Bhubaneswar- Naveen Patnaik, the stalwart of Odisha politics and Biju Janata Dal (BJD) supremo, has been discharged from Mumbai’s Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital following a successful cervical arthroplasty surgery. The 77-year-old leader, who served as Chief Minister of Odisha for over two decades and now holds the position of Leader of Opposition, had been admitted for the scheduled procedure after being diagnosed with cervical arthritis.
The surgery, performed under the supervision of renowned cardiac surgeon Dr. Ramakant Panda and a team of specialists, was declared successful. According to his political secretary Santrupt Mishra, Patnaik responded well to the treatment and will remain in Mumbai for a few more days under medical observation before receiving clearance to return home.
Patnaik had flown to Mumbai on June 20, ahead of the operation scheduled for June 22. His departure from Bhubaneswar was marked by emotional scenes, as senior BJD leaders, party workers, and supporters gathered at Biju Patnaik International Airport to see him off, chanting prayers and offering heartfelt wishes for a speedy recovery.
The news of his successful surgery has brought immense relief to his countless supporters and admirers across Odisha. Though no formal statement has been made by the doctors or Patnaik himself since his discharge, his earlier message on social media continues to resonate:
“Jai Jagannath. As advised by the medical experts, I would be undergoing a procedure for cervical arthritis on the 22nd of this month at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital in Mumbai. My personal doctor Dr. Ramakant Panda is coordinating this in Mumbai. With blessings of Lord Jagannatha and good wishes of my brothers and sisters of Odisha, looking forward to returning soon to continue to serve all of you.”
The post carried not just the words of a seasoned politician, but the quiet strength of a leader who has, for decades, placed the people of Odisha above all else.
As he rests and recovers in Mumbai, Odisha waits with hope—hope for the swift return of a leader whose calm resolve and enduring spirit continue to inspire generations.