TNI Bureau: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi attended the release of the book “Vedanta Kesari Swami Laxmanananda Saraswati: Kruti O Byaktitwa” in Bhubaneswar and said the life, sacrifice and service of Swami Laxmanananda Saraswati would continue to inspire future generations.

Speaking at the programme held at the Railway Auditorium, the Chief Minister said the saint’s contribution to tribal welfare, social reform and nation-building remains a source of inspiration for society. He said the newly released book would help introduce Swami Laxmanananda’s life and ideals to the younger generation.

CM said Swami Laxmanananda was not just a spiritual leader but also a dedicated social reformer who worked for the welfare of tribal communities in Kandhamal. Through the Chakapad and Jalespata Ashrams, he promoted education among tribal children, especially girls, and worked to make them self-reliant.

The Chief Minister announced that Swami Laxmanananda’s message and ideals would be taken to villages across Odisha during his birth centenary year, which begins on August 21. Seminars and workshops will also be organised in universities across the country to spread awareness about his life and contributions.

He further said that the Odisha Government has already decided to name the Government Medical College and Hospital at Phulbani after Swami Laxmanananda Saraswati. In addition, ₹13 crore has been sanctioned for the preservation and development of the Jalespata Ashram, including heritage conservation, construction of a 300-seat girls’ hostel, water supply facilities and other infrastructure works.

Referring to the 2008 killing of Swami Laxmanananda Saraswati, the Chief Minister said the disappearance of files related to the Justice Naidu Commission report was a serious matter and not a routine administrative lapse. He said the Crime Branch has been asked to investigate the missing files and assured that the state government would not spare those responsible for the crime.

RSS General Secretary Dattatreya Hosabole, who attended the event as chief guest, described Swami Laxmanananda as a great spiritual leader and social reformer. He said the saint dedicated his life to social service, religious awareness and the welfare of the underprivileged, adding that his ideals continue to guide society.

Former Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan said Swami Laxmanananda made a significant contribution to the development of Kandhamal and worked extensively for women’s education and social empowerment. He said the saint’s vision and values would continue to inspire the goal of a developed Odisha and a developed India.

The book has been jointly authored by Bipin Bihari Nanda and Banchhanidhi Panda in Odia and Hindi. Spiritual leader Swami Paramhansa Prajnanananda, Swami Laxmanananda Saraswati Smruti Nyas president Swami Jivan Muktananda, and Mansukhlal Sethia were among those present at the programme.