Bhubaneswar, May 11: The 21st edition of the Puri Heritage Walks (PHW) brought renewed attention to several neglected historical and cultural landmarks in Puri, as participants explored fading heritage sites and expressed concern over their deteriorating condition.
The heritage trail began at the nearly 300-year-old Maniram Matha near Marichikote Square on the Grand Road. Established by saint Maniram Das, the monastery belongs to the Ramanandi sect and is locally known as “Kakudia Matha.” According to Mahant Shri Abhiram Das, the Math continues the tradition of offering “Panti Bhoga” during Lord Jagannath’s ceremonial processions outside the temple. Festivals such as Janmashtami, Ram Navami, Jhulan Yatra, and Govardhan Puja are also observed there.
Participants later visited the historic Annapurna Theatre, one of Odisha’s oldest theatre institutions. The deteriorating condition of the iconic theatre deeply saddened visitors. Founded in 1933 as “Annapurna Natya Mandali” by late Somanath Das and later developed under Bauribandhu Mohanty, the theatre played a pioneering role in Odisha’s dramatic arts. Legendary productions such as “Kansa Kabata” and “Khai Kaudi” once drew huge audiences, while the venue also hosted the first screening of the first Odia film, Sita Bibaha.
Despite its glorious legacy, the theatre now survives under a fragile tin-roof structure with damaged galleries and neglected infrastructure. Theatre secretary Ramakrishna Mahapatra said restoration efforts have stalled despite receiving government assistance over the years.
The heritage walk later moved to a Solapith Craft Centre where national award-winning artisan Baidyanath Khuntia showcased intricate traditional artworks depicting Lord Jagannath, Konark Wheel replicas, ritual decorations, and mythological figures. However, the veteran craftsman expressed concern over declining public interest in traditional art and the financial struggles faced by artisans.
In the final phase, participants interacted with noted Odissi music guru Priyabrata Ray of Shyam Sundar Sangeet Mahavidyalaya. Discussions centred on the deep connection between Odissi music and Jagannath culture, particularly the tradition of rendering “Gita Govinda” during temple rituals.
Senior PHW member Prashanta Mishra also highlighted how legendary composers, including S.D. Burman, drew inspiration from Odissi and traditional Odia music for film compositions.
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