Jharsuguda, Dec 30: Kishore Da (Kishore Kumar Mohanty) was a very good man. He used to talk to everyone smiling. He was never angry. Even before entering politics, he served the people. For this unique nature, Kishore Da will remain seated in the hearts of the people of Odisha, especially in Jharsuguda, said Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan while attending the third death anniversary of former Odisha Assembly Speaker, Rajya Sabha MP and MLA late Kishore Mohanty in Jharsuguda on Monday.

Paying floar tribute at late Mohanty’s portrait, Pradhan said, “Both Kishore Da and I have spent a lot of time before and after coming to direct politics. He was a very down to earth man. He loved me a lot. We never had any political differences. In 2000, Kishore Bhai and I were elected to the Assembly together. In 2004, when I was an MP from Deogarh Lok Sabha constituency, he was an MLA from Jharsuguda. We fought both the elections under adverse circumstances. His principles are a source of inspiration for people like us. I got inspiration from Kishore da to meet the poor and needy in social life.”  

The Union Minister further said the development of Jharsuguda and the development of Odisha through Jharsuguda was his vision. He is no more today but for a long time in the life of Odia people, Kishore da will remain seated in everyone's heart. A befitting tribute to him would be only if his noble thoughts are further illuminated. The formation of the 'Kishore Mohanty Foundation' to protect his memory and the extensive efforts being made by the Kishore Mohanty Memorial Committee are commendable, lauded Pradhan.