Bhubaneswar: The first death anniversary of Muralidhar Rath, a renowned social leader and pioneer of development in Tirtol area of Jagatsinghpur district, will be observed at his village on July 17. This was informed at a press meet here on Sunday.
People of Jagatsinghpur district will pay their heartfelt tributes to veteran grassroots leader and former Sarpanch Muralidhar Rath on the occasion of his first death anniversary and remember his lifelong dedication to public service, rural development, and communal harmony.
Born on February 2, 1936, in Chandpur village under Mudupur Panchayat, Muralidhar was the only son of late Dhaneshwar Rath and Late Champa Devi. Although he began his professional journey as a successful businessman, his passion for serving society drew him into public life, where he devoted decades to the welfare and development of rural communities.
Throughout his journey, he received unwavering support from his family, including his wife Late Kanchanbala Devi, his eldest son Late Pramod Kumar Rath (Kuna), and other family members, whose encouragement strengthened his commitment to social service.
A four-time Sarpanch of Patilo Panchayat, Muralidhar was widely respected as an able grassroots leader, earning the trust and confidence of the people. His leadership abilities also saw him serve as the President of the Cuttack District Sarpanch Mahasangh and vice-chairman of Tirtol block. He admired veteran politician Nishamani Khuntia as his political mentor and maintained a close association with former Deputy Chief Minister Basant Kumar Biswal.
His tenure as Sarpanch is remembered as a landmark period in the development of Patilo panchayat. Among his notable achievements were bringing electricity to the panchayat, facilitating the construction of Arijang Sub-Minor Canal, and establishing several primary schools. He also played a pivotal role in setting up a post office, veterinary hospital, police station, anganwadi centre, upgraded rural mortuary, guest house, and a branch of a nationalised bank at Chandpur village.
Beyond politics, Muralidhar was deeply spiritual and actively promoted religious and cultural values. Following the teachings of Mahapurusha Achyutananda, he established a Yagna Mandap adjacent to the Shri Ram Temple in Chandpur, where an annual yajna dedicated to universal peace continues to be organised. He also spearheaded the renovation of the ancient Shri Chandrasekhar Temple, the village deity’s shrine, and the construction of a grand Shri Ram temple.
Despite his deep religious faith, he remained a strong advocate of communal harmony. He believed in peaceful coexistence and extended support for the development of mosques and other community institutions, earning respect across religious and social boundaries.
Known for his frankness, fearless speech, and practical understanding of governance and law despite limited formal education, Muralidhar was admired for his integrity and commitment to public welfare. In recognition of his selfless service, he received several honours, including the prestigious Samaj Seva Samman from various social and religious organisations across Odisha. Shortly before his passing, he was also conferred the “Glory of India-2025” award by a reputed national forum in New Delhi for his outstanding contribution to society.
Muralidhar passed away on June 28, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of service, leadership, and development that continues to inspire the people of Jagatsinghpur. On his first death anniversary, political leaders, social organisations, well-wishers, and residents will pay rich tributes to the departed leader, recalling his invaluable contribution to rural development and public life. His legacy lives on through the institutions he helped establish, the lives he touched, and the enduring spirit of service he instilled in the community.
Senior journalists Pramod Kumar Samantray and Girija Shankar Dash briefed the media persons about the observance of the anniversary at Hotel 7 Miles near Khandagiri here.