Youth Services & Sports, PCC President, Puri Collector, former Minister Surendra Nath Nayak, and Utkal Sangrami Samiti President Somanath Patra.
The event began at dawn with Ramdhun chanting and a procession from Block Square to Kuhudi. Garlanding of statues and memorial plaques of local heroes was carried out at various locations, followed by the hoisting of the National Flag at Kuhudi.
Several dignitaries including former MLA Surendra Sethi, Astaranga Block Chairperson Arati Nayak, Kakatpur Block Chairperson Sridhar Nayak, District Council Members Saraswati Swain and Banita Behera, Smruti Samiti member Dibakar Chatoi, Vice-President Deshabandhu Swain, Advisor Golakh Mohanty, General Secretary Nirad Baran Mohanty, and Astaranga Sarpanch Ramchandra Kandi participated in the program. They also felicitated the winners of competitions held earlier as part of the celebrations.
In conclusion, BDO Dr. Babita Manjari Nayak extended the vote of thanks. Eminent educators Kalandi Chatoi and Satyabrata Lenka were among the key collaborators. The Department of Culture presented various cultural performances during the event.
