Chief Minister and BJD supremo Naveen Patnaik on Friday turned 69 and observed his birthday at his residence, Naveen Niwas, by cutting a cake.
Ministers, MlAs and other BJD functionaries, Government officials and people from different walks of life visited Naveen Niwas to greet Patnaik. Similarly, the newly-elected student leaders belonging to the Biju Chhatra Janata Dal (BCJD) also greeted the Chief Minister.
A photo exhibition showing the photographs of Patnaik of various times and moods was organised at the BJD office here to mark the occasion. The BPUT Students' Union also organised a signature campaign at Master Canteen Square.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also wished Patnaik on his birthday.
"On Naveen Patnaikji's birthday, I extend my greetings & pray for his long and healthy life," tweeted Modi.
The Chief Minister also promptly responded to the PM's greeting via the same micro blogging site. "Thank you so much for your
kind wishes, Sir. With warm regards," responded Patnaik.
Patnaik had skipped his birthday celebration for the last two years in view of devastation caused by the cyclones Phailin and Hudhud in 2013 and 2014, respectively.
Patnaik was born on October 16, 1946. He has been serving as Chief Minister since March 2000.
He is also the founder-president of the BJD.