Pandit Gopabandhu’s Pan-India Thoughts Hold Significance Today, Says President Murmu In Bhubaneswar

Bhubaneswar: President Droupadi Murmu on Saturday said Utkalamani Pandit Gopabandhu Das visualised holistic development of students through education.

Speaking at a function organised on the occasion of 96th Death Anniversary of Utkalmani Gopabandhu Das in Bhubaneswar, the President said it does not matter how long a person lives. Rather, what is important is the kind of life he or she lives. That is, the reputation of a person is evaluated based only on his/her contribution to society and country.

“It is amazing to think about the number of good deeds of Pandit Gopabandhu Das in his short life. His contribution to the fields of social service, literature, education, and journalism is unforgettable,” she said.

“Pandit Gopabandhu Das knew very well that no society or nation can progress without proper education. That is why he established Muktakash School, also known as Van Vidyalaya, at Satyabadi in Puri district. His approach of introducing students to nature right from the beginning is very important,” the President said.

Stating that Pandit Gopabandhu emphasised on holistic development of students through Van Vidyalaya, the President said in his view, education does not mean only book knowledge, but physical, mental, intellectual and spiritual development of students.

“Pandit Gopabandhu started publication of the Samaj newspaper in 1919 to spread the message of freedom in Odisha. He also raised the problems of the people through this newspaper. His editorials in the Samaj have enriched Odia literature,” she said.

“Pandit Gopabandhu’s writings give the message of patriotism and welfare of the world. He was dedicated to Odia pride as well as Indian nationalism. He wrote ‘Wherever I am in India, I should believe that I am at home’. We should take inspiration from this pan-India thinking of Gopabandhu ji,” the President said.