Gadkari Honors Dr. Harekrushna Mahatab’s Contributions on 125th Birth Anniversary

Cuttack, April 17 :Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, on Thursday paid tribute to Dr. Harekrushna Mahatab on his 125th birth anniversary, emphasizing the lasting impact of Mahatab’s contributions to Odisha and the nation. Gadkari, while participating in the national conference organized at Ravenshaw University, stated that history would always remember Dr. Mahatab’s instrumental role in the construction of the Hirakud Dam and in establishing Bhubaneswar as the capital of Odisha.

“It is not important how long a person lives, but how they live and what they achieve in that time. This is the lesson we can learn from the life of Dr. Harekrushna Mahatab,” Gadkari remarked, reflecting on the transformative leadership of the late leader. He further highlighted Dr. Mahatab’s promotion of education in Odisha, noting the strong link between self-confidence and knowledge.

Gadkari also spoke about Dr. Mahatab’s vision for a new sunrise for Odisha while he was imprisoned in Ahmednagar Jail during the freedom struggle, underlining the leader’s commitment to progressive ideals and development. He stressed that development required collective commitment, and strong willpower was key to overcoming challenges. “If there is a will, a way will be found,” Gadkari emphasized, advocating for the power of determination in project success.

The Union Minister pointed out the four pillars essential to Odisha’s development: water, power, transport, and communication. He further elaborated on the initiatives to develop smart villages, alongside efforts to build smart cities, under the leadership of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee.

Speaking on the same occasion, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi lauded Dr. Mahatab as a freedom fighter, statesman, diplomat, literary figure, and journalist, who played a key role in shaping modern Odisha. Majhi recalled that it was Dr. Mahatab’s vision and efforts, in collaboration with Sardar Patel, that led to the merger of 26 princely states into Odisha, expanding the state’s area to 1,55,707 square kilometers.

“He is the Sardar Patel of Odisha,” Majhi said, recognizing Dr. Mahatab’s dedication to the state’s progress. The Chief Minister also praised Mahatab for his contributions to Odisha’s cultural and administrative landscape, including the establishment of the Odisha State Museum, State Lalit Kala Akademi, and the Radio Station in Cuttack. Additionally, Mahatab’s contributions to institutions like the High Court, Vidyadharpur Rice Research Centre, and the Odisha Public Service Commission were also highlighted.

Cuttack Lok Sabha MP Bhartruhari Mahatab noted Dr. Mahatab’s deep ambitions for Odisha’s development and his lasting legacy in the state.

The event concluded with Gadkari and Majhi inaugurating a photo exhibition showcasing the life and contributions of Dr. Harekrushna Mahatab. This tribute emphasized not only Mahatab’s role in the political and developmental spheres but also his enduring influence on Odisha’s identity and progress.