The Russian embassy in New Delhi has invited former Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik to a reception. File
| Photo Credit: PTI
The Russian embassy in New Delhi has invited former Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik to a reception in recognition of his late father Biju Patnaik’s heroics on the Eastern Front during World War II, which is referred to as the Great Patriotic War in the Soviet Union.
The embassy is hosting the reception to mark the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Great Patriotic War on May 9 in New Delhi.
“In this solemn moment of pride, grief, and unwavering remembrance, we honour those who stood together against Nazism in the anti-Hitler coalition and commemorate the heroic deeds of the people of the former Soviet Union and its allies who bore the brunt of the most brutal conflict in human history,” said Russian Ambassador Denis Alipov in his invitation.
Mr. Alipov said, “Among the heroes we pay tribute to is your late father, Biju Patnaik ji, a towering personality and a valiant pilot of the Indian National Airways who participated in the Stalingrad Operation, supplying weapons to the besieged Red Army.”
Biju decorated in 1995
“In 1995, Russia decorated Biju Patnaik with the jubilee medal — 50th anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War 1941-1945 — for his feat of bravery and courage,” he said.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar is likely to be present as chief guest.
Late Biju Patnaik was also involved in the Indonesian liberation struggle. Former Indian Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru asked him to rescue Indonesian resistance fighters who were confronting Dutch colonial forces. The legendary leader flew a Dakota to Indonesia, and despite heavy “enemy” fire successfully completed the mission. He was conferred the title ‘Bhumiputra’ in Indonesia.
Published – May 06, 2025 07:36 am IST