A Call to Remember, Reflect, and Rise: Speech at Jayadev Bhawan
Bhubaneswar, March 23, 2026:
At the award ceremony organized by Happy Movements of India at Jayadev Bhawan, distinguished guest of honour Lokanath Mishra delivered a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant address, blending history, spirituality, and contemporary concerns into a powerful public message.
“Dear guests, awardees, ladies and gentlemen,”
At the outset, I express my heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Rajendra Panda, the President of Happy Movements of India, for giving me the opportunity to speak on this significant occasion of today’s award ceremony. This day is not only important for celebrating achievements but also for reflecting upon our history, culture, and responsibilities.
Today is not just another day on the calendar. It is a day of remembrance, devotion, and responsibility. It is Sahid Diwas, marking the supreme sacrifice of three of India’s bravest sons—Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev, and Rajguru. On March 23, 1931, within the dark confines of Lahore Central Jail, these young revolutionaries were hanged by the British colonial rulers. Their only crime was their unyielding love for the motherland and their dream of a free India. Bhagat Singh, merely 23 years old, walked to the gallows with a smile, raising the slogan “Inquilab Zindabad!” Their sacrifice ignited a spirit of resistance across the nation and accelerated India’s struggle for independence. Today, we bow our heads in deep respect and gratitude.
At the same time, today holds deep spiritual significance as Laxmi Panchami, a sacred occasion dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi, the embodiment of prosperity, purity, and well-being. Celebrated on the fifth day of the bright fortnight of Chaitra, this festival reminds us that true wealth lies not only in material success but also in righteousness, devotion, and inner peace. In Odisha, this day is observed with great reverence, symbolizing hope for harmony and abundance in every household.
Odisha’s identity is deeply rooted in the timeless and universal Jagannath culture. The sacred abode of Lord Jagannath is reverentially known as Shri Mandira, which stands not merely as a temple but as a symbol of spiritual unity and inclusiveness. It is important to remember that the worship of Lord Jagannath predates the construction of the present temple structure. The traditions, rituals, and devotion associated with Lord Jagannath have existed since ancient times, reflecting a continuous spiritual heritage. Lord Jagannath represents equality and universal brotherhood, where all distinctions of caste, creed, and status dissolve. The Mahaprasad, shared by all without discrimination, stands as a living example of social harmony and divine grace.
Reflecting on history, Odisha’s journey has been both glorious and challenging. From the Kalinga War of 261 BC, which transformed Emperor Ashoka and spread the message of peace and Dharma, to the reign of the great King Kharavela, Odisha stood as a center of power and culture. The construction of the Jagannath Temple in the 12th century further strengthened its spiritual legacy. However, the defeat of the last independent Hindu king, Mukunda Deva, in 1568 AD marked the beginning of foreign domination.
The period from 1568 to 1936 was marked by continuous struggle under Afghan, Mughal, Maratha, and British rule. Despite neglect and adversity, the people of Odisha preserved their language, culture, and identity with remarkable resilience. The formation of Odisha as a separate province in 1936 was a historic achievement born out of sustained effort and unity.
Even today, Odisha is often regarded as a neglected state despite its rich cultural heritage and immense contributions. In this context, the efforts of Happy Movements of India are truly commendable. For the past 14 years, the organization has consistently recognized and honoured deserving individuals who work selflessly in their respective fields. Such recognition not only brings encouragement but also inspires awardees to perform their responsibilities with greater efficiency and dedication.
To all the awardees present here, I extend my sincere congratulations. Your achievements are not just personal milestones but inspirations for society at large.
As I conclude, I bow before Prabhu Shri Jagannath, praying for peace and harmony across the world. In these times of global unrest, particularly the ongoing tensions involving the USA, Israel, and Iran, we seek divine guidance so that wisdom prevails over conflict and humanity moves toward peace and understanding.
Let us remember the sacrifices of our martyrs, uphold our cultural values, and work together for a better and more harmonious world.
Jai Jagannath. Jai Hind.
Lokanath Mishra, IRS ( rtd)
The International Director, The Happy Moments of India: 🇮🇳