Odisha CM launches digital edition of Madhusudan Rao’s Barnabodha

Bhubaneswar, Feb 2: Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi highlighted the significance of Bhaktakavi Madhusudan Rao’s Barnabodha, stating that at a time when Odisha and the Odia language were striving for identity and nationalism, the book helped restore the state’s cultural and literary pride.

He made these remarks during the launch of the reprinted edition and digital version of Barnabodha, organized by the Odia Language, Literature, and Culture Department.

The state government has set a goal to print 10,000 copies of the book this year. Speaking at the event held at Krushi Bhawan in Bhubaneswar, the Chief Minister emphasized that re-publishing Barnabodha on Madhusudan Rao’s birth anniversary is a fitting tribute to the revered poet. He praised the book for its simple yet effective approach to teaching Odia alphabets, colors, consonants, words, and sentence formation to young learners.

Majhi underscored the importance of mother, motherland, and mother tongue, asserting that only an ignorant person would disregard them. He noted that Barnabodha used relatable examples from nature and daily life, making it widely accepted and cherished in Odia households. First published in 1895, the book saw eight editions within just six years due to its immense popularity.

Reflecting on its lasting impact, he remarked that Barnabodha remains unmatched in teaching pure Odia and aligns with modern “Joyful Teaching & Learning” methods, which emphasize interactive education using pictures and toys. He credited Madhusudan Rao as a pioneer of this approach, as the book simplifies learning through short verses.

Calling Barnabodha an eternal masterpiece that has shaped Odisha’s education system for over 130 years, the Chief Minister acknowledged the efforts of linguists and writers, including Kailash Chandra Tikayat Ray, Dash Benhur, Baishnab Charan Mohanty, Haraprasad Mishra, and Santosh Kumar Rath, in publishing the new illustrated edition.