Bhubaneswar: Shri Pankaj Lochan Mohanty, a towering figure in Odisha’s industrial landscape and the Chairman of ASSOCHAM Odisha State Development Council, is being lauded for his profound and sustained commitment to the state’s art and cultural heritage. This unwavering support, driven by the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives of his MGM Group, positions him as a true captain of industry who champions Odia identity.
Utkal Chamber of Commerce & Industry Limited (UCCIL) recently extended its heartfelt appreciation for Shri Mohanty’s passion and dedication, highlighting his role as an Additional Director of UCCIL. UCCIL’s X handle noted that his dedication to the preservation and promotion of Odia art and culture is truly commendable.
A recent and significant example of this commitment was Shri Mohanty’s presence at the prestigious Kelucharan Mahapatra Award ceremony. His attendance alongside legendary figures like Prasanta Nanda and renowned Odissi guru Shri Ratikanta Mahapatra, son of the late maestro, Guru Kelucharan Mahapatra, underscores the immense respect he commands and the importance he places on such events. UCCIL pointed out that his support serves as an inspiration for all those who aspire to contribute to the preservation of Odisha’s rich cultural legacy.
Shri Mohanty’s contributions are not merely about public appearances; they are a deeply rooted and well-structured effort carried out through the MGM Group’s CSR initiatives. The MGM Foundation, the Group’s philanthropic arm, has been at the forefront of this endeavor, providing substantial financial and organizational backing to cultural events and projects. A prime example is MGM Minerals’ major sponsorship of the annual Guru Kelucharan Mohapatra Award Festival, a cornerstone of Odisha’s cultural calendar. This sustained support provides a vital platform for artists and helps ensure the long-term viability of classical art forms like Odissi.
Beyond the performing arts, Shri Mohanty’s vision extends to the preservation of traditional crafts. He has been hailed as a “Saviour of a Dying Art” for his crucial role in revitalizing the traditional bell metal craft of Kansa. The MGM Foundation’s initiative, including the launch of the book “Kansa – Forging Tradition, Shaping Futures,” has provided a lifeline to artisans and brought much-needed attention to this unique craft.
This multifaceted approach to CSR, which also includes significant contributions to sports through his presidency of the Odisha Cricket Association, showcases a holistic vision for the state’s development. Shri Mohanty and the MGM Group are proving that industrial success and cultural preservation can go hand in hand, creating a model for corporate leadership that is both economically prosperous and socially responsible.