The 125th Birth Anniversary of Utkal Keshari Dr Harekrushna Mahtab was celebrated from 7th-9th November 2025 at Sanskruti Bhawan, Jagatsinghpur, Odisha. The programme was organised by Sarbottam Social Organisation in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, aiming to highlight Dr. Mahtab’s significant contribution to the freedom movement, social reforms and national unity.
A comprehensive district-wide awareness campaign was executed before the event. The commemoration event was marked with a photo exhibition displaying 300 archival photographs of Dr Mahtab’s life. It was inaugurated by Dr. Prasan Kumar Patasani, ex-MP, in the presence of officials including Shri Dilip Kumar Jena, Shri Gyanranjan Acharya, and President of Sarbottam Social Organisation Shri Rabindra Kumar Behera. Students participated in drawing, debate, and quiz competitions, followed by Odissi, Gotipua, and Ghoomura performances.
The second day featured debate and quiz competitions at Mahima School of Nursing, where 215 students participated in activities centred on Dr. Mahtab’s leadership and legacy. The evening programme included a series of cultural performances presented by folk and traditional troupes from across Odisha.
The final day was highlighted by a discussion session with around 50 shortlisted participants, followed by a seminar addressed by dignitaries. The discussions underscored Dr Mahtab’s crucial contribution during the freedom struggle, his extraordinary role in the unification & shaping of Odisha as a state post-independence and in guiding social reform.
The programme concluded with a valedictory ceremony where 570 participants received certificates and trophies, ending with performances by six cultural groups showcasing traditional and folk art forms.
