BJP Odisha Chapter Hosts Intellectual Meet to Foster Odia Language Development
Bhubaneswar, 18/11 – In a significant move to promote and protect the Odia language, the BJP Odisha Chapter organized a meeting of intellectuals at their state office near Rammandir Square, Bhubaneswar. The event was graced by the presence of Mr. Manmohan Samal, State President of BJP Odisha, as the Chief Guest. Padmashri Pandit Antaryami Mishra, a renowned scholar, served as the Chief Speaker.
Key Highlights from the Meeting
Introduction and Inauguration: Sri Barada Prasann Das, former Additional Director of the Public Relations Department and President of the Thinkers’ Club, introduced the guests. Mr. Sudarshan Nayak, convener of the Intellectual Cell, managed the stage and coordinated various activities.
Historical Significance of Odia Language: Pandit Mishra delivered a comprehensive speech highlighting the glorious history of Odia language. He emphasized that Odia’s classical status was awarded after rigorous verification of its past achievements, not through political influence. He also addressed attempts by neighboring states to undermine this status as desperate and baseless.
Call for Action: Pandit Mishra appealed to Mr. Samal and the new government to focus on appointing eligible individuals to the Utkarsha Bhasha Kendra (Language Institute) and taking necessary steps to protect and advance the language. He stressed that language is a progressive field requiring continuous research to make it technology-friendly and relevant in the present century.
Educational Reforms: Pandit Mishra advocated for improvements in applied aspects of Odia language education, encouraging students and scholars to pursue studies up to postgraduate levels. He also called for changes in state and national education policies to better support Odia language development.
Government Commitment: Mr. Manmohan Samal expressed his satisfaction with the large turnout of intellectuals and promised that the current government would take all necessary steps to meet their expectations. He assured coordination between central and state governments to fulfill long-held desires of citizens regarding Odia language promotion.
Active Participation by Intellectuals: The meeting saw active participation from intellectuals who suggested renaming districts according to correct linguistic norms, citing examples like Berhampur, Cuttack, and Balasore which have incorrect spellings.
Launch of “Madhur Bharati” Magazine: A magazine titled “Madhur Bharati” was unveiled and dedicated to Indian citizens during the event.
Vote of Thanks: Professor Purna Chandra Mallick offered the customary vote of thanks to conclude the meeting.
