Pandit Gopabandhu Das (1877–1928), popularly known as Utkalmani (Jewel of Odisha), was a prominent freedom fighter, social reformer, educationist, journalist, poet and public servant from Odisha. He devoted much of his life to education, social service, Odia identity and India's freedom movement.
Early Life of Gopabandhu Das
| Name: | Pandit Gopabandhu Das |
| Popular Title: | Utkalmani |
| Born: | 9 October 1877, Suando, Puri |
| Died: | 17 June 1928 |
| Parents: | Daitari Das and Swarnamayee Devi |
| Education: | Puri Zilla School, Ravenshaw College, Cuttack. |
| Public service: | During his student years, he developed a strong commitment to public service and social welfare. |
| Known For: | Freedom movement, education, social service, journalism and Odia literature |
| Major Institution: | Satyabadi Bana Vidyalaya |
| Newspaper: | The Samaja |
Social Service of Gopabandhu Das
Gopabandhu Das believed that serving people was a fundamental duty. During a cholera outbreak in Puri, he organised the Puri Seva Samiti to help affected people. He also participated in relief work during floods and other calamities.
Satyabadi Bana Vidyalaya
One of his most important contributions to education was the establishment of Satyabadi Bana Vidyalaya at Sakhigopal in 1909. The institution emphasised character building, patriotism, self-reliance and education in a natural environment.
Role in India's Freedom Movement
Gopabandhu became actively involved in the nationalist movement. He participated in the Non-Cooperation Movement and worked to spread national consciousness in Odisha. Mahatma Gandhi visited Odisha in 1921 at Gopabandhu's invitation. Gopabandhu was later imprisoned for his nationalist activities.
Journalism – The Samaja
In 1919, Gopabandhu founded The Samaja as a weekly newspaper. Through journalism, he addressed issues such as education, health, agriculture, rural development and social conditions, while also communicating the ideas of the national movement.
Literary Contribution
Gopabandhu was also an important Odia poet and writer. His writings reflected patriotism, compassion, sacrifice, social responsibility and concern for ordinary people. His prison writing “Bandira Atmakatha” (Autobiography of a Prisoner) is among his well-known literary works.
Political & Social Work of Gopabandhu Das
He served as a member of the Bihar and Orissa Legislative Council from 1917 to 1920 and was associated with the Utkal Sammilani. He advocated education, social reform, the development of Odia-speaking areas and welfare of poor and marginalised communities. Gopabandhu Das passed away on 17 June 1928. His life is remembered in Odisha for its emphasis on service, sacrifice, education, literature and public welfare. Odisha government commemorations continue to describe him as Utkalmani and honour his contribution to the state and society.