Bhubaneswar: Dr Sitakanta Mohapatra, renowned poet and recipient of Padma Bibhushan and Jnanpith Award, conferred the first Sukubina Srashta Memorial Award for excellence in Odia literature on Dr Padmaja Paul, well-known novelist and short story writer, on Thursday at Rotary Bhavan in Odisha’s capital. Dr Mohapatra, who was the chief guest, inaugurated the event by traditional lighting of the lamp.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr Mohapatra praised the Sukubina Srashta Memorial Trust in promoting the literature and culture of Odisha and the legacy of the late Sudhir Kumar Bijayendra Narayan, popularly known as ‘Japani Babu’.
The Trust was set up in the memory of ‘Japani Babu’ after his death in July last year to promote literature, art and culture of Odisha.
Dr Mohapatra compared ‘Japani Babu’s’ short stories to that of Anton Chekov. He also spoke of his personal connection with him.
Jitendra Narayan Dash (Dash Benhur), popular storyteller and littérateur, spoke on the legacy of ‘Japani Babu’ and the objectives of the Trust. He described Dr Paul as one of the most deserving yet overlooked writers in the literary scene today.
Prof Jatindra Kumar Nayak, distinguished critic and writer, presided over the programme. He said it was a fitting tribute to Dr Paul to be honoured by the legendary poet. He described the gathering as the ‘Priya Paridhi’ (Intimate Circle), one of the short story collections of ‘Japani Babu’.
Dr Goura Hari Das, Managing Editor, Sambad Group, and award-winning novelist, spoke about ‘Japani Babu’s’ short stories and lauded his contribution to Odia literature.
Pradeep Kumar Biswal, member, REDA, and distinguished poet, also spoke on the occasion and said it was a fitting tribute to Dr Paul to be honored by Dr Mohapatra.
Sidharth Das, trustee and younger son of Bijayendra Narayan, spoke on the genesis of the Trust. Purabi Das, trustee and daughter, cast the vote of thanks.
The recipient was selected by an eminent panel of judges and trustees, Jitendra Narayan Dash (Dash Benhur), Prof Jatindra Kumar Nayak, Dr Goura Hari Das and Pradeep Biswal.
The first volume of ‘Japani Babu’s’ complete works ‘Japani Babanka Katha Samahara’, published by Paschima Publications, was released on the occasion.
The award has been set up by Bijayendra Narayan’s family. Bandana Narayan, his wife, is the Managing Trustee.
