Of Hazy Memory And Inadequate History

Communal memory is more powerful than history. Our ancient maritime glory lives on in collective memory through the celebration of Bali Jatra. It may have been reduced to rituals to some extent and fallen prey to commercialisation but the fact that it is celebrated by Odias all over the country with zest is proof that the chapter is etched deep in our consciousness. History has thrown up enough evidence. Scattered they might be but good enough to be make a vigorous base of our identity and a strong statement about who we are. Unfortunately, not much effort has gone into writing our history from our own perspective. This could be the reason why Odias have a weak sense of identity.