Sambalpur, Dec 29: Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan joined the Smruti Padayatra in Sambalpur’s Kudopali to pay homage to Veer Chhabila Sai, one of the valiant freedom fighters of India’s First War of Independence in 1857.

The Tiranga Yatra was organized to honour the martyr and his fellow revolutionaries who laid down their lives fighting against British colonial rule.

Union Minister Pradhan walked alongside local residents, school students, and community members in Kudopali, symbolizing unity and respect for the sacrifices made by the heroes of the land.

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During the occasion, Dharmendra Pradhan visited the Veer Surendra Sai Adarsha Anganwadi Centre and offered floral tributes at the memorial pillars dedicated to Veer Chhabila Sai and Veer Surendra Sai.

The Union Education Minister also toured the Veer Chhabila Sai Shaheed Museum, which preserves the legacy of the freedom struggle and educates future generations about the courage of the martyrs.

In addition, Dharmendra Pradhan inaugurated a newly constructed welcome gate on the National Highway near Kudopali, built in memory of the martyr, marking the site as a place of historical significance.

At Kudopali battlefield, Union Minister Pradhan paid homage to Veer Chhabila Sai and 57 other revolutionaries who fought valiantly against the British.

Historical accounts recall that on December 30, 1857, Veer Chhabila Sai and 53 of his comrades were martyred in battle, while four others were captured and executed by hanging.

The event not only commemorated their sacrifice but also served as a reminder of the indomitable spirit of resistance that shaped India’s freedom struggle.