Bhubaneswar: The inaugural edition of Odia magazine ‘Odisha Bibhaba’ was formally dedicated to its readers at Jayadev Bhawan here on Thursday. Distinguished guests who graced the occasion, organised by Odisha Sanskruti Surakhya Trust, voiced serious concern over the current state of the Odia language.
Padma Shri Devi Prasanna Pattanaik attended the function as the inaugurator and chief guest. Other distinguished attendees included linguist Dr. Basant Panda; writer Professor Sanghamitra Mishra; Odisha Sahitya Akademi Secretary Dr. Chandrasekhar Hota; senior journalist and columnist Dhirendra Nath Das, Utkalmani Gopabandhu Das’ grandson; and senior journalist and columnist Prabhu Kalyan Mohapatra, Kantakabi Laxmikanta Mohapatra’s grandson. The function was presided over by Odisha Sahitya Akademi award-winning poet, storyteller, and writer Rakshak Nayak.
After the lighting the lamp ceremony, several individuals who have continuously worked for the cause of the Odia language were felicitated. Among them were former MLA and writer Sipra Mallick; Sajjan Sharma, president of Biswa Odia Paribar; language activist Pavitra Maharatha; senior journalist Pradeep Pattanayak; Professor Debilal Mishra; and Dr. Satyanarayana Mishra.
Speakers observed that the use of Odia within Odisha is steadily declining, while the influence and usage of other languages are increasing. They emphasized that if Odias develop deeper respect and affection for their mother tongue, the language will become stronger, richer, and more vibrant.
Addressing the gathering as the chief guest, Padma Shri Devi Prasanna Pattanaik expressed concern over the actual condition of Odia in the state. He stressed that every Odia-speaking person should use their mother tongue more frequently in daily life. While there is nothing wrong with learning or speaking other languages, he said, regular use of one’s mother tongue is equally essential.
“Our identity’s foundation is our mother tongue. When our identity grows stronger, our heritage too becomes more glorious and respected,” he remarked.
While senior journalist Ashok Kumar Sahoo, the organizer of the event, delivered the welcome address, journalist Swapna Kumar Sahu conducted the programme and delivered the vote of thanks.
