[Watch] ‘Biju Babu’: Only Indian Whose Mortal Remains Were Wrapped In The Flags Of Three Countries

Bhubaneswar: Former Odisha Chief Minister Biju Patnaik, who died on April 17, 1997, is the only Indian whose mortal remains were wrapped in the national flags of three countries — India, Russia and Indonesia.

His mortal remains were consigned to flames at Swargadwar in Puri. After his death, Indonesia declared seven days’ state mourning while Russia observed state mourning for a day as a mark of respect for the departed leader.

‘Biju Babu’ is revered in both Indonesia and Russia. For his contribution to Indonesia’s independence, Sukarno conferred the title “Bhumi Putra” on him in 1950.

He also helped the Soviet Army in its fight against Hitler during World War II and was honored by the Russians.