The Odisha government has launched a year-long celebration to honour the 125th birth anniversary of Dr Harekrushna Mahatab. Mahatab, a prominent figure in Odisha’s history, played important role in shaping modern Odisha. The BJP sees this celebration as a means to boost Odia pride, especially after gaining political power in the state.
Who Was Harekrushna Mahatab?
Harekrushna Mahatab was born on November 21, 1899, in Agarapada, Odisha. He was a freedom fighter, writer, and political leader. Mahatab was associated with the Utkal Sammilani, advocating for a separate Odisha province. His involvement in the Non-Cooperation Movement marked the beginning of his active participation in the freedom struggle.
Political Journey
Mahatab held several key positions throughout his political career. He served as the last Prime Minister of Odisha from 1946 to 1950 and as Chief Minister from 1956 to 1961. He was instrumental in integrating 26 princely states into Odisha and relocating the state capital from Cuttack to Bhubaneswar. His tenure also saw the initiation of important infrastructure projects like the Hirakud Dam.
Break with Congress and Later Life
In 1966, Mahatab left the Indian National Congress due to policy disagreements with Indira Gandhi. He founded the Orissa Jana Congress and continued to be active in politics until his retirement in 1977. He was imprisoned during the Emergency in 1976 for opposing Indira Gandhi’s regime. Mahatab passed away on January 2, 1987, but his legacy continues through the newspaper he founded, Prajatantra.
BJP’s Strategy for Mahatab’s Legacy
The BJP is leveraging Mahatab’s legacy to strengthen its position in Odisha. After the party’s recent electoral success, it has sought to claim Mahatab as a figure of Odia pride. Celebrations include plans for a memorial museum, a life-size statue at his birthplace, and the establishment of a Mahatab Centre in universities. The BJP aims to republish Mahatab’s works and promote research on his contributions.
Impact on Odisha’s Political Landscape
Mahatab’s legacy has been overshadowed by other leaders, particularly Biju Patnaik. The BJP’s efforts to revive Mahatab’s memory could reshape the political narrative in Odisha. By associating with Mahatab, the BJP hopes to attract a broader base of support among Odias.
Future Commemorations
The government plans to organise seminars and discussions about Mahatab’s life and work. This initiative aims to educate the public about his contributions and inspire future generations. The celebrations will serve as a platform to rekindle interest in Odisha’s history and its leaders.
Questions for UPSC:
- Critically examine the role of Harekrushna Mahatab in shaping modern Odisha.
- Discuss the impact of the Non-Cooperation Movement on India’s freedom struggle and its leaders.
- Explain the significance of memorials in preserving political legacies in India.
- With suitable examples, discuss the evolution of political parties in Odisha post-independence.
Answer Hints:
1. Critically examine the role of Harekrushna Mahatab in shaping modern Odisha.
Harekrushna Mahatab played a very important role in modernizing Odisha through his leadership and vision. As the last Prime Minister and later Chief Minister, he was instrumental in integrating 26 princely states into Odisha and relocating the capital from Cuttack to Bhubaneswar, encouraging administrative efficiency. His advocacy for infrastructure development, exemplified by the Hirakud Dam, contributed to the state’s economic growth. Mahatab’s involvement in the Utkal Sammilani and the Non-Cooperation Movement also brought into light his commitment to regional identity and the freedom struggle, making him a key architect of modern Odisha’s political and cultural landscape.
2. Discuss the impact of the Non-Cooperation Movement on India’s freedom struggle and its leaders.
The Non-Cooperation Movement (1920-1922), led by Mahatma Gandhi, marked an important turning point in India’s freedom struggle. It mobilized masses across the country, encouraging a sense of unity and national identity against British rule. Leaders like Harekrushna Mahatab emerged, gaining prominence through active participation. The movement encouraged non-violent resistance and civil disobedience, inspiring future movements. Although it ended prematurely, its impact on political consciousness was deep, galvanizing various sections of society and leading to increased involvement of Indian leaders in the independence struggle, ultimately laying the groundwork for subsequent mass movements against colonialism.
3. Explain the significance of memorials in preserving political legacies in India.
Memorials play important role in preserving political legacies in India by commemorating the contributions of influential leaders and events. They serve as physical reminders of historical narratives, encouraging national pride and collective memory. Memorials like statues and museums facilitate public engagement with a leader’s life and ideals, educating future generations about their significance. For instance, the establishment of a memorial for Harekrushna Mahatab aims to revive interest in his contributions to Odisha’s development. Such initiatives also help shape contemporary political discourse, allowing parties to align themselves with revered figures, thereby influencing public sentiment and electoral strategies.
4. With suitable examples, discuss the evolution of political parties in Odisha post-independence.
Post-independence, Odisha’s political landscape has evolved , marked by the emergence of several parties. Initially dominated by the Indian National Congress, which led the state for over four decades, the political scene shifted with the formation of the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) in 1997 under Naveen Patnaik. The BJD capitalized on regional identity and development issues, leading to a stronghold in Odisha politics. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) emerged later, seeking to consolidate support by invoking regional pride, as seen in their recent embrace of Harekrushna Mahatab’s legacy. This evolution reflects changing public sentiments and the increasing importance of regionalism in Indian politics.
