Koraput, 22nd Aug 2025: In the backdrop of India’s Quit India Movement, the forgotten hero of Koraput, Sahid Laxman Nayak, is chronicled in history. After the movement reached Koraput, leaders like Radhakrishna Bishwasray, Radhamohan Mahu, Sadashiv Tripathy, and Nilakantha Patra took charge to intensify the struggle, and Mahid Laxman Nayak actively participated in it.
He was arrested on a murder charge, and despite multiple pieces of evidence being presented, the then Additional Sessions Judge V. Gamanathan sentenced him to death by hanging. Yet, Laxman Nayak remained steadfast, continuing the Quit India Movement from inside prison, taking an active role in the fight against colonial rule.
He opposed social evils such as tyranny and bonded labor, and, inspired by Gandhiji’s ideals, he fought fearlessly against the British, motivated by principles of justice and non-violence. He communicated instructions and encouragement to fellow freedom fighters through letters.
On 21st August, during Mathili Gunikand Day, the people of undivided Koraput silently paid tribute to this great revolutionary. Every Odia feels proud of the courageous story of Mahid Laxman Nayak.
Malakangiri, 20/8 (Premendra Parija): Mahid Laxman Nayak was born on 22nd November 1899 in Bant Palada, Tentuligumpha. From his youth, he joined the independence struggle, dedicating his life to the nation. In Indian history, his journey became immortal on 21st August 1942, when he led the march towards Mathili with supporters during the Quit India Movement. Despite heavy monsoon rains and rough river crossings, the movement participants reached Mathili.
At sunrise, people gathered, carrying flags and shouting slogans of the Quit India Movement, and marched toward the local police station. A large crowd assembled near the Mathili police station, which was pre-prepared to crush the movement. The police attacked the peaceful protestors, firing on them to suppress the uprising. In the police firing, a forester named Ramaya was killed, and many freedom fighters, including Linga Kotia, Nakul Madakami, Samara Nayak, Udayanath Odia, were seriously injured.
Laxman Nayak, along with other leaders, continued the fight even after this brutal repression. He was later arrested by the police for the death of Ramaya. While imprisoned in Brahmapur Jail, he was hanged on 29th March 1943.
Throughout his life, Mahid Laxman Nayak remained a symbol of courage and sacrifice, fighting against injustice, social evils, and colonial oppression, dedicating his life to the freedom of India.