Sri Krushna Chandra Gajapati Narayan Deo was a visionary leader and key figure in Odisha's history. Born on April 26, 1892, in Paralakhemundi, he was the Maharaja of the estate and played a crucial role in the formation of Odisha as a separate province in 1936 

Early Life and Education

Gajapati received his initial education at home and later attended Maharaja's High School in Paralakhemundi. He ascended the throne in 1913, following his father's death, and continued his education, focusing on administrative and cultural responsibilities 

Contributions to Odisha

Gajapati's contributions to Odisha are immense:

 Unification of Odia-speaking regions: He advocated for a separate Odisha province, presenting the case to British committees, including the Montagu-Chelmsford Reforms panel in 1919 and the Round Table Conference in 1930.

 Education and infrastructure: He founded Utkal University, SCB Medical College, and the Central Rice Research Institute, and established numerous schools, hospitals, and industrial institutions.

 Agricultural development: He promoted modern agricultural practices, constructing reservoirs like Krushna Sagar and Ramasagar, and introducing high-yield crop varieties 

Leadership Roles

Gajapati served as:

Prime Minister of Odisha: Twice, from April 1, 1937, to July 18, 1937, and November 24, 1941, to June 30, 1944.

 Member of the Constituent Assembly of India: From 1947 to 1950, contributing to India's post-independence governance structure 

Awards and Recognition

Gajapati received:

- Knight Commander of the Order of the Indian Empire (KCIE): In 1946, for his services.

- Honorary doctorates: From Utkal University and Berhampur University.

- Gajapati District: Named in his honor in 1992