BHUBANESWAR: President Droupadi Murmu unveiled the statue of Utkalmani Pandit Gopabandhu Das at the Lajpat Bhavan premises in New Delhi on Monday. This marks the first time that a statue of an eminent Odia personality has been installed in the national capital.
On the occasion, the President also paid floral tributes to the statue of Punjab Kesari Lala Lajpat Rai, founder of the Lok Sevak Mandal.
The bronze-and-copper statue, weighing approximately 52 kilograms, was sculpted by renowned sculptor Rabi Narayan Rath. The artist said that he created the statue under the guidance of Lok Sevak Mandal President Rajkumar.
Speaking at the event, Union minister Jual Oram described the occasion as a historic and proud moment, symbolising Odisha’s rich heritage, commitment to national service, and dedication to public welfare.
Former Union minister Dharmendra Pradhan said great leaders like Utkalmani Gopabandhu Das and Lala Lajpat Rai continue to inspire the nation through their ideals of selfless service, sacrifice, education, and patriotism.
Bhubaneswar MP Aparajita Sarangi, BJP national vice-president Baijayant Panda, President of the Lok Sevak Mandal Rajkumar, MPs cutting across party lines and Odia disapora were present.