Litterateurs Recall Odia Poet Prasanna Mishra’s Contributions On Birth Anniversary

Bhubaneswar: Litterateurs paid tributes to eminent Odia poet Prasanna Mishra by recalling his literary creations on the occasion of his 83rd birth anniversary on Monday.

Speaking at a literary meet, “Phalguna Asara”, organised in Bhubaneswar on the occasion, poet Ashutosh Parida said Mishra creations have enriched every dimension of Odia literature, though he was widely read as a poet. His novels, short stories, children literature, plays and research works also reflect his unconventional writing style.

“His decision to leave engineering and study literature at Viswa Bharati, Santiniketan has proved a boon for his literary talent,” added Parida.

In his speech, Bharat Behera said Mishra’s poetic excellence will enrich Odia literature for all time to come. In his popular poetry collection ‘Truck Dalare Sanatan’, he had described the lives of poor daily labourers. “He believed in not following a particular tradition but creating his own writing style. His progressive writings and concern for ordinary people will make him immortal,” he added.

Snehaprava Das threw light on his novel ‘Badhi Panira Danta’ which was originally written in 1960s. “Despite continuous floods in coastal Odisha, there is not much literature available on this. While translating Mishra’s novel, I experienced a profound connection with the portrayal of a nine-year-old girl grappling with the devastations wrought by the river water,” she said.

Kedar Mishra said the poet’s ‘Manikara Priya’ collection has been very popular among his followers. He is another trend setter in Odia modern poetry.

His poems were recited by Hiranmayee Mishra, Saqti Mohanty and Pinaki Singh. Mishra’s daughter and well-known storyteller Prachitara gave the welcome address.

Among others, Kailash Patnaik, Giribala Mohanty, Sarojini Sahu, Golap Manjari Kar, Asit Mohanty. Jayanti Rath, Kanak Manjari Sahu, Swapna Mishra and Madhumita Mohanty were present.