Odisha celebrated the birth anniversaries of two legendary freedom fighters, Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose and Veer Surendra Sai, on Thursday with several events across the state.

The occasion marked Parakram Diwas, honoring the 128th birth anniversary of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, who was born in Cuttack on January 23, 1897. In parallel, the state also observed the birth anniversary of Veer Surendra Sai, born in Khinda, Sambalpur district, on January 23, 1809.

To pay tribute to the leaders’ contributions to India’s freedom struggle, various cultural programs, seminars, and ceremonies were held. In Cuttack, the birthplace of Netaji, citizens, students, and historians gathered to honor his legacy, while in Sambalpur, events were organized to remember Veer Surendra Sai’s relentless fight against British colonial rule.

A state official at a ceremony in Bhubaneswar remarked, “Netaji and Veer Surendra Sai symbolize courage, patriotism, and selfless service. Their legacies continue to inspire us.”

Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose is widely revered for his leadership of the Indian National Army, and Veer Surendra Sai is remembered for his courageous resistance to British rule in western Odisha.

The celebrations across the state focused on the importance of preserving the ideals and values of these national heroes, ensuring that their contributions to India’s independence remain an inspiration for future generations.