Centenarian Freedom Fighter Padmacharan Nayak Completes 100 Years in Kendrapada
Padmacharan Nayak, a distinguished Gandhian and revered freedom fighter from Badakula village in Kendrapada district, marked a significant milestone by completing 100 years on Thursday. Born on January 30, 1926, Nayak stands as one of the oldest surviving freedom fighters in Odisha, embodying a century of India's rich history and social change.
A Century of Witnessing History Unfold
When Nayak was born, Lord Reading served as the Viceroy of India and Stanley Baldwin held the position of Prime Minister in England. His remarkable lifespan has spanned monumental global and national events, including:
- World War II and the Indian freedom movement
- The Partition of India and the birth of Bangladesh
- Technological revolutions like television, computers, and the internet
- Historic achievements such as man landing on the moon
- The rise of social media platforms like Facebook
Politically active since his college days, Nayak pursued higher education in chemistry, earning a master's degree from the prestigious Ravenshaw College, which laid the foundation for his lifelong dedication to public service.
A Life of Service and Activism
Reflecting on his journey, Nayak shared, "I have experienced a very fulfilling 100 years, having served as a freedom fighter, an MLA, a social worker, and as the convener of the anti-liquor advocacy group Milita Odisha Nisha Nibarana Abhijan (MONNA) in the state." He expressed optimism for the future, noting that he sees great hope in the youth of today.
Nayak recounted a poignant memory from 1946, when Mahatma Gandhi made his last visit to Odisha during a journey from Calcutta to Madras. "Gandhiji traveled by train and made brief stops at several railway stations in Odisha, including Cuttack, Balasore, Bhadrak, and Berhampur, where public receptions were arranged for him. I was present at the Cuttack railway station and had the privilege of listening to the brief speech of the Father of the Nation," he recalled.
Recognition as a Role Model
Ganeswar Behera, a former minister and MLA of Kendrapada, praised Nayak's enduring legacy, stating, "It is indeed heartening to find people like Nayak in today's world. I firmly believe that he should stand out as a role model for the next generation."
Dilip Nathsharma, the convener of the Padmacharan Nayak Birth Centenary Committee, highlighted Nayak's remarkable vitality, saying, "His memory remains sharp, his wit is quick, and his health is a great blessing, inspiring all who know him."
As Padmacharan Nayak celebrates this centennial milestone, his life serves as a testament to resilience, service, and the enduring spirit of India's freedom struggle, offering valuable lessons for contemporary society.
