Argus News - Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan Seeks Grand Commemoration of Baji Rout Centenary

New Delhi, Feb 24: Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Tuesday wrote to Union Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, urging the organisation of a grand national‑level commemoration in Delhi to mark the birth centenary of India’s youngest martyr, Baji Rout.

In his letter, Pradhan highlighted the extraordinary courage and sacrifice of Baji Rout, who was born on October 5, 1926, at Nilakanthpur village in Odisha’s Dhenkanal district. At just 12 years of age, Rout laid down his life on October 11, 1938, when he refused to allow British forces to cross the Brahmani river at Nilakanthpur ghat. His supreme sacrifice gave fresh momentum to the Gadajat movement and strengthened India’s freedom struggle.

Pradhan emphasised that Rout’s martyrdom is not only a symbol of Odisha’s pride but also a national icon of youthful patriotism. He proposed that the centenary year, which began on October 5, 2025, and will continue until October 5, 2026, be marked with a series of commemorative events across the country. Odisha’s Chief Minister has already announced state‑level celebrations in collaboration with the Baji Rout Memorial Foundation.

To make the occasion memorable, Pradhan suggested a “National Students and Youth Conclave” under the theme “The Immortal Saga of Shaheed Baji Rout: Inspiring Youth for Nation Building.” He recommended seminars, interactive discussions, exhibitions, debates, essay writing, cultural performances, and competitions highlighting unsung freedom fighters.

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According to Pradhan, such initiatives would instill a sense of responsibility and patriotism among students and youth nationwide. He stressed that a national‑level programme under the Ministry of Culture would bring together young people from across India to honour Rout’s legacy and reaffirm the values of sacrifice and nation‑building.