Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday paid tributes to legendary Odisha leader and former Chief Minister Biju Patnaik on his birth anniversary, remembering his contributions to the development and progress of the state. In a message posted on the social media platform X, the Prime Minister recalled Patnaik’s commitment to public service and his deep passion for advancing Odisha’s growth.
“On his birth anniversary today, I pay tributes to Shri Biju Patnaik Ji and remember his passion towards furthering the progress of Odisha,” Modi wrote.
Biju Patnaik, a towering political figure in Odisha, served as the state’s Chief Minister twice and played a significant role in shaping its political and developmental trajectory. Known for his fearless personality and administrative vision, Patnaik was also widely respected for his role in India’s freedom struggle and for his daring aviation exploits.
His legacy continues to influence the state’s politics and public life. Several major institutions and public programmes in Odisha have been named after him, and his birth anniversary is observed across the state with tributes from political leaders and citizens.
Patnaik was also the father of former Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, who leads the regional party Biju Janata Dal, founded in his father’s honour in 1997. Over the decades, Biju Patnaik has remained an enduring symbol of regional pride and development-focused politics in the state.