Naveen Patnaik, a prominent Indian politician, holds the distinction of being Odisha’s longest-serving Chief Minister. He’s also the founder of the Biju Janata Dal (BJD), a party he established in honor of his father.
Wiki/Biography
Naveen Patnaik was born on October 16, 1946, in Cuttack, Odisha. He celebrated his 77th birthday in 2023. His zodiac sign is Libra. His education began at Welham Boys School and Doon School, both in Dehradun. Art was his favorite subject, and he had a passion for oil painting. He later earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Kirori Mal College in New Delhi.
Following his graduation, he pursued a career as an author, publishing four books between 1985 and 1993. A notable aspect of this period was his friendship with Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, whom he met during her 1983 visit to India. They even collaborated on two books together, and she even assisted in editing one of his works. He’s known for his love of travel, extensively exploring the world, particularly before the age of 50, spending much of his youth outside Odisha.
In 1965, alongside a friend, he launched an apparel boutique called “Psychedelhi” within the Oberoi Hotel, New Delhi. His clientele included such notable figures as members of The Beatles, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, and Paul McCartney. His business success expanded to supplying designer clothing to outlets in London.
Physical Appearance
- Height: 5′ 10″
- Weight: Approximately 80 kg
- Eye Color: Black
- Hair Color: White
Family, Caste & Wife
Naveen Patnaik hails from the Karana caste. His father, Biju Patnaik, was a distinguished Indian politician, and his mother, Gyan Patnaik, was a pilot. He has an older brother, Prem Patnaik (a businessman), and an older sister, Geeta Mehta (a writer). He remains unmarried.
Political Career
Naveen Patnaik’s political journey began after his father’s passing in 1997. The Janata Dal, eager to retain Biju Patnaik’s seat, approached his children. After his siblings declined, Naveen, with their consent, decided to contest the election. He joined the Janata Dal in 1997 and secured victory in the 1998 General Elections. He served as the Union Minister for Mines under Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s government.
Following the Janata Dal’s dissolution in 1998, he founded the Biju Janata Dal (BJD). His party’s alliance with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) led to victory in the 2000 Odisha Assembly Elections. He assumed the office of Chief Minister of Odisha on March 5, 2000, and has served continuously since then, making him Odisha’s longest-serving CM. His fifth term as Chief Minister ended in June 2024 following an electoral defeat.
Awards, Honours & Achievements
His accolades include recognition from the United Nations for gender equality initiatives, disaster management during Cyclone Phailin, and administrative excellence.
Controversies
Throughout his career, Naveen Patnaik has faced several controversies, including the split from the BJP alliance, allegations of illegal mining, and criticism regarding his governance style and handling of corruption.
Address
Naveen Nivas, Aerodrome Road, Khurda District, Bhubaneswar
Signature
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Assets & Properties
The following table summarizes Naveen Patnaik’s assets and properties as reported (Note: Data may not reflect the most current information):
| Asset Type | Value (as of 2019) |
|---|---|
| Movable Assets | Rs. 17.75 Lacs |
| Cash | Rs. 25,000 |
| Bank Deposits | Rs. 14.23 Lacs |
| Jewellery | Rs. 2.12 Lacs |
| Properties | Rs. 63.10 Crores |
Salary & Net Worth
Salary: Rs. 98,000 + allowances (as CM of Odisha)
Net Worth (2019): Rs. 63.86 Crores
Facts
- He is known to be a chain smoker, enjoying Grouse Whiskey and Dunhill cigarettes.
- He once had a minor role in the film “The Deceivers” (1988).
- Early in his tenure as Chief Minister, he was known for his strong stance against corruption.
- He entered the world of social media relatively late, not owning a mobile phone until 2015.
- He has faced criticism for not speaking Odia fluently.
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