Remembering Utkalmani Gopabandhu Das on his 146th Birth Anniversary

Remembering Utkalmani Gopabandhu Das on his 146th Birth Anniversary

Today Odisha is commemorating the 146th Birth Anniversary of Utkalmani Pandit Gopabandhu Das. Gopabandhu Jayanti is an occasion to remember Gopabandhu Das’ contributions to the Indian freedom struggle and Odia nationalism. The inspiring legacy of his spirit of selfless social service has left an indelible mark in Odia society.

Born in a noble Brahmin family in Suando village in Puri district on 9th October, 1877, Gopabandhu was a social worker, reformer, political activist, journalist, poet and essayist. He played an instrumental role in the formation of Odisha state on linguistic basis. He was also the first president of the Congress party in Odisha.

His interest in writing goes back to his student years in Ravenshaw College of Cuttack, where he wrote for literary magazines such as Indradhanu and Bijuli. Gopabandhu stood for women’s education, believing that women are the agents of social change. He was known for his selfless service to the poor and downtrodden people of Odisha. 

When his newborn son died, he was providing relief to flood victims. When asked why he chose helping others over staying by his own son, he said, “There are so many to look after my son. What more can I do? But there are so many people crying for help in the affected areas and it is my duty to go there. Lord Jagannath is here to take care of the boy.”

Gopabandhu Das started the Satyabadi Bana Bidyalaya at Sakhigopal with the aim of inculcating patriotism in the hearts of students. Based on the gurukul system, the Bidyalaya enrolled students from all castes, at a time when caste-based oppression was rampant. As a writer, his works such as Kara Kabita, Chilika, Dharmapada, and Bandi Ra Atma Katha are testimony to his literary abilities.

Gopabandhu pioneered Odisha’s press freedom. Being an eminent figure in Odisha’s journalism, he launched the monthly magazine Satyabadi in 1914 and founded the weekly newspaper “the Samaja” in 1919. His dedication towards social upliftment, literature and journalism make him the Gem of Odisha’s freedom struggle.