Bhubaneswar, July 23: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Thursday paid rich tributes to Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak on the occasion of his birth anniversary, remembering him as a great freedom fighter, eminent social reformer and national hero.

In a post on social media, the Chief Minister said, "Great freedom fighter, eminent social reformer and national hero Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak's birth anniversary. His sacrifice, courage and patriotism will always remain immortal in Indian history."

ମହାନ ସ୍ୱାଧୀନତା ସଂଗ୍ରାମୀ, ବିଶିଷ୍ଟ ସମାଜ ସଂସ୍କାରକ ତଥା ରାଷ୍ଟ୍ରନାୟକ ଲୋକମାନ୍ୟ ବାଳ ଗଙ୍ଗାଧର ତିଳକଙ୍କ ଜୟନ୍ତୀରେ ଭକ୍ତିପୂତ ପ୍ରଣାମ । ତାଙ୍କର ତ୍ୟାଗ, ସାହସ ଓ ରାଷ୍ଟ୍ରପ୍ରେମ ଭାରତୀୟ ଇତିହାସରେ ସଦା ଅମର ରହିବ। pic.twitter.com/CgI7pHSpZf

— Mohan Charan Majhi (@MohanMOdisha) July 23, 2026

Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak, born on July 23, 1856, was one of the foremost leaders of India's freedom movement. Revered for his unwavering commitment to India's independence, Tilak inspired generations with his famous call, "Swaraj is my birthright, and I shall have it." His contributions to the national movement and social reform continue to inspire the nation.

Tilak believed that education, unity, and self-reliance were the foundations of a strong nation. Through his newspapers Kesari and The Mahratta, he awakened political awareness and encouraged people to stand up for their rights. He also transformed public celebrations of Ganesh Chaturthi and Shivaji Jayanti into platforms for social unity and national awakening.

On this special day, let us remember his courage, determination, and dedication to India's freedom. May his ideals continue to inspire us to work towards a stronger, more united, and progressive nation.