Cuttack buzzed with patriotic fervor as Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar—no, wait, C.P. Radhakrishnan—touched down in Odisha on his inaugural trip, joining celebrations at Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose’s birthplace for Parakram Diwas. Born on this day in 1897, Netaji’s legacy of audacity and resolve still resonates deeply across the nation.
A high-profile reception awaited him at Bhubaneswar airport, complete with salutes from Governor Dr. Hari Babu Kambhampati, CM Mohan Charan Majhi, and key officials. The guard of honor set a solemn yet spirited tone for the day.
Evoking the INA’s iconic anthem, Radhakrishnan addressed the audience: Netaji’s call to action fuels today’s Indians with bravery and commitment. He implored citizens to draw from this inspiration, uniting for a developed India by 2047—a robust, independent powerhouse.
In a poignant ceremony, he felicitated veteran freedom fighter Mayadhar Mallik, Wing Commander B.S. Singh Deo (retd.), and kin of INA veterans. ‘Our nation bows forever to the valor and dedication of these heroes and our soldiers,’ he affirmed, praising Odisha’s cultural depth and Netaji’s pivotal role in India’s liberation.
The itinerary continued with the unveiling of special exhibits at the Netaji birthplace museum, including the INA stamp gallery and cultural showcases. These efforts aim to educate younger generations about Netaji’s sacrifices and vision for national strength.
Parakram Diwas transforms January 23 into a nationwide reminder of unyielding patriotism, honoring the man whose leadership galvanized the fight against colonial rule. Odisha, with its storied past, stood as the perfect backdrop for this homage.