24th Memorial Day of Arjuna Das Observed
Kakatpur, 11/01/2025 (Tushar Dixit):
Today marked the 24th death anniversary of the late Arjuna Das, a revered and beloved son of Kakatpur soil, who significantly contributed to shaping the town with his commitment and service. Remembered as a compassionate and visionary leader, Arjuna Das played a pivotal role in establishing key institutions such as Balika Nodal High School, Kakatpur High School, and Kakatpur College. He was also instrumental in founding the English School in Gambharipada in 1965 and generously donated land for the Kakatpur Post Office.
As a dedicated freedom fighter, he brought immense pride to the region through his courageous and strategic involvement in the independence movement. A memorial meeting was held in his honor, presided over by Prabhat Kumar Tarai. Attending as Chief Guest was Krushak Cell President Amiya Kumar Pattnaik, with key addresses from main speaker Shashadhar Panda and Block Education Officer Dillip Kumar Jena.
Notable attendees included Dr. Trilochan Baral, Program Officer, State Department of Culture; social worker Jnana Ranjan Sahoo; Headmaster Lakshmidhar Pradhan; Swapneswar Sahoo; renowned local orator Nirod Baran Mohanty; Puri District Congress General Secretary Soumyakanta Khuntia; Sadhu Charan Biswal; editor Hrudananda Shasmal; and teacher Deepti Mohanty. Each reflected on Arjuna Das’s legacy and impactful deeds.
A heartfelt poem honoring Das was recited in a melodious voice, and local children who excelled in various disciplines were presented with certificates and mementos by the Smruti Committee. Additionally, Kamal Lochan Dixit, President of Kakatpur Press Club, and Akshaya Kumar Raut, President of the Media Forum, were honored for their contributions.
The program concluded with heartfelt tributes from Arjuna Das’s family members, who fondly remembered his life and work, paying homage to the soul of this great man.