CM Majhi Launches Harichandan’s New Books

Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi unveiled two new books authored by veteran politician and former Governor Biswabhusan Harichandan at a ceremony in Bhubaneswar. The event celebrated Odisha’s political and cultural legacy and recognised Harichandan’s long public life. Dignitaries, scholars and political leaders attended the function, marking it as a significant literary and political occasion.

Tribute to a Veteran Statesman

Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister described the launch as a proud moment for the state. He emphasised that the author’s life and values were as important as the books themselves. Harichandan has played a pivotal role in Odisha politics. He served as the founding president of the Bharatiya Janata Party’s Odisha unit and held the post four times.

He was elected as a Member of the Legislative Assembly five times between 1977 and 2009 and served as a cabinet minister on four occasions. Before entering active politics, he practised law at the Odisha High Court from 1972. During the Emergency (1975–77), he led pro-democracy movements and faced imprisonment, reflecting his commitment to constitutional values.

Focus on Bakshi Jagabandhu and Paika Rebellion

One of the released books, “Bakshi Jagabandhu: The Great Commander”, revisits the legacy of Bakshi Jagabandhu, leader of the 1817 Paika Rebellion in Khordha. The Chief Minister noted that the uprising predated the 1857 Sepoy Mutiny by four decades and deserved wider national recognition as an early war of independence. He stated that the book highlights lesser-known aspects of the revolt and strengthens the case for its historical importance.

Essays on History, Democracy and Identity

The Odia book “E Mati Katha Kahe” contains 30 essays on diverse themes including Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, Atal Bihari Vajpayee, democracy, media, Odia identity, world peace and Lord Jagannath’s Nabakalebara festival. The Chief Minister expressed hope that the work would be translated into English to reach a wider audience. He also acknowledged Harichandan’s other literary contributions, including plays, essays, short stories and his autobiography “Sangram Sarinahi”, translated into multiple languages.

Important Facts for Exams

• The Paika Rebellion occurred in 1817 in Khordha, Odisha.
• The Emergency in India lasted from 1975 to 1977.
• Nabakalebara is a periodic ritual associated with Lord Jagannath in Puri.
• State Governors are appointed by the President of India under Article 155 of the Constitution.

Legacy of Public Service and Literature

The Chief Minister concluded by praising Harichandan’s contribution to politics, governance and literature. He stated that the author’s life exemplifies patriotism and principled public service. The event reflected broad appreciation for Harichandan’s role in shaping Odisha’s political discourse and preserving its historical memory through writing.