National Seminar on occasion of Death Centenary of Swabhabkabi Gangadhar Meher inaugurated at CUO

The Central University of Odisha and the Gangadhar Meher University, Sambalpur jointly embarked upon observing the death centenary of Swabhabkabi Gangadhar Meher, Odisha’s iconic literary personality. A three day national seminar (18-20 July 2024) was organized on this occasion which was inaugurated on Thursday at the campus of the Central University of Odisha, Koraput.

The event was coordinated by the Odia Language & Literature Department, CUO under the convenership of Dr. Rudrani Mohanty, Associate Professor & HOD, DOLL.

The inaugural dais featured Prof Chakradhar Tripathi, VC, CUO, Prof N Nagaraju, VC, G M University, Sambalpur, Padmashri Prof Damayanti Besra, Prof Pradip Kumar Panda, Coordinator, Bhima Bhoi Research Centre, G M University and Dr. Rudrani Mohanty, Associate Professor & HOD, DOLL.

 The programme started with the auspicious lighting of the lamp by the dignitaries. Dr Mohanty started the proceedings by delivering the welcome address.

Prof Tripathi, in his inaugural deliberation, emphasized on the alluring power of literature to unify the society into a common thread and lead to creation of a prosperous nation. He lauded the life & work of Shri Gangadhar Meher and reminded us that the poet was a leader to revive our enslaved nation and also played an instrumental role in revival of an united Utkal. Prof Tripathi also stressed that Meher’s literary works and dedication are notable today to remove regionalism and build up a self-reliant Odisha.

Prof N Nagaraju, Chief Guest, in his speech pointed out that the poet’s works transgressed Odisha’s boundary and touched our nation and the world. It is vital to organize such joint efforts, he stressed. The keynote speech was delivered by Prof Besra, a recipient of Central Sahitya Academy Award in Santhali Language & Literature. She said that Meher’s work reflected pure & pristine values and our development and future depends on its discussion and research.

On this occasion, a book titled, ‘Gangadhar Meher: Alochana Sangraha’ was released .

The inaugural session was conducted by Dr Alok Baral, Sr. Assistant Professor, DOLL. The vote of thanks was proposed by Dr. Laxmipriya Behera, HOD, Odia Dep’t, G M University.

The seminar will conclude on 20 July 2024.