Balasore, January 11 (Localwire): “Fairs and festivals are inseparable parts of a society as they act as a medium to showcase traditions and culture. Odisha has a glorious past and Odia people have demonstrated their valor during the pre-independence struggle, and have left an indelible mark in the history of India as Paika Rebellion,” Andhra Pradesh governor Biswabhusan Harichandan said here.
Speaking at the 22nd Golden Beach festival in Chandipur on Friday, he further said that the Paika Rebellion is registered as the first rebellion against the might of British force, much before the Sepoy mutiny in 1857.
“It is a matter of pride for this pious soil (Odisha) that the agitation Paika Rebellion has obtained the recognition of the Central government as the first armed rebellion against the British.
The country is observing 200 years of the rebellion, remembering the courage and dedication of Odia soldiers,” Harichandan said.
Besides remembering the sacrifices made by freedom fighters in the undivided Balasore, including Inchudi and Iram, the governor paid obeisance to the doyen of Odia language Fakir Mohanty Senapati recounting his creations through literature.
Several other speakers including Bhadrak MP Manjulata Mandal, Bhograi MLA Aswani Patra, and former MLA and festival committee chairman JP Dash also spoke on the occasion.
Earlier in the day, the governor was given a warm reception by various organizations under the aegis of Citizen Felicitation Forum in the Town Hall.
LocalWire
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