By Our Correspondent
NEW DELHI/BHUBANESWAR: Glowing Tribute was paid to the youngest Martyr of India’s freedom struggle Baji Rout in National Capital recently. A memorial meeting in honour of late youth icon was organised by English Monthly Utkal Bharatee in association with Sree Neelachal Seva Sangha at the premises of Lord Jagannath Temple in Hauz Khas. Recounting the thrilling supreme sacrifice of the 12 years old Odia boy by receiving bullets from British Forces from point blank range, the distinguished dignitaries offered rich homage to Baji’s valiant memory.
Describing Baji Rout as epitome of Patriotism, Bravery and dedication, the Guest speakers appealed to the younger generation to emulate the idealism of his life and philosophy. The Mega Event witnessed the congregation of noted intellectuals, Renowned Literateurs, University students, Faculty Members and leading lights of non Resident Odias. Presiding over the Function, the Chief Organiser, Utkal Bharatee’s Editor and Programme’s Convenor Dr Nirmal Patnaik gave a clarion call to the conscious citizens to raise their voices for building up a befitting memorial of Baji Rout at National Level.
Former Chief Fire Officer of New Delhi Dr Dharampal Bhardwaj and ACP of Delhi Police Dinesh Kumar were conferred Veer Baji Rout Samman for the year 2023 in recognition of their exemplary services to the Society. In their acceptance speeches both Dr Bhardwaj and Shri Kumar recalled their harrowing experiences of upholding their professional responsibilities inspite of dangerously risking their personal lives on several occasions. They advised the audiences to contribute as per their capabilities for Nation Building on daily basis.
Describing Baji Rout as the National Hero, Joint Director of NCERT Prof. Amarendra Prasad Behera, wanted youths of the Nation to imbibe inspiration from his Cutter Nationalism and utter attachment towards motherland. President of All Delhi Computer Traders Association Mahinder Aggarwal observed that constructive contribution for the betterment of society is the best way to pay befitting tribute to Baji Rout.
Others who spoke in favour of the relevance of following Baji Rout’s principles even today include Mrs Queen of Asia Pacific Universe Suranjita Rana, Professor of IIM, Lucknow Satya Bhushan Dash and Founder of Vijayani Foundation Reeta Patra. Treasurer of Kalinga Shikshya Samaj Gadadhar Pradhan suggested that a Road or Building in New Delhi to be named after Martyr Baji Rout. Archana Parida and Dr Dimple Goyal paid tributes to the young Martyr through reciting poems.
The Guests launched the Souvenir of Ped Panchayat designed by eminent environmentalist Prabodh Chandel. The memorial ceremony was skilfully conducted by the Art Editor of Utkal Bharatee Alpana Pattnaik. The programme commenced with the recital of Gayatri Mantra by 7 years old Mimamsa Pattnaik. All the arrangements were meticulously managed by Dr Nirmal Pattnaik with the active co – operation of Uttam Kumar Deo and Madhusmita Pattnaik.
Prominent Personalities present during the meeting include Vinayak Das, Debraj Mohanty, Sanjib Mohanty, Sanjay Agrawal, Dr Bishnu Satapathy, Dr Pradyumna Sethi, Dr Namita Mishra, Dr Namita Swain, Dr Krishna Dutt, Dr Sarbeswar Pradhan, Dr Gatikrushna Mahanta, Dr Priyambda Patri, Dr Swagat Rout, Dr Basant Das, Dr Sarojini Ekka, Dr Naresh Mallick, Dr Annie Ray, Dr Giridhari Pal, Dr Deepak Lal Kujur and Dr Punam Chandra.
