Bhubaneswar: Eminent literature scholar and researcher Dr Nrusingha Charan Sarangi was conferred withVyasa Kabi Fakir Mohan Odia Bhasha Samman–2021 by the Odia Language, Literature and Culture Department here on Wednesday.
The award, recognising his outstanding contributions to the Odia language and literature through sustained academic research and notable literary works, was presented by Odisha’s Culture MinisterSuryabanshi Suraj during a special programme at the Odisha Research Centre. The event coincided with the birth anniversary of legendary Odia writer Vyasa Kabi Fakir Mohan Senapati, widely regarded as the father of modern Odia literature.
Along with the citation, Sarangi received a cash prize of Rs 5 lakh.
In his address, the Minister paid tributes to Fakir Mohan Senapati and extended warm congratulations to Dr Sarangi. He highlighted Senapati’s foundational role in modern Odia literature, noting how the author’s works captured social realities and everyday experiences of the people, continuing to inspire generations. “Fakir Mohan’s contributions have kept Odia literature vibrant and relevant even today,” he remarked.
In his acceptance speech, Sarangi reflected on the enduring influence of Fakir Mohan Senapati’s literary works, stating that they have been a constant source of inspiration in his academic journey. He also spoke on his comparative research on Nathaniel Hawthorne’s “The House of the Seven Gables” and Fakir Mohan Senapati’s “Chha Mana Atha Guntha”. He expressed his gratitude to the Odisha Sahitya Akademi and the Odia Language, Literature and Culture Department for the honour.
On the occasion, the Odisha Sahitya Akademi released two publications — ‘Rajakabi Gobindabhanja Granthabali’ and ‘Sahityika Janaki Ballabha Mohanty (Bharadwaj)’. Students of Utkal University of Culture presented a chorus music performance during the programme.
Noted writer and novelist Shantanu Acharya, Secretary of the Odia Language, Literature and Culture Department Dr Bijay Ketan Upadhyay, Special Secretary Deba Prasad Dash and Secretary of the Odisha Sahitya Akademi Dr Chandrasekhar Hota were present.
