TNI Bureau: Bargarh Member of Parliament Pradip Purohit strongly raised the issue of commemorating the 200-year legacy of legendary freedom fighter Veer Surendra Sai in Parliament, urging the Centre to accord greater national recognition to the iconic leader from Odisha.

During his intervention, Purohit highlighted the immense contribution of Veer Surendra Sai in India’s freedom struggle, particularly in resisting British rule in western Odisha. He emphasized that despite Sai’s prolonged and courageous resistance against colonial forces, his legacy has not received the level of national attention it deserves.

Veer Surendra Sai, born in 1809 in Sambalpur, led a prolonged rebellion against the British and played a crucial role in delaying their control over large parts of the region. His struggle, spanning decades, symbolised tribal resistance and regional assertion against colonial expansion.

The MP called upon the Union Government to commemorate the 200-year milestone associated with Sai’s historic resistance movement in a befitting manner. He reportedly demanded initiatives such as national-level celebrations, inclusion of his contributions in academic curricula, and development of heritage sites linked to his life.

Purohit also stressed that recognizing Veer Surendra Sai at the national level would inspire future generations and bring deserved attention to Odisha’s role in India’s independence movement.

The issue has gained significance as leaders from western Odisha have consistently demanded wider acknowledgment of the freedom fighter, who is revered locally as the “Lion of Sambalpur.”

The Parliament intervention is seen as part of a broader push to elevate regional heroes like Veer Surendra Sai into the national consciousness, aligning with ongoing efforts to highlight unsung icons of India’s freedom struggle.