Promoting Odisha's rich heritage: A vision for 2036 and beyond

Bhubaneswar, Oct 4: A meeting was convened today at the Lok Seva Bhawan Convention Center by the Department of Odia Language, Literature and Culture to draft the vision document titled "Vikshit Odisha 2036 and Vikshit Bharat 2047: Culture and Heritage." The session was chaired by Principal Secretary Bishnupada Sethi.

Sethi warmly welcomed all attendees and underscored the significance of Odia language, literature, art, culture, and heritage. He remarked, "Odisha is globally recognized for its Jagannath culture, art, and architecture. We must promote the state’s rich traditions, folk arts, music, dance, drama, and tribal community cultures, and the department is dedicated to this mission."

The vision document aims to prioritize culture and heritage, emphasizing their crucial role in fostering a developed Odisha and India. Sethi highlighted the need for ongoing efforts to bring this vision to fruition.

Prominent archaeologist Professor Kishore K. Basa spoke about how Odisha's historical tourism sites could achieve international recognition. He advocated for promoting Odissi music, publishing an Odia encyclopedia, and enhancing the global presence of Odia films, folk dances, and traditional art forms like Pattachitra. He suggested that integrating culture into daily life could help Odisha and India meet their development objectives.

The meeting also featured contributions from cultural scholars, literary figures, artists, dancers, and Padma Shri awardees, who shared insights on how Odia culture and heritage can further the goals of Vikshit Odisha 2036 and Vikshit Bharat 2047. Discussions included organizing cultural forums at various levels, hosting poetry readings and drama performances, constructing auditoriums, preserving historical sites, and promoting local dance forms and traditional festivals.

Other topics addressed were the establishment of cultural and heritage centers, libraries, documentation of Odia heritage, and promoting cottage industries and handicrafts through exhibitions.

Director of the Culture Department, Bijay Ketan Upadhyay, reiterated the department's commitment to preserving and promoting Odia culture and heritage. He assured attendees that the department would act on the suggestions and discussions arising from today’s meeting.