Bhubaneswar, Dec 16: A solemn tribute meeting was organised in Bhubaneswar to honour the memory of late Prashant Senapati, remembered as one of the early architects of the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) grassroots strength in the capital city.

At a time when the BJP had limited presence and enthusiasm in Odisha, Senapati played a pioneering role in consolidating the party’s base in Bhubaneswar. His initiatives ranged from temple and monastery restoration projects to organising Hanuman Chalisa recitation programmes across neighbourhoods. He also mobilised street vendors, helping them secure permanent shop allocations, and worked tirelessly to energise party cadres across various wards.

Speaking at the memorial, senior RSS functionary and former organisational secretary Prasanna Mishra highlighted Senapati’s emotional bond with the party, noting that his dedication and loyalty inspired many young leaders. Mishra added that Senapati’s efforts contributed significantly to the electoral success of corporators and legislators in Bhubaneswar.

The tribute meeting, chaired by former BJP state president Samir Mohanty, was attended by several dignitaries including Speaker Surama Padhi, Deputy Chief Minister Prabhati Parida, Industries Minister Sampad Chandra Swain, organisational general secretary Manas Mohanty, and other senior leaders. Friends, colleagues, and community representatives also joined to pay floral tributes, underscoring Senapati’s wide influence across political and social spheres.

The gathering reflected the enduring respect for Senapati’s contributions, reaffirming his role as a grassroots organiser who strengthened the BJP’s foundation in Odisha’s capital.