Russia to Honour Biju Patnaik for Role in Stalingrad Operation on May 9

New Delhi: The Russian government will pay tribute to legendary leader and former Odisha Chief Minister Biju Patnaik on May 9, 2025, for his courageous role during the historic Stalingrad Operation in the early 1940s.

As a pilot with Indian National Airways, Biju Patnaik played a crucial role in supplying arms and aid to the Red Army during the Second World War, particularly at a critical juncture in the Battle of Stalingrad. His brave efforts formed part of the wider Allied campaign against the Axis powers.

The recognition will be part of a commemorative event marking the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War. The Russian Embassy in New Delhi will host the event to honour individuals and allies who contributed to the defeat of Nazism and stood in solidarity with the Soviet Union during World War II.

In an official letter dated April 26, 2025, Russian Ambassador to India Denis Alipov confirmed the tribute in a personal communication to Biju Patnaik’s son, Naveen Patnaik, who currently serves as the Leader of Opposition in the Odisha Legislative Assembly and President of the Biju Janata Dal (BJD).

Naveen Patnaik has been invited to attend the ceremony as the Guest of Honour, while India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar will serve as the Chief Guest.

It is worth noting that in 1995, Biju Patnaik was awarded the jubilee medal “50th Anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War 1941–1945” by the Russian Federation in recognition of his wartime contributions.

The upcoming event not only underscores Biju Patnaik’s legacy as a fearless patriot but also strengthens the historical bond between India and Russia.