Nabarangpur: Odisha’s centenarian freedom fighter Mohammed Bazi passed away at the age of 103 years at his Sunari Sahi residence here at 10.15 today. He was laid to rest after being accorded Guard of Honour by the district administration.
Freedom Fighter Bazi was unmarried and a strict vegetarian.
He was the student of ex-teacher as well as freedom fighter and ex-Odisha Chief Minister Sadashib Tripathy during his schooling at Jeypore High School of the then undivided Koraput district. There Bazi also came in contact with Radhamohan Biswasray and Radhamohan Sahu.
Inspired by Mahatma Gandhi, he had joined the then Indian National Congress and spread the message of India’s Freedom Movement village to village. He was sent to jail several times during the Quit India Movement.
Despite being a devout Muslim, he endeared all the religions and sects. He used to be an epitome of universal brotherhood and national integration here during all the religious festivals.
He use to put on Khadi dress till end by spinning thread from the glorious ‘Charkha’.
Bazi’s body will be carried to the burial ground on Friday morning in a ceremonial procession amid chanting of Vedic hymns and prayers of all religions.
After receiving national honour by the State Government at around 9.30 AM, he will be buried as per Muslim rituals by 11 AM.