Odia Freedom Fighters and Their Contributions (Odisha GK)
📖 Introduction
Odisha played a significant role in India’s freedom struggle. From the Paika Rebellion of 1817, considered the first war of independence, to the Quit India Movement, Odia freedom fighters showed unmatched courage and patriotism. Their sacrifices and leadership inspired generations and are a proud part of Odisha’s history.
Here is a list of famous Odia freedom fighters and their contributions.
| Name | Contribution / Movement |
|---|---|
| Buxi Jagabandhu Bidyadhar Mohapatra | Leader of the Paika Rebellion (1817) against the British East India Company; symbol of Odisha’s first armed resistance. |
| Veer Surendra Sai | Led a long struggle against the British in the Sambalpur region; fought from 1827 till his death in 1884; a symbol of tribal and peasant resistance. |
| Gopabandhu Das | Known as “Utkalmani,”; social reformer, educationist, and nationalist, established Satyabadi Bana Bidyalaya; inspired youth for nation-building. |
| Madhusudan Das | Known as “Utkal Gourab,” the first graduate and lawyer of Odisha, he worked for Odisha’s unification and upliftment, a strong nationalist voice in politics. |
| Rama Devi | Known as “Mother of Odisha,”; led women in the freedom struggle; active participant in Non-Cooperation, Salt Satyagraha, and Quit India Movement. |
| Harekrushna Mahtab | Freedom fighter, writer, and statesman; actively participated in the Quit India Movement; later became the first Chief Minister of Odisha. |
| Pandit Nilakantha Das | One of the “Panchasakha of Satyabadi” worked for social reforms, education, and independence; a strong advocate for the Odia language. |
| Fakir Mohan Senapati | Father of modern Odia literature; also supported socio-political awareness against British policies through his writings. |
| Laxman Naik | Tribal leader from Koraput; played a major role in the Quit India Movement; hanged by the British in 1943. |
| Pandit Krupasindhu Mishra | Prominent leader from the Satyabadi group; participated in the freedom struggle and worked for national awakening through education. |
| Parbati Giri | Known as “Mother Teresa of Western Odisha,”; youngest freedom fighter, joined the Quit India Movement at age 16; later worked for social service. |
| Chintamani Panigrahi | An active participant in the freedom struggle, later a political leader and social worker from Odisha. |
📌 Quick Notes for Exams
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First Revolt in Odisha against the British → Paika Rebellion (1817) led by Buxi Jagabandhu.
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Longest rebel against the British in Odisha → Veer Surendra Sai.
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Mother of Odisha → Rama Devi.
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Utkalmani (Jewel of Odisha) → Gopabandhu Das.
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Utkal Gourab (Pride of Odisha) → Madhusudan Das.
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Youngest Odia woman freedom fighter → Parbati Giri.
📝 Conclusion
Odia freedom fighters made remarkable contributions to India’s independence, from armed revolts to non-violent satyagraha. Their sacrifices shaped Odisha’s identity in the national struggle and remain a source of inspiration for future generations.