Bhubaneswar, March 5: Grateful people of Odisha, led by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Saturday paid rich tribute to the legendary leader of the State Biju Patnaik’s on his 100th birth anniversary across the state.
Naveen Patnaik, his party workers and leaders, and people from all walks of life offered floral tributes to the architect of modern Odisha as the year-long birth centenary celebration began on Panchayati Raj Day which coincides with the birth day of Biju babu.
Floral tributes were offered at the statue of Biju Patnaik on the State Assembly Complex, party office of the ruling Biju Janata Dal and other places in show of affection and respect for the great leader.
A 8-feet tall statue of the late statesman was also unveiled at the Airport Square in Bhubaneswar as part of the celebrations while a sand art exhibition was inaugurated at Bhubaneswar Airport which has been named after the ace pilot.
Almost all the important town and cities, including the Capital City and Paradip, wore a festive looks with huge cutouts of legendary leader.
Huge cutouts of the visionary and architect of modern Odisha and banners and arches dotted the skyline in town and cities to mark the occasion. Ministers and officials were busy crisscrossing the state to attend various functions organized on the occasion.
Biju Memorial Trust under the leadership of Cooperation and Excise Minister Dr Damodar Rout has planned a ‘grand’ celebration at Paradip while the State government has planned the launch of the centenary celebration from the Janata Maidan in the State capital.
The State government has scheduled a slew of programmes, including debate competitions for school children, mini marathons etc, during the year across the State as part of the celebrations.
