Bhubaneswar: The Odisha Research Center Auditorium in Gajapati Nagar turned into a vibrant seat of intellectual and artistic discourse as the Odisha Craft Odyssey (OCO) hosted its landmark Symposium on Art, Craft, and Ethnography on September 20, 2026.
Bringing together a diverse spectrum of session participants, including artists, researchers, curators, designers, and institutional voices, the event delved deep into the living traditions, material culture, and ethnographic narratives of Odisha. The day-long symposium served as a critical platform to challenge conventional boundaries between fine arts and traditional craftsmanship, refocusing attention on the living heritage and artisanal wisdom deeply rooted in the state’s cultural landscape.
Through a series of engaging panel discussions, participants explored key thematic areas ranging from community-based artistic practice and local knowledge systems to institutional frameworks connecting anthropology with creative expression. The event concluded with a shared vision to continuously document, celebrate, and elevate the indigenous artisanal communities whose hands keep the timeless narrative of Odia heritage alive.
The symposium was made possible through the generous support of MGM Foundation, Bhubaneswar. Ace philanthropist Shri Pankaj Lochan Mohanty, CMD of MGM Group, has been a driving force behind the initiative, demonstrating an unwavering commitment and vision toward amplifying Odisha’s art, craft, and ethnographic legacies. Under his benevolent patronage, MGM Foundation continues to champion cultural preservation alongside community empowerment, ensuring that traditional knowledge systems find a meaningful and sustained platform in the contemporary world.
Shri Pankaj Lochan Mohanty is a prominent Odia industrialist, philanthropist, and sports administrator who serves as the Chairman and Managing Director of the MGM Group. Under his visionary leadership, MGM Minerals Limited expanded from sustainable iron ore mining into a diversified business conglomerate with interests spanning steel production, renewable energy, textiles, hospitality, and healthcare. Beyond his corporate achievements, he serves as the guiding force behind the MGM Foundation, driving substantial social impact through initiatives in healthcare development, education, community welfare, and socio-cultural preservation.
His generous patronage consistently supports regional arts, crafts, and ethnographic research across Odisha. Additionally, he plays a significant role in sports governance within the state, having served in key administrative positions, including President of the Odisha Cricket Association.