Bishnupada Sethi, Principal Secretary Odia Language, Literature and Culture has urged the intellectuals to extend their support for preparation of the vision document “Vikshit Odisha 2036 and Vikshit Bharat 2047: Culture and Heritage.”
A meeting was held today at the Lok Seva Bhawan Convention Center by the Department of Odia Language, Literature and Culture for the preparation of The meeting was chaired by Principal Secretary, Shri Sethi.
Principal Secretary Shri Sethi extended a warm welcome to all the distinguished participants and emphasized upon the importance of Odia language, literature, art, culture and heritage. He said, “Odisha is globally recognized for its Jagannath culture, art and architecture. The state’s tradition, folk arts, music, dance, drama and the culture of its tribal communities require extensive promotion and the department is committed to this cause”.
He further added that the vision document for Vikshit Odisha 2036 and Vikshit Bharat 2047 will prioritize culture and heritage highlighting how these elements will play a vital role in building a developed Odisha and India. Shri Sethi stressed upon the fact that continuous efforts are needed to ensure this vision is realized.
Prominent archaeologist and Professor Kishore K Basa, in his address, discussed how Odisha’s various historical tourism sites could gain international recognition. He also spoke about promoting Odissi music, the publication of Odia encyclopedia and enhancing the global reach of Odia films, folk dances and drama as well as traditional art forms like Pattachitra. He suggested that by integrating culture with our daily life and livelihood, Odisha and India can achieve their development goals.
The meeting also witnessed participation from several cultural scholars, literary figures, artists, painters, dancers, Padma Shri awardees, and recipients of the Sangeet Natak Akademi and Sahitya Akademi awards. They contributed their thoughts on how odia culture and heritage can contribute to the goals of Vikshit Odisha 2036 and Vikshit Bharat 2047. Discussions were held on organizing cultural forums at the district, state, and national levels, hosting poetry recitations, drama performances, constructing auditoriums, preserving forts, caves and historical sites, promoting literary discussions and enhancing the popularity of traditional festivals, local dance forms like Kandhei dance and Pattachitra art.
Other topics discussed included the establishment of cultural and heritage centers, libraries, documentation of Odia heritage and promoting cottage industries, weaving and handicrafts through exhibitions.
Bijay Ketan Upadhyay, Director, Odia Language, Literature and Culture emphasized the department’s continuous efforts in preserving and promoting Odia culture and heritage.
Dr.Upadhyay assured that the department would take action on the suggestions and discussions from today’s consultation meeting.