Former PM Manmohan Singh’s special connection with Odisha, the land of Lord Jagannath

Manmohan Singh, two-time PM and architect of India’s economic reforms, passed away due to age-related medical conditions in AIIMS Delhi at 92 on Thursday night. The former PM is being mourned by people across the world and leaders across the political spectrum.

Prominent leaders including PM Modi, and HM Amit Shah paid their respects and offered condolences to his family. PM Modi expressed his deep sorrow and called him the epitome of simplicity as he lauded Dr. Singh’s immense contribution to the nation’s progress.

The central government has announced a seven-day national mourning as a mark of respect for Dr. Singh till January 1, 2025, to honour his legacy. Meanwhile, the people of Odisha remembered Dr. Singh with much love as he had a notable connection with Odisha.

Also Read: PM Modi, HM Shah, others pay tributes to former PM Manmohan Singh

Yes, you read that right! The family of former Dr Manmohan Singh has notable connections to Odisha, a detail underscored by family ties and personal visits. Dr. Singh's daughter, Daman Singh, is married to Ashok Pattnaik, an Indian Police Service (IPS) officer from the Gujarat cadre, who hails from Odisha.

This link was brought into focus in 2012 when Dr Singh's wife, Gursharan Kaur, made a visit to her daughter's home in Bhubaneswar. Their family home in Bhubaneswar not only represents familial warmth but also the blending of cultures that characterises much of India's social fabric.

This visit highlighted the connection between the family of the former Prime Minister and the culturally rich state of Odisha, often known for its rich heritage, delicacies, and the famous Jagannath Temple in Puri. 

This apart, Dr. Singh was a huge admirer of Odisha, the land of Jagannath and was attracted to Odisha food, traditions and customs. He had visited Odisha both before and after taking the office of PM.

Like Dr. Singh, his son-in-law Ashok, the 1983-batch IPS’s family also lives a very simple life. He worked as the CEO of the National Intelligence Grid (NATGRID). He was also the CEO of the Intelligence Grid Network. In 2007, Ashok received the President’s Police Medal, which was bestowed on him by Dr. Singh when he was the Prime Minister.