I. Chandra Shekhar Behera (1873-.1926)was a freedom fighter from Sambalpur, Odisha (formerly Orissa).
He played a significant role in the Indian independence movement, particularly in the Sambalpur region. Behera was involved in various activities, including:
1. Non-cooperation movement
2. Civil disobedience movement
3. Quit India Movement
He was also associated with prominent national leaders, such as Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru.
Chandra Shekhar Behera happened to be the first lawyer of Sambalpur. His contributions to the freedom struggle have been recognized by the Government of India, and he is considered a respected figure in Odisha’s history. It was an important event in India, when for the first time the students of Sambalpur Zilla school boycotted their school to join freedom movement under the leadership of Chandra Shekhar Behera. He was so close to Gandhiji that when Mahatma Gandhi visited Sambalpur. In 1938 he stayed in the house of C S Behera accompanied by wife Kasturba and secretary Mahadev Desai
II. Banamali Babu from Sambalpur is another notable figure from Odisha’s history.
Banamali Babu 1918-1998) was a freedom fighter, social reformer, and writer from Sambalpur Odisha.
He was an advocate by profession but later he joined politics. He held key post in then cabinet of Odisha ministry and did a lot for Sambalpur. He was also a key figure in the Indian independence movement and played a significant role in the region’s struggle for freedom.
Some of his notable contributions include:
1. Founding the Sambalpur branch of the Indian National Congress
2. Participating in the Non-Cooperation Movement and Civil Disobedience Movement
3. Advocating for women’s education and social reform
4. Writing articles and books on social and political issues
Banamali Babu was also a close associate of prominent national leaders, his legacy continues to inspire people in Odisha. He was a lover of Education and the founder member of many institutions like Sambalpur university, LR law College, Homoeopathic college, Govt.Training college, Women’s college ,Trust fund college and many more. The present VIMSAR and VSSUT are also the out come of his personal effort.
III. Dr Janardan Pujari from Sambalpur is a notable figure in Odisha’s medical and social history.
Dr. Janardan Pujari (1893-1961) was a renowned physician, social worker, and freedom fighter from Sambalpur, Odisha. He made significant contributions to the region’s healthcare and social development.
Some of his notable achievements include:
1. Establishing the first private hospital in Sambalpur, “Pujari Hospital”
2. Providing medical care to the poor and marginalized communities
3. Participating in the Indian independence movement
4. Working for social causes, such as education and women’s empowerment
5. Receiving awards and recognition for his contributions to healthcare and social service
Dr. Janardan Pujari is remembered as a dedicated and compassionate doctor, a true son of Sambalpur, and a role model for future generations. He is believed to be a saint that patients got noncured with his healing touch. He was a great man whom people lovingly called Daktarbapa, which means “Doctor father”.
IV. Bhagirathi Pattanaik (1884-1980) from Barapali, undivided Sambalpur district, was indeed a notable freedom fighter.
Bhagirathi Pattanaik was a dedicated freedom fighter from Barapali, which was part of the undivided Sambalpur district (now in Bargarh district, Odisha). He actively participated in the Indian independence movement, fighting against British colonial rule.
Some key aspects of his contributions include:
1. Active involvement in the Non-Cooperation Movement and Quit India Movement
2. Organization of protests, demonstrations, and rallies against British rule
3. Close association with other prominent freedom fighters from Odisha
4. Courageous leadership and dedication to the cause of Indian independence
Bhagirathi Pattanaik’s efforts and sacrifices played a significant role in India’s struggle for freedom. His legacy continues to inspire people in Odisha and beyond.