Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi paid a heartfelt tribute to former chief minister Janaki Ballabh Patnaik, celebrating the late leader's enduring legacy on the occasion of his 100th birth anniversary. The event, held at the Capital High School grounds in Bhubaneswar, saw Majhi highlighting Patnaik's multifaceted personality and his immense contributions to the state's political and cultural landscape.
A Legacy of Composure and Intellectual Depth
Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi described Janaki Ballabh Patnaik, popularly known as JB, as an inspiring mentor whose life exemplified patience and continuous effort. "Continuous work and patience define success," Majhi stated, emphasizing that JB's ability to remain calm and steady in the face of difficulties was a key lesson for all.
Majhi outlined two defining aspects of the former chief minister's persona: his profound intellectual and cultural depth, and his exceptionally composed leadership style. He specifically credited JB for his significant role in fostering the growth of Odia language, literature, and culture.
The Multifaceted Journey: From Politics to Prose
CM Majhi painted a picture of a truly versatile individual. He noted that Janaki Ballabh Patnaik was simultaneously a prominent politician, an accomplished journalist and editor, a devout scholar, a translator, and an expert in oriental studies.
Recounting his remarkable political career spanning from 1971 to 2009, Majhi listed his various roles:
- Held positions as Deputy Minister, Minister of State, and Cabinet Minister at the Centre.
- Served as the Chief Minister of Odisha three times.
- Acted as the Leader of the Opposition in the state assembly.
- Served as the Governor of Assam from 2009 to 2014.
His foray into public life began early with active participation in student politics.
Literary Contributions and Industrial Vision
Beyond politics, journalism and literature were JB's natural callings. He adopted journalism as a mission in 1949 and achieved the rare feat of editing two newspapers at a young age. His literary journey began with the publication of "Gautam Buddha" in 1956.
His monumental contributions to Odia literature include translating epic texts like the Ramayana, Mahabharat, and Shrimad Bhagavad Gita into Odia prose. Translations of Bhartrihari's Shringara Shataka, Neeti Shataka, and Vairagya Shataka earned him wide acclaim. His writings during his tenure as Assam Governor and parts of his unfinished autobiography further reflect his scholarly depth.
Majhi also recalled JB's visionary call as Chief Minister in 1980 to establish "a thousand industries in a thousand days," a slogan that generated immense enthusiasm and helped drive the state's industrialization.
The centenary event also saw tributes from other dignitaries. Former CM and Leader of Opposition Naveen Patnaik, in a virtual address, said, "His contributions to advancing Odisha and to the welfare of the people will always be remembered." Former Karnataka CM Veerappa Moily, former Odisha CM Giridhar Gamang, and several other leaders were present to honor the late stalwart's memory.
