THEBUSINESSBYTES
BUREAU
BHUBANESWAR,
JULY 14, 2026
Emphasising that the
life of Utkalmani Pandit Gopabandhu Das remains a timeless source of
inspiration, Odisha Governor Dr. Hari Babu Kambhampati on Tuesday said that the
legendary leader's courage, compassion and selfless service continue to guide
generations in building a just, enlightened and self-reliant society. He
described Gopabandhu Das as one of the foremost architects of modern Odisha
whose extraordinary contributions to the freedom movement, education,
journalism and social reform have left an indelible mark on the state's
history.
The Governor was
addressing the 98th death anniversary observance of Utkalmani Pandit Gopabandhu
Das at Saheed Bhawan in Cuttack.
Describing Gopabandhu
Das as a personality who transcends time, Dr. Kambhampati said he belonged to
the rare league of leaders whose ideals remain relevant across generations.
Although he lived for only 51 years, he accomplished remarkable feats through
his unwavering commitment to selfless service, leaving behind an enduring
legacy of compassion, courage, character and dedication to the nation and
society.
Highlighting the
multifaceted contributions of the revered leader, the Governor recalled his
role as a fearless freedom fighter, visionary legislator and committed social
reformer. He particularly referred to Gopabandhu Das's active participation in
the Non-Cooperation Movement, his efforts towards the unification of
Odia-speaking regions, the establishment of the Satyabadi Bana Vidyalaya and
the founding of The Samaja, which he described as a powerful instrument of
public awakening and ethical journalism.
Calling him a true
social reformer, Dr. Kambhampati said Gopabandhu Das transformed compassion
into action by dedicating every sphere of his life to the service of society.
Whether through education, literature, journalism or humanitarian work, his
singular mission was to uplift the people and foster an enlightened and
self-reliant society, he added.
The Governor also
recalled the iconic episode from Gopabandhu Das's life when he chose to serve
flood-affected people despite his own son being critically ill, a sacrifice
that earned him the revered title of "Utkalmani" or the Jewel of
Odisha.
Praising The Samaja for its more than a
century-long contribution to public life, Dr. Kambhampati said the newspaper's
steadfast commitment to credibility, editorial integrity and ethical journalism
has earned the trust of generations and established it as a respected
institution dedicated to promoting informed public opinion and democratic values.
He also appreciated the Servants of the People Society (Lok Sevak Mandal) for
preserving and carrying forward the rich legacy of Utkalmani Pandit Gopabandhu
Das.
On the occasion, the Governor unveiled the special commemorative supplement, Gopabandhunka Shradha Sankhya.
Rajendra Kumar Jena, Printer and Publisher of The Samaja; Ram Nath Jha, Secretary, Servants of the People Society (SOPS); Deepak Malviya, Vice President, SOPS; and Raj Kumar, President, SOPS, also addressed the gathering. Editor of The Samaja, Tapan Kumar Mishra, delivered the welcome address, while General Manager Gopinath Barik proposed the vote of thanks.
