‘The Tall Man Biju Patnaik’ Book unveiled in Bhubaneswar

ONI Bureau: The pictorial biography of former Odisha Chief Minister Biju Patnaik titled ‘The Tall Man Biju Patnaik’ was unveiled in presence of CM Naveen Patnaik at the Utkal Mandap in Bhubaneswar today.

Former President Pranab Mukherjee, former Prime Minister HD Deve Gowda, senior BJP leader and former Deputy Prime Minister LK Advani and CPI(M) Leader Sitaram Yechury unveiled Biju babu’s pictorial biography as per the schedule.

Other dignitaries included veteran Congress leader Narasingha Mishra, BJP leaders Bijoy Mohapatra, former Ministers Prafulla Ghadei and Biswabhushan Harichandan and Media Baron Soumya Ranjan Patnaik.

People from different walks of life and leaders cutting across party lines and other eminent personalities were also attended the function.

Only suspended MP Baijayant ‘Jay’ Panda, who was not invited to the event, skipped it.

Earlier today, the dignitaries were welcomed by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik at the Biju Patnaik International Airport in the Capital city and had lunch with the CM at his residence.

 The book has been written by eminet writer Sundar Ganesan and published by the Biju Patnaik Birth Centenary Committee.

All the leaders hailed late Biju Patnaik and remembered his personality, achievements and efforts in nation building. Eminent Journalist Prabhu Chawla reviewed the book and said there is no ambiguity on Biju Babu as one of the greatest leaders Odisha has ever produced.

CPI(M) Leader Sitaram Yechury said, “Biju Babu was all along for ‘secular forces’. If we think for it today again, it would be a great tribute to him”, wooing Naveen for a “secular” third front.

HD Devegowda sought ‘Bharat Ratna’ for Biju Patnaik saying he fully deserves it.

CM Naveen Patnaik too hailed Biju Babu and thanked all leaders who attended the event. He also thanked the Biju Patnaik Birth Centenary Committee as well as all people.