Bhubaneswar: Eminent writer Bhima Prusty was presented prestigious Sarala Puraskar for 2023 at a function in Bhubaneswar on Thursday.
Prominent Marathi writer Dnyaneshwar Mulay presented the award, instituted by Indian Metals Public Charitable Trust (IMPaCT) for the best literary achievement, to Prusty for his novel ‘Jambuloka’. The award carries a copper plaque and Rs 5 lakh cash reward.
Along with this, Ila-Bansidhar Panda Kala Samman was presented to veteran painter Guru Benudhar Mahapatra and famous flutist Guru Mohini Mohan Patnaik, along with a cash prize of Rs 2 lakh and a plaque each.
Speaking at the function, IMPACT Trustee Paramita Panda said since Odia has been recognised as a classical language and sixth oldest language of the country, there has been an urgency for promotion of Odia at both public and private levels.
“Four decades ago, Sarala Puraskar was introduced by Dr Bansidhar Panda and Ila Panda for promotion of Odia literature, especially to attract and encourage new writers. The clear vision and continuous efforts of both of them have succeeded today in taking Odisha’s art and literature to a respectable height,” she said.
Mulay said that literature, which was his first love, has become his life. “All the secrets of life are told with poetry. A glimpse of all the changes of a writer can be found through his writing. Writing and reading give such energy that even when the body is tired, there is no need for any other entertainment,” he said.
As part of the event, a panel discussion on contemporary literature was held between Mulay and Prusty. It was moderated by poet Kedar Mishra. The poetry book ‘Rutu Uin Asuchi’ by Dnyaneshwar Mulay, published by ‘Timepass’ and translated by Pravasini Mahakud, was released on the occasion.
Hosted by actress Madhumita Mohanty, welcome music was performed by Adrut Children’s Home. Writers and artists from different parts of the state participated. Kishore Mohanty, head of IMFA Corporate Affairs, Saroj Bal, Chief Coordinator of Sarala Sachivalay, assisted in organising the event.
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