Bhubaneswar: In anticipation of the first-ever Biswa Odia Bhasa Sammilani (World Odia Language Conference), scheduled for February 3, senior officers of the Odisha government engaged in a productive discussion with eminent linguists and litterateurs on Tuesday.
R. Balkrishnan, Chief Advisor to the Chief Minister, addressed the meeting, highlighting the significance of the upcoming Sammilani. He emphasized that the conference would delve into the past, present, and future of the Odia language. Seeking cooperation from linguists and litterateurs, Balkrishnan underscored the unique nature of the conference, being held for the first time.
Sujata Rout Kartikeyan, Secretary of the Odia Language, Literature, and Culture department, informed the attendees that the conference aligns with the decision of the Culture Cabinet, guided by the Chief Minister’s advice.
To enhance the promotion of the Odia language, the government is actively working on establishing libraries in each panchayat, she announced. Additionally, women who have made commendable contributions to Odia literature and culture will be felicitated during the conference.
Linguists, litterateurs, and classical dance experts present at the meeting provided valuable suggestions. These included incorporating ‘jhoti’ (rangoli) featuring Odia alphabets in educational institutions, popularizing ancient literature, publishing textbooks on contemporary Odia literature, promoting children’s literature, and translating books from other languages into Odia. The collaborative efforts aim to enrich and celebrate the vibrant linguistic and literary heritage of Odisha during the upcoming conference.