Odisha welcomed Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan with open arms on Friday as he marked his debut state visit by participating in Parakram Diwas events at Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose’s Cuttack birthplace. The occasion, coinciding with Netaji’s birth anniversary, drew crowds eager to relive the freedom struggle’s fire.
Dignitaries including Governor Dr. Hari Babu Kambhampati and Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi greeted him at Bhubaneswar airport, where a formal guard of honor was presented. The pomp reflected the event’s national importance.
Recalling the INA’s motivational march ‘Kadum Kadum Badhaye Ja,’ Radhakrishnan spoke passionately about Netaji’s inspirational power. He rallied everyone to embrace Netaji’s ideals of a mighty, self-dependent India, pledging efforts for Viksit Bharat by 2047.
Honors were bestowed upon freedom fighter Mayadhar Mallik, retired Wing Commander B.S. Singh Deo, and families of INA ex-servicemen during the main program. The Vice President reiterated India’s debt to these patriots’ courage and service, hailing Netaji’s genius and Odisha’s vibrant traditions.
Subsequent highlights included inaugurating the INA Postal Stamp Gallery, Netaji Sanskruti Bhawan, and a ministry-hosted exhibition. Packed with displays and performances, they spotlighted Netaji’s blueprint for a cohesive, empowered nation, motivating youth to explore his profound impact.
Observed as Parakram Diwas since Netaji’s 1897 birth in Cuttack, the day embodies relentless pursuit of sovereignty, with Odisha’s historical richness amplifying the celebrations.