Bhubaneswar: Shri Pankaj Lochan Mohanty, Chairman and Managing Director of the MGM Group has been lauded as “Saviour Of A Dying Art-KANSA’.
The air filled with a sense of cultural reverence and celebration as the MGM Foundation launched “Kansa – Forging Tradition, Shaping Futures,” a beautiful tribute to the enduring bell metal craft of Odisha.
The book launch ceremony, held at Hotel Crown, was graced by dignitaries, including Deputy Chief Minister Shri Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo and several eminent speakers.
They unanimously lauded the efforts of Shri Pankaj Lochan Mohanty, Chairman and Managing Director of the MGM Group, for his pivotal role in preserving this unique and once-dying art form.
In a powerful and moving address, Deputy Chief Minister Shri Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo described Shri Mohanty as a true “saviour of a dying art.”
The speakers, including editors of leading newspapers like Dharitri and Orissa Post, highlighted how Shri Mohanty’s deep roots in Odisha and his unwavering commitment have provided a lifeline to the traditional kansa craft and its artisans.
Bell metal, known for its distinct golden hue and resonant sound, has long been an integral part of Odia households and rituals. However, with the advent of modern goods, the art form faced the risk of fading into oblivion.
“This book is not just a publication; it is a promise,” said a guest speaker, “a promise that we will protect our heritage and empower the hands that shape it.”
The book “Kansa – Forging Tradition, Shaping Futures” serves as both a historical document and a forward-looking vision, chronicling the journey of kansa from its ancient origins to its modern-day resurgence. It honours the skill and dedication of the artisans who, with pride and precision, continue to shape these timeless creations.
Shri Siddhartha Mohanty, Director of MGM Minerals, spoke passionately about the MGM Foundation’s vision. “Our foundation believes in honouring heritage with vision,” he stated. “By documenting and celebrating the kansa craft, we aim to build a sustainable future for its artisans, ensuring that their invaluable skills are passed down through generations.”
The book launch event underscored a critical message: cultural preservation is not merely about looking back but about actively building a future where tradition can thrive.
The launch of this book marks a significant moment for Odisha’s cultural landscape. It shines a much-needed spotlight on the skilled artisans and the importance of corporate and individual initiatives in protecting and promoting indigenous crafts. The tribute to kansa and its masters is a powerful reminder that some traditions are simply too valuable to be lost.