Tue May 06 02:06:26 UTC 2025: ## Russian Embassy Honors Biju Patnaik’s WWII Service at Victory Day Reception

**New Delhi, May 6, 2025** – The Russian embassy in New Delhi will host a reception on May 9th to commemorate the 80th anniversary of Victory Day (the end of World War II). The event will pay tribute to Biju Patnaik, the late father of former Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, for his courageous contributions to the Allied effort during the war.

Mr. Patnaik, a pilot with Indian National Airways, participated in the crucial Stalingrad Operation, supplying vital weapons to the besieged Red Army. His bravery was recognized in 1995 with the “50th anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War 1941-1945” jubilee medal.

Russian Ambassador Denis Alipov extended a personal invitation to Naveen Patnaik, highlighting Biju Patnaik’s role as a “towering personality and a valiant pilot.” The reception will also honor all those who fought against Nazism. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar is expected to attend as the chief guest.

Biju Patnaik’s legacy extends beyond his wartime service. He also played a significant role in the Indonesian independence struggle, famously rescuing Indonesian resistance fighters from Dutch colonial forces. This earned him the title “Bhumiputra” (son of the soil) in Indonesia.

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