Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha on Monday said that practising the life philosophy of Shyama Prasad Mukherjee would inspire future generations with the values of honesty, duty, self-sacrifice and patriotism, ultimately contributing to the building of a strong, united and progressive nation.
Addressing the inaugural ceremony of the 125th birth anniversary celebrations of Shyama Prasad Mukherjee at the Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Town Hall in Agartala, the Chief Minister described him as a great patriot, eminent educationist, distinguished parliamentarian and visionary statesman.
He said that Mukherjee made remarkable contributions to education, society, culture, and national life at a young age, and remained steadfast in safeguarding the unity, integrity, and national cohesion of the country throughout his public life.
Before the programme, the Chief Minister unveiled a plaque to mark the laying of the foundation stone for a 13-foot-high bronze statue of Mukherjee at the Town Hall premises and performed the Bhoomi Puja. He said the initiative symbolises not merely the beginning of a construction project but a tribute to the nation's history, heritage and core values.
According to the Chief Minister, the statue would help future generations learn about Mukherjee's life, contributions and ideals while serving as a lasting symbol of patriotism, national consciousness and selfless public service. He added that India has produced many eminent statesmen who made immense sacrifices for the country, but the lives and contributions of several such personalities have not been presented to the people in the manner they deserved.
Referring to leaders such as Shyama Prasad Mukherjee and Deen Dayal Upadhyaya, Saha said they taught the nation the true meaning of selfless service and dedication to the country. He further said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is taking the country forward by drawing inspiration from and following the life philosophy and ideals of these great national leaders.
Speaking on the occasion, Agartala Municipal Corporation Mayor and MLA Dipak Majumder termed the day a historic occasion and said Mukherjee's philosophy would continue to inspire people to serve the nation with dedication, commitment and sacrifice.
He said the late leader devoted his life to building a united and strong India beyond the barriers of caste, religion and colour, and urged everyone to work towards strengthening the country by following his ideals. The Mayor announced that the 13-foot-high bronze statue of Mukherjee is expected to be completed within the next three to four months.
He also revealed plans to establish a paperless civil hospital in Agartala's Kashari Patti area, named after Shyama Prasad Mukherjee. Among those present at the foundation stone-laying ceremony were several BJP MLAs and senior officials.
As part of the 125th birth anniversary celebrations, a documentary highlighting the life, vision, and contributions of Shyama Prasad Mukherjee was screened, and a photo exhibition showcasing significant milestones from his life and public career was organised at the Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Town Hall.