Heritage Walks Can Rekindle Interest in History, Say Experts at Dhenkanal Event

Dhenkanal: Emphasising the need to preserve cultural legacy in the face of rapid modernisation, speakers at the third anniversary of Dhenkanal Heritage Walks (DHW) highlighted the role of heritage walks in fostering a deeper connection with history and tradition.

Noted historian Kharavela Mohanty said history forms the foundation of civilisation and warned that cultural wealth reflected in temples, monasteries, food, clothing, and traditions is at risk of fading away. He stressed that losing touch with history could lead to the erosion of identity and heritage.

The event, held at Surya Mandap, was chaired by Deepak Samantarai, convener of Cuttack Heritage Walks. In his address, he underlined that promoting heritage walks can ignite curiosity and passion for history among people and strengthen community engagement with cultural roots.

Retired bureaucrat and history researcher Tapan Kumar Satapathy spoke about the historical evolution of Dhenkanal, highlighting the influence of Shaiva, Shakta, Vaishnava, and Mahima traditions. He described the region as a unique blend of Dravidian and Aryan cultural elements.

On the occasion, heritage groups from Cuttack, Jagatsinghpur, Puri, and Baripada were honoured with the “Aithihya Sarathi” title. Eminent personalities, including Odissi dance guru Sudhakar Sahu and Paika martial art guru Harihar Sahu, were conferred with the “Aithyha Shri” award.

Communities preserving traditional crafts were also recognised, including the puppetry village Raidihi, brass utensil makers from Indipur, and Dokra artisans of Sadeibereni.

DHW convener Suresh Prasad Mishra presented the annual report and welcomed participants, while Smitali Sahu coordinated the programme. The event began with a traditional puppetry performance by artists from Raidihi, followed by exhibitions of Dokra handicrafts and brassware.

More than 160 participants from across Odisha attended the event, reflecting growing interest in heritage-based initiatives and community-led cultural preservation.