Biju Patnaik was an institution: Odisha Chief Minister

Bhubaneswar, Mar 5: Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Saturday paid tribute to late Biju Patnaik on his birth centenary, describing him as a great institution and symbol of progress.

“Biju Babu is an idea in continuity — an idea of realising the dream in progress and prosperity, an idea of Odia self-esteem, selfless service and empowerment. He is an idea that every Odia wants to follow,” he said, addressing a large gathering of party members here.

Even though Biju Babu figured among the top leaders of the country, he stood with the poor people and successfully carried out development at the village level, said Naveen Patnaik, who is the son of the late leader.

He said the birth centenary of the legendary leader would be celebrated year long nationally and internationally.

The dream of the legendary leader to create a developed and resurgent Odisha could only be fulfilled if the youths worked with courage, conviction and dedication, Naveen Patnaik said.

“Biju Babu was the Baraputra of Mother India. He went beyond the limits of regional and national boundaries to international height,” said Patnaik.

Earlier on Saturday, the chief minister inaugurated a sand sculpture created by renowned sand artist Sudarsan Patnaik on the occasion of Biju Patnaik birth centenary at new domestic terminal.

Besides, a 18-feet statue of Biju Patnaik was unveiled at the city airport. A mini marathon was organised in city on Saturday morning.

Biju Patnaik was born on March 5, 1916, and died on April 17, 1997. He was chief minister of Odisha for two terms.  (IANS)