Sambalpur: Mortal remains of veteran doctor-turned-politician Raseswari Panigrahi were consigned to flames in Odisha’s Sambalpur in the presence of hundreds of mourners who gathered at the crematorium to pay homage to the departed leader.
A large number of people from different walks of life gathered to bid a final farewell to Panigrahi, a renowned doctor, social worker and former Sambalpur MLA.
Her final journey began from her residence at Shantinagar and moved towards Rajghat crematorium, where her last rites were performed amid an atmosphere of deep sorrow. Her two sons who came from Dubai performed her final rites.
Panigrahi, who breathed her last on Monday night at the age of 79, was remembered not only for her medical service but also for her contributions as a legislator from 2014 to 2019. Her passing marks the end of a life dedicated to public service and community welfare. She had made contributions to Gangadhar Meher University, started a charity to support the education of meritorious under-privileged children, donated land to a children’s hospital and donated her eyes after her death.
The funeral procession witnessed a massive turnout, with people from all walks of life thronging her residence and the crematorium to pay their respects. The sight of thousands with flowers and garlands in hand joining the funeral procession, reflected the immense love and respect she commanded in Sambalpur and beyond.
Prominent personalities, including Odisha Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, and Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan mourned her passing, acknowledging her invaluable contributions to society and politics.
