Bhubaneswar: Tributes poured in on Saturday as Odisha remembered former Odisha Chief Minister Janaki Ballav Patnaik on his 99th birth anniversary.
“We remember Janaki Ballabh Patnaik, former CM of Odisha, a visionary leader known for strengthening democracy, promoting social justice, and steering the state towards progressive governance with integrity and conviction,” the Congress posted on X.
A year-long celebration, commencing January 3, to commemorate his legacy is being organised under the banner of J B Patnaik Satvarshiki Coordination Committee (Centenary Coordination Committee). Events include memorial gatherings, cultural programs, and reflections on his visionary leadership.
The committee has sought land in Bhubaneswar to set up a memorial in his name.
Deputy Chief Minister K V Singh Deo also took to X to pay homage to JB, the first chief minister of Odisha to win three terms. “On this solemn day, we pay our deepest homage to Late Janaki Ballabh Pattnaik, the revered former Chief Minister of Odisha and former Governor of Assam. His life was a testament to visionary leadership, unwavering dedication, and an enduring commitment to the progress of our people. His legacy continues to inspire generations, reminding us that true service lies in uplifting society with wisdom, humility, and courage
. May his memory forever illuminate the path of Odisha and the nation,” he wrote.
A scholar-journalist turned politician, he was a staunch Indira Gandhi loyalist, promoted Odia as an official language, and received awards like the Sahitya Akademi for translations.
Former CM and BJD president Naveen Patnaik also paid tributes to JB, remembering his contribution to Odisha’s progress. “I offer my tributes on the birth anniversary of former Chief Minister and eminent politician Janaki Ballabh Pattnaik. His contributions to advancing Odisha on the path of development as well as to the welfare of the people will always be remembered,” Naveen posted on X.
JB served as the chief minister — two consecutive terms from 1980 to 1989, and a third from 1995 to 1999. He opened schools in every panchayat to spread education. As Union minister for tourism, civil aviation and labour, he pushed for Odisha’s progress in these sectors. He was appointed as the Governor of Assam in 2009.
“Tribute on the birth anniversary of Late Janaki Ballabh Patnaik, former Chief Minister of Odisha and Governor of Assam,” Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan posted on X.
Former Congress president Niranjan Patnaik described JB as an erudite scholar, litterateur, and journalist. “He was truly one of the architects of modern Odisha. His vision, administrative acumen, and deep commitment to democratic values shaped the state during a crucial period of its history. Beyond politics, his intellectual legacy and contribution to literature and public life remain inspiring,” he wrote.
The Congress stalwart did his masters in political science from Banaras Hindu University and was also a respected Sanskrit scholar. He died in 2015.