‘Whatever I am is because of this House’: President Murmu’s emotional address in Odisha Assembly

The Odisha Legislative Assembly on Thursday witnessed a historic and emotional moment as President Droupadi Murmu addressed the House for the first time in her tenure as the President of India.

Calling it a ‘truly special’ occasion, she said her political career began in this very Assembly and credited the House for shaping her journey to the highest constitutional office of the country.

Expressing deep gratitude, President Murmu said, “Whatever I am today, the credit goes to this House. I am delighted to be present here. I have addressed many state legislatures before, but addressing the Odisha Assembly is unique.”

She added that without the blessings of Mahaprabhu Jagannath, she would not have reached where she stands today.

Also Read: From MLA to President of India, Droupadi Murmu returns to Odisha Assembly after 15 years

Recalling her days as an MLA and Minister, President Murmu said she had raised questions in this House as a legislator and also responded to them as a minister. She expressed joy at seeing several former colleagues seated in the gallery, saying their presence made the moment even more meaningful.

The President highlighted Odisha’s glorious heritage and spoke about the state’s maritime history, anti-colonial struggles, and remembered great leaders including Madhusudan Das, Harekrushna Mahatab and Biju Patnaik.

Emphasising the rising role of women in governance, she noted that women’s representation in the Assembly has increased and the House is now presided over by a woman Speaker.

President Murmu said Odisha is blessed with abundant resources and has the potential to become a leading state. She urged all the members to work with dedication to build a prosperous Odisha by 2036.

“People have sent you here with many dreams. It is your duty to bring smiles to their faces,” she reminded legislators.

She concluded her address by advising members to maintain grace and decorum in their speech and conduct, noting that in today’s digital era, everything said in the House is instantly visible to citizens across the world.