15th Edition of Odisha Bhaskar’s Maa Tujhe Salaam Shines in Glow of Patriotic Fervor

Bhubaneswar: It was a solemn yet festive occasion. The jam-packed Chanakya auditorium of Swosti Premium Hotel was swaying to the tunes of patriotic tunes and slogans. Odisha Bhaskar family was celebrating the fifteenth edition of the annual ‘Maa Tujhe Salaam’ on Independence Day to remember, honour and patronize the ultimate sacrifice of martyrs and their families.

This year, the Governor of Odisha, Raghubar Das graced this grand patriotic celebration of the Odisha Bhaskar family as the chief guest. In his address to the audience, the governor said Independence Day is the occasion to remember the sacrifices of our freedom fighters for which we are living in an independent nation. He termed the Indian freedom struggle as a never-before-written episode of history. He also added that the country and its citizens can never forget the martyrs, who sacrificed their lives to safeguard the borders and sovereignty of our motherland.

These martyrs have left behind eternal marks of patriotism and nationalism, which will continue to enthuse the generations to come, the governor said. “The light of martyrdom of these great sons of the soil is still burning and their dedication to serve the motherland will motivate the present youths,” he said. He called upon the youngsters to dedicate themselves for the continuation of this patriotic fervor as it is the need of the hour.

At this juncture, Governor Das announced payment of Rs 5 lakh each for the families of the martyrs from the Governor’s discretionary fund.

Attending the function as a guest, IG of BSF Charudhwaj Agarwal said the nation can never forget the sacrifices of the martyrs. He lauded the indescribable pains taken by the forces to show up exemplary bravery, which according to him will surely inspire all.

In his address, the DIG of Coast Guard SR Das said, on this pious occasion of Independence Day, everyone should get drowned in patriotism and pledge to protect our motherland.

The DIG of CRPF Group Centre, Bhubaneswar, BB Sethi called upon the youths to become patriotic and join the armed forces in large numbers to strengthen the country’s security.

The Commanding Officer, 120 INF Battalion, Bhubaneswar, Col Rohit Kumar Singh in his speech said it is the day to remember the soldiers who have etched immortal stories of valour for the protection of the motherland. It is the time to remember our great freedom fighters as well as the jawans engaged in the security of the nation, he said.

The Commanding Officer, 9 Airmen Selection Centre of the Indian Air Force, Wing Commander Rajalaxmi Prithviraj said that this occasion has provided a unique opportunity to remember the individuals who have sacrificed for the nation. We are able to live in peace only because the jawans are enduring all pains to protect our nation, she said. She applauded the patriotic efforts of Odisha Bhaskar family and advised the families of martyr soldiers to face every situation with patience.

Director, NCC Odisha, Col Sagar Kumar Mohanty in his speech termed the Odisha Bhaskar family’s endeavor to honour families of martyr soldiers as exceptional. He thanked the Odisha Bhaskar family for it.

At the onset of the function, the CEO and editor of Odisha Bhaskar, Koustuv Das welcomed the guests on the dais and elaborated how Odisha Bhaskar has continued to honor the families of martyrs since last 15 years through this exemplary program. He thanked all involved in making ‘Maa Tujhe Salaam’ a success and also hoped for their cooperation for the same in future.

Tilakraj Mohanty, son of Odisha Bhaskar MD Madhu Mohanty, who also happens to be the founder of Odisha Bhaskar Digital, in his address, informed that as a mark of tribute to the martyrs, Odisha Bhaskar has taken up the responsibility of education of their progenies. He also expressed his gratitude towards all who have extended their support to the program.

In the end, the chief editor of Odisha Bhaskar, Pradosh Patnaik gave the vote of thanks with the promise that ‘Maa Tujhe Salaam’ will continue for years to come.

During this occasion, the family members of the five martyrs from Odisha- Prakash Chandra Siala, Pratap Ranjan Parida, Saroj Kumar Das, Sameer Kumar Jal, Bhagiratha Mohanty were honoured. The videos of poignant stories of these martyrs shown on screen brought tears to the eyes of the audience.

Before attending the function, Governor Das hoisted the National Flag and presented floral tribute at the Amar Jawan Memorial. The officers of the armed forces and police present also offered wreathes at the Amar Jawan Memorial.

This exemplary patriotic program was also attended by several dignitaries of the State including the Managing Director of Odisha Bhaskar, Madhu Mohanty.