Puri Heritage Walks marks first annual day with tribute to culture and preservation efforts

Bhubaneswar, Aug 11: Puri Heritage Walks celebrated its first annual day at Sanskruti Bhavan, Puri, marking a year of dedicated efforts to promote and preserve the rich heritage of Sankha Kshetra—one of Hinduism’s four sacred “dhamas” and the abode of the divine Trinity.

Renowned sculptor and Padma Vibhushan awardee Sudarshan Sahoo graced the occasion as chief guest, emphasising the importance of heritage awareness for future generations. Historian Anil Dhir, in his keynote address, highlighted the threats facing heritage monuments and the urgent need for preservation measures. INTACH State convener Biswajit Mohanty spoke on the objectives of the heritage walk, while Udaygiri Foundation President JP Jagdev discussed digitising heritage initiatives. Mathadhish Swami Subhananda Ji Maharaj of Mahiprakash Math stressed safeguarding historical facts.

The Hindi edition of Heritage of Nabakalebara by Surendra Kumar Mishra was released, followed by the presentation of the ‘Aitihya Ratna,’ ‘Aitihya Shri,’ and ‘Aitihya Bandhu’ awards to distinguished heritage workers from across Odisha.

Meritorious students from school-level heritage competitions were also felicitated. The event, coordinated by heritage researcher Pandit Sidharth Acharya and journalist Rajashree Sahoo, concluded with the release of the souvenir Aitihya Gabakshya, celebrating a milestone year in Puri’s heritage journey.