Bhadrak: Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Saturday paid rich tribute to Odisha’s last independent Hindu ruler, Raja Mukunda Deb, at a large gathering in Gohiratikri in Dhamnagar area of Bhadrak district.
Noting that Mukunda Deb was killed at Gohiratikiri 457 years ago following a conspiracy, Dharmendra said the legendary ruler expanded his kingdom from the Ganga to the Godavari and fought tirelessly to protect Odia identity and sovereignty. Gohiratikiri should stand as a symbol of valour and Odia pride in Indian history, he said.
After a bike rally to the historic Gohiratikiri Peeth, he also reviewed the Mukunda Deb Memorial Fo
undation project.
Participating in multiple programmes during his visit to Dhamnagar, the Union Minister laid the foundation stones for 21 projects worth Rs 101 crore.
Later, Dharmendra joined the Ekta Padayatra organised to mark the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. Thousands of people from diverse backgrounds walked from Dobal Bus Stand to Kalibazar. Addressing a public meeting at Dobal Kali Padia, Pradhan assured that the government would take steps for the overall development of Gohiratikhiri, which symbolises the valour of Utkal’s sons.
The projects for which foundation was laid are in different sectors, including education, tourism, culture, research & art, water resources, housing & construction, rural development, and drainage.
The event witnessed participation from Odisha Higher Education Minister Suryabanshi Suraj, Bhadrak MP Abhimanyu Sethi, Bhadrak MLA Sitanshu Sekhar Mohapatra, Baleswar MLA Manas Dutta, former Brahmagiri MLA Lalitendu Bidyadhar Mohapatra, and Bhadrak Collector Dilip Kumar Rautra.