Bhubaneswar: Utkal University’s Department of English organised a national seminar themed Indian Textual Traditions: Native and Hybrid Engagements on February 28 and March 1.
The seminar explored the ancient and contemporary Indian narrative techniques and genres and their engagement with English literature.
Keynote speaker Prof. K C Beliappa, former vice-chancellor of Rajiv Gandhi Central University, Arunachal Pradesh and former professor of English, Mysore University inaugurated the seminar and released the department’s annual Newsletter along with the Souvenir and Book of Abstracts.
Prof. Beliappa was all praise for the Utkal University’s English department as he looked back on his student days. His address focussed on Indian Poetics and insightful critical reviews of a critic like C D Narsimhaia.
Prof. Asim Ranjan Parhi, Convener and Head, appreciated India’s literary tradition and its contribution to enriching the scope of contemporary literature.
“As literature departments of India, we must be vigilant to appreciate our own origins first. What would then result is a culmination of cultures and traditions lasting generations,” Parhi said.
Pradosh Mohanty, the secret benefactor of the department, spoke about his attempts to preserve and continue Indian traditions in his literary pursuits.
Dr S Deepika, faculty member of the department welcomed the guests and spoke on the essence of the idea behind the seminar, while Pulastya Jani delivered the vote of thanks for the ceremony.
