Nayagarh: The local community gathered in Naupada village, Bolgarh block, Kaltang Panchayat, to observe the first Shraddha anniversary of the late social worker Laxman Mangaraj. Educator Prafulla Kumar Mahapatra presided over the memorial event, which saw the participation of several prominent figures.
Laxman Mangaraj, who retired from the State Road Transport Corporation as a technical employee, had devoted himself to various social causes. He played a leading role in rural tree-planting initiatives and actively participated in Ramcharit Manas and Bhagavat Satsang activities, earning great respect as a community leader.
Key attendees included Kishore Chandra Hota, teacher Manmohan Roy, head teacher Somnath Pradhan, and educationist Ramesh Kumar Balbantarai. Spiritual leader Santh Haricaran Das Maharaj graced the occasion, bringing a sense of serenity and reflection to the event.
Principal Sevathy Parida and Jyotsnamani Mangaraj paid tribute by reciting a heartfelt memorial poem. Other speakers, including Subal Jadalsingh, Girija Prasad Rautharai, and Vijaya Kumar Mangaraj, shared their memories of Laxman Mangaraj and highlighted his numerous contributions. They emphasized his multi-talented nature and his unwavering commitment to the welfare of the community.
Educator Prasanna Kumar Srichandan offered a vote of thanks, and Manoj Kumar Gumansingh concluded the ceremony with a recitation of the fifteenth chapter of the Gita. Local MLA Pradeep Kumar Sahu and Chief Minister Shiitri Jajinseni Sahu also paid their final respects, underscoring the high esteem in which Laxman Mangaraj was held by both political and social leaders.
The Shraddha ceremony served as a heartfelt tribute to a man whose life was dedicated to improving his community, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire.