Swayam Prava Rath’s poetry collection ‘Shabda Phulara Tarpana’ released in US

Pradeep Pattanayak

Denver: Denver in US witnessed a vibrant celebration of literature and culture as renowned poet and author Smt. Swayam Prava Rath’s book of poems titled ‘Shabda Phulara Tarpana’ was unveiled on an international platform at the Odisha fortnight celebration, organised by the Odisha Society of the America’s, Rocky Mountain Chapter.

The event drew a spirited gathering of the Odia diaspora from across Colorado and neighbouring states, who came together in a show of unity and nostalgia. The atmosphere turned deeply evocative as the attendees participated in a heartfelt singing of Odisha’s state anthem ‘Bande Utkal Janani’.

Following the launch of the book, Mrs. Swayam Prava Rath held the audience spellbound with reciting some of her poems and talking about the glorious traditions and rich cultural heritage of Odisha. She also praised the Odia community for their professional contributions, excellence in all spheres of life and for keeping the traditions of Odisha alive in a far way nation.

The evening blossomed into a cultural feast, featuring Odissi dance performances that added colour and grace to the celebration.

Among the distinguished guests present were the OSA – Rocky Mountain Chapter’s President and Treasurer Shri Rajat Pradhan and Shri Bijan Padhi. The book was formally released by Smt. Premalata Panda, one of the senior most members of the Odia community in Denver. Mrs. Swayam Prava Rath was introduced by noted technocrat Shri Anand Mohanty in the presence of business woman and social activist Mrs. Sonali Sucharita Ahuja.