Bhubaneswar: Poets, scholars and activists came together to celebrate the power of verse while shedding light on the significance of Down Syndrome to mark World Poetry Day and World Down Syndrome Day.
Organised by Ketaki Foundation Trust in collaboration with Swabhiman, the event at Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan here began with a warm welcome by Rabindra K Swain.
A session on World Poetry Day explored the relevance of poetry in today’s world, highlighted by a tribute to the esteemed poet Ramakanta Rath, honouring his enduring literary contributions.
A session on World Down Syndrome Day followed, where Pabitra Mohan Kar emphasised the importance of awareness and inclusion, providing valuable perspectives on the challenges and support systems needed for individuals with Down Syndrome.
There were recitations by noted poets Ashutosh Parida, Saqti Mohanty, Saroj Bal, Subhasree Subhasmita Mishra, Sangram Jena, Kedar Mishra, Badal Mohanty, Swapna Mishra, Basudev Sunani, Pabitra Mohan Kar, Ramakanta Samantaray, Srisikta Suvadarsini Nayak, Manua Das, Bharati Parida and Manasi Rout. They recited verses, paying homage to Ramakanta and celebrating the art of poetry.
The event concluded with the release of ‘Subhadranka Aakhi’ penned by eminent writer, poet and author Jagannath Prasad Das.