Every year Maharaja Sri Ramachandra Bhanjadeo’s Birth Anniversary is celebrated on 17th in the month of December all over Orissa. This much admired statesman was born in Baripada, in the Mayurbhanj District of Odisha. Before he could finish his graduation at Ravenshaw college, this Great man was sworn in as the King of Mayurbhanj in the year 1890. Though he discontinued his study he visited many countries like America, Europe, Switzerland, Japan, England and China etc. It was Maharaja Shri Ramachandra Bhanjadeo who raised the pinnacles of Glory and opened a new chapter of the Golden Era of Bhanja Dynasty.
Shri Ramachandra Bhanja Dev ( 1870-1912)
Shri Ramachandra Bhanja Dev created a name for himself as an enlightened ruler of princely state of Mayurbhanj. Ascended the throne on 15th August 1892. He worked for all round development of Mayurbhanj state and implemented various welfare schemes designed to help the people. He was revered as a Philosopher king.
Impressed with the nobel qualities of Utkal Mani Gopabandhu Das he made him his advocate. Gopabandhu turned out to be friend philosopher guide for the ruler. Constituted the state council for administration in the state. Brought about reforms in the sphere of language, health and administration. During his rein scientific operation of Iron mines were started for first time. Commissioned narrow gauge railway life from Rupsa to Baripada.
Presided over the first meeting of Utkal Samilani on 3rd December 1933. a patriot and great patron of Oriya language. He helped in a big way in setting up of educational and medical institution for the largest benefit of the people.
Sri Ramachandra Bhanjadeo: Maker of Modern Odisha:-
The Maharaja is regarded as one of the Makers of Modern Orissa. He was always using his travel experience for the upliftment and development of the State of Orissa. He introduced latest system of administration in the field of Agriculture, Education, Industry, Commerce etc. in the State. He was always trying to exploit the rich physical and natural resources of Odisha for the benefit of people.
He has helped many institutions economically like the Cuttack Medical College, Ravenshaw College, Utkal Sahitya Samaj, Cuttack Townhall, Utkal University, Banaras Hindu University and the Utkal Sammilani etc.
I pay my profound gratitudes to such a noble son of Odisha on the eve of his birth anniversary.
