The programme, titled“Living the Legacy of Shaheed Baji Rout,” featured a range of competitions and cultural activities for students, including essay writing, debate, drama, painting, dance and song.
The main centenary programme on September 30 began with a trek on the university campus led by CUO Vice-Chancellor Prof. (Dr.) Ajit Kumar Shasany. This was followed by a Kalasa Jatra, carrying soil from Nilakanthapur in Dhenkanal, the native village of Shaheed Baji Rout.
A seminar and cultural programme were subsequently organised, where university students presented patriotic performances and paid tribute to the young martyr and his contribution to India’s freedom struggle.
Among the distinguished guests were Dr. Krushna Chandra Aich, Chairman of the Saheed Baji Rout Memorial Foundation, Dhenkanal; Kulamani Rout, nephew of Shaheed Baji Rout; Padmashri Dr. Jitendra Haripal, eminent folk singer from Sambalpur; and Padmashri Patayat Sahu, agriculturist and medicinal plant expert from Nandol in Kalahandi district. Representatives from prominent institutions and organisations in Koraput also attended the event.
The programme was organised under the aegis of theMinistry of Education, Government of India, to commemorate the legacy and sacrifice of Shaheed Baji Rout and inspire younger generations through his life and ideals.
