Bhubaneswar: The Odia Language, Literature & Culture Department held a high-level review meeting under the chairmanship of Culture Minister Suryabanshi Suraj. Several key decisions were taken during the meeting to promote Odia culture and literature.
One of the significant decisions is the restoration and development of ‘Pather Puri’, the ancestral residence of Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore in Puri, into a museum dedicated to the great poet’s memory.
The department also announced plans to set up a theme pavilion during the upcoming Bali Yatra in Cuttack, starting on November 5. The pavilion will showcase the works of eminent Odia writers and their literary contributions. Indonesia will be invited as the Partner Country for this year’s event.
Under the ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat’ initiative, an Indian state will also be invited as the Partner State. Additionally, cultural troupes from several South Asian countries will be invited to participate and showcase their traditional performances.
Furthermore, the department has decided to provide financial assistance to the Kendrapada Gajalaxmi Puja, following similar support extended to Dhenkanal’s celebration. Additionally, the department will expedite the process of filling vacant posts in various institutions, including Culture University, Utkal Sangeet Mahavidyalaya, Bibhuti Kanungo College of Art and Crafts, and Government College of Art and Crafts, Khalikote.
The State Archaeology will undertake the restoration and conservation work of the Kalidas Temple in Kendrapada district.
That apart, the Odisha Bridge & Construction Corporation (OBCC) has also been directed to speed up the construction work of the Odia Asmita Bhawan near Sainik School in Bhubaneswar. These initiatives aim to promote Odia culture, literature, and heritage, and provide opportunities for cultural exchange and development.
