Bhubaneswar: The President of India, Droupadi Murmu, graced the 96th Death Anniversary of Utkalamani Pandit Gopabandhu Das today in Bhubaneswar, Odisha.
In her address, President Murmu highlighted that the true measure of a person’s life lies not in its duration but in the quality and impact of their contributions to society and the nation. She praised Pandit Gopabandhu Das for his significant achievements in social service, literature, education, and journalism, despite his short lifespan. The President paid tributes to Pandit Gopabandhu Das, acknowledging his unforgettable legacy.
President Murmu emphasized Pandit Gopabandhu Das’s foresight in recognizing the critical role of education in societal progress. He established the Muktakash School, also known as Van Vidyalaya, at Satyabadi in Puri district, to integrate students with nature from an early age. The President noted that Pandit Gopabandhu’s approach to education was holistic, aiming to develop students physically, mentally, intellectually, and spiritually, rather than focusing solely on bookish knowledge.
In 1919, Pandit Gopabandhu Das launched the publication of the Samaj newspaper, through which he disseminated the message of freedom and addressed various issues facing the people of Odisha. President Murmu highlighted that his editorials in the Samaj significantly enriched Odia literature and underscored his dedication to using journalism as a tool for social change.
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