Today is the birthday of Nabakrusna choudhary the second chief minister of the Indian state of Odisha.
He was also a freedom fighter who participated in the non-cooperation movement, civil disobedience movement, and the peasant’s movement (particularly, the Bhoodan movement
Some people asked him to keep out of politics. He told them by a meaningful smile, ” People are my life.” When he was slightly better, he was released on parole. The doctors put some restrictions on his movements. Wife Malati Devi was also released from Cuttack Jail. Both of them came to Angul.[25]
Facing criticism at home and from many world leaders, Indira Gandhi withdrew the Emergency Rule paving the way for another general election . Many opposition leaders were still in jail. The opposition lacked adequate financial resources. The opposition leaders were not able to go to the people. Congress was defeated miserably. Nabababu was really happy over this.
Nabababu had not fully recovered from the stroke he suffered during prison . But had kept his habit of reading books and journals. Nabababu was a voracious reader. He used to read extensively books, even the latest ones, and journals on politics, education, Marxism, Gandhian philosophy and development. Many intellectuals from abroad were visiting him to discuss about Gandhian philosophy. Neelam Sanjeeva Reddy had come to look him up
Early life and education
Born in 23November 1901 in the village of Kherasa, Jagatsinghpur district, to Gokulananda Choudhury, an accomplished lawyer.
Studied at the Pyari Mohan Academy and Ravenshaw College in Cuttack.
Joined the non-cooperation movement with other students, including Nityananda Kanungo and Harekrushna Mahtab, in 1921.
Political and social contributions
Went to Sabarmati Ashram in 1922 to learn about Khadi and Gandhian programs.
Studied at Shanti Niketan under Rabindranath Tagore for a year in 1925.
Participated in the non-cooperation and civil disobedience movements and was imprisoned in Hazaribagh jail.
Won the 1946 provincial election and became the Revenue Minister.
Became the Chief Minister of Odisha in 1950, focusing on the upliftment of the poor, dalits, and tribals.
Supported the Bhoodan movement and founded institutions like the Bajirout Chhatrabasa and Jeevan Vidyalaya to promote self-reliance and dignity of labor.
Known for his simple lifestyle even while in power.
Legacy
Remembered for his commitment to public service and his vision for an idealistic society based on justice and equality.
Was the first minister to deliver a budget speech in Odia.
Authored several articles and was a voracious reader.
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