Bhubaneswar: The Fifth Sukubina Srashta Smruti Award was conferred upon eminent Odia writer Pushpanjali Nayak at a special literary gathering held at the Buddha Mandir auditorium in Bhubaneswar.
Instituted in memory of the late Sudhir Kumar Bijayendra Narayan, a generous patron of literature, art and culture, the award is presented annually on the occasion of his birth anniversary to recognise distinguished contributions to Odia literature. This year’s honour was bestowed on Pushpanjali Nayak for her remarkable work in Odia fiction.
The award carries a cash prize of Rs. 50,000, along with a citation and memento.
The ceremony was graced by eminent writer Ram Chandra Behera as the Chief Guest. Speaking on the occasion, he observed that the characters in Nayak’s writing appear vividly alive as they search for their own truth in the deepest recesses of human compassion.
Renowned writer Dash Benhur, the founder of the initiative, noted that the most meaningful tribute to individuals devoted to literature, culture and friendship lies in continuing their ideals with sincerity and commitment. Distinguished writer Gourahari Das described Nayak’s literature as not merely a proclamation of truth, but an exploration and discovery of it.
Accepting the honour, Pushpanjali Nayak remarked that the affection and appreciation of readers remain the highest reward for any writer.
Among those present on the occasion were Prof. Jatindra Kumar Nayak, trustee Pradeep Kumar Biswal, and several writers, intellectuals and lovers of literature who gathered to pay homage to the memory of the late Sudhir Kumar Bijayendra Narayan, fondly remembered as Japanese Babu.
The programme was organised under the supervision of trustee Purabi Das, and the proceedings were gracefully conducted by Swayamprabha Rath.
About the Awardee
Born in 1955 in Jaleswar in Balasore district, Pushpanjali Nayak is a widely respected name in Odia fiction. She has written extensively in both short stories and novels. Her notable works include Purbaraga, Ashwanadir Srota, Kapatapasha, Matira Praharimane, and Subarnarekhar Pruthibi, among others.
For her contributions to literature she has received several recognitions, including the Jhankar Short Story Award, the Fakir Mohan Sahitya Award, and the Sucharita Short Story Award. After completing her postgraduate studies in English literature from Utkal University, she served as a senior English teacher at the DRDO Higher Secondary School in Chandipur until her retirement in 2015.
Her most recent collection of short stories is titled Shunya Changudi.
