Bhubaneswar, Ap 10: On the ninth day of celebration of Odia Pakhya, an outstanding effort to popularize Odia literature and reading of books was organizedi.e.the "Let's Buy a Book" campaign at Nabarangpur Mahavidhyalaya at Nabarangpur.
This drive was conducted in association with the Department of Odia Language, Literature, and Culture, and the Higher Education Department, with an emphasis on the role of literature in maintaining and spreading Odia culture. The event promoted the people of Odisha to purchase and read Odia language books, thus strengthening their roots in the state's rich literary tradition.
The key message of the campaign was straightforward yet profound: by purchasing and reading Odia books, we promote the development of local literature and encourage local writers. The function was attended with book exhibitions, authors' meet-and-greets, and lectures on the relevance of Odia literature in the current digital era. Enthusiasm among attendees, particularly youth, was widespread, indicative of increased interest in reading local literature and greater respect for the Odia language and culture.
This activity was just one among many initiatives that were part of the larger celebration of "Odia Pakhya," a month-long series of cultural events and awareness programs. The campaign was not only for Odia books but also for the wider array of the state's cultural wealth.
In the coming days, Odisha will continue to present its rich culture. On April 10, "Folk Art Day – Honoring Senior Artists and Kalagram Visit" will honor Odisha's rich folk art heritage. On this day, veteran artists will be honored, and the general public will be given an opportunity to visit Kalagram, a cultural complex which is focused on preserving and popularizing folk arts.
On April 11, a young writers' conference will be organized by Odisha Sahitya Academy along with the Department of Higher Education, Sports and Youth Services to give young authors a platform where they can discuss with their elderly counterparts.
At the same time, on April 13, the "Traditional Food Cultivation Campaign – 'Our Taste, Our Food'" will highlight the significance of traditional food systems and sustainable agriculture. The Panchayati Raj and Housing and Urban Development Departments will host this event.
The big Odia New Year celebration on April 14 will be the culmination of this cultural extravaganza, where people will join together to celebrate the rich culture, language, and heritage of Odisha with enthusiasm and gusto.
Overall, the activities scheduled for "Odia Pakhya" are the best examples of Odisha's commitment to its preservation and promotion of its distinctive cultural identity.
