Bargarh(Odisha): While the nation marked Valentine’s Day with celebrations of love, a different and deeper expression of devotion unfolded in Bargarh as the social organization Sankalpa Pariwar observed Martyrs’ Day along with its Sixth Foundation Day at Biju Pattnaik Town Hall. The event was conducted in a solemn and emotionally resonant atmosphere in the presence of families of martyrs from Bargarh district who laid down their lives in service of the nation.
The gathering paid heartfelt tribute to the 40 brave soldiers who were martyred in the Pulwama attack in 2019. Floral tributes were offered to their portraits, remembering their supreme sacrifice for the country. The families of martyrs from Bargarh district were also felicitated with deep respect and gratitude for their immeasurable loss and courage.
The program commenced with the President of Sankalpa Pariwar, Bikash Agrawal, and distinguished guests offering garlands to the portraits of the martyrs. The ceremony formally began with the lighting of the ceremonial lamp at the feet of Maa Samaleswari, invoking blessings and setting a reverent tone for the event. A one-minute silence was observed by all present to honor the departed heroes.
On this sacred occasion, a voluntary blood donation camp was also organized as a tribute to the martyrs. The camp was inaugurated by Bargarh MLA Ashwini Sarangi, who cut the ribbon and formally launched the initiative. A total of 51 units of blood were collected and dedicated to the memory of the brave soldiers, symbolizing a living tribute to their sacrifice.
In the first phase of the program, President Bikash Agrawal introduced the dignitaries present on the stage and conducted the proceedings. Addressing the gathering, Chief Guest Ashwini Sarangi stated that the sacrifice and valor of soldiers who laid down their lives for the motherland would remain a perpetual source of inspiration for all citizens. He also called upon the people of Bargarh to collectively pledge towards making the district free from addiction, emphasizing social responsibility alongside patriotism.
Among the distinguished guests were Shri Jan Black of CRPF, satirical poet Nitish Acharya, and President of Bargarh District Bar Association Bhishmadev Saraf. In their addresses, they highlighted the values of patriotism, sacrifice, and selfless service to society. The keynote speaker, Professor Sujit Pruseth from IIM Sambalpur, urged the youth to take an active role in nation-building and uphold the ideals for which the martyrs sacrificed their lives.
On the occasion, Sankalpa Pariwar conferred the Sankalpa Seva Samman upon Suresh Kumar Das, founder of Physical Academy Bargarh, ABCD Charitable Trust of Sambalpur district, and revolutionary poet Nitish Acharya of Sohela, in recognition of their notable contributions to society. In addition, families of eleven martyrs from Bargarh district were honored on stage as a mark of respect and collective gratitude.
The martyred soldiers from Bargarh district whose families were honored include Shaheed Gangadhar Dalei of Barahmundaa, Jahnapada, Attabira; Shaheed Kaushal Kishore Pradhan of Babajimath, Attabira; Shaheed Nilanchal Patel of Baghapali, Bheden; Shaheed Padmalochan Majhi of Cement Nagar, Bargarh; Shaheed Devendra Panda of Kudapali, Attabira; Shaheed Prakash Sahu of Katapali, Bargarh; Shaheed Ranjan Das of Khandata, Bargarh; Shaheed Tukeshwar Bhoi of Nuagad, Bhatli; Shaheed Sanjay Bag of Kudopali, Bheden; Shaheed Khagendra Mahapatra of Godbhaga, Attabira; and Shaheed Gurubaru Khadia of Amlipali, Attabira.
The entire program concluded successfully in an atmosphere filled with emotion and reflection. Nirakar Pradhan delivered the vote of thanks at the end of the event. Through this initiative, Sankalpa Pariwar not only kept alive the memory of the martyrs but also inspired the younger generation to walk the path of patriotism and social service, transforming Valentine’s Day into a day of sacrifice, gratitude, and national commitment in Bargarh.
