Gopalakrusna Padabali by Raj Kisor Misra, edited and published in 2004, is a significant contribution to the literary heritage of Odisha. This book revisits the timeless verses of Gopalakrusna Patnaik, an eminent poet whose works have left an indelible mark on Odia literature. The anthology encapsulates Padabali (a series of lyrical and devotional poems) that beautifully blend expressions of love, devotion, and spirituality.
Gopalakrusna Padabali stands out for its poetic richness and profound depth, offering readers a journey through intricate expressions of devotion and emotions. Raj Kisor Misra’s editorial work ensures that the essence of Patnaik’s compositions is preserved while making them accessible to contemporary readers.
The poems in this collection primarily revolve around the themes of love and devotion towards Lord Krishna, capturing the poet’s spiritual quest and intense personal devotion. The narrative often invokes the pastoral life and divine playfulness associated with Krishna, painting vivid imagery that evokes a profound sense of bhakti (devotion).
The book not only captures the lyrical beauty of Patnaik’s verses but also provides insightful commentary and context, which are indispensable for appreciating the depth of these classical works. Misra’s meticulous editing shines through his efforts to retain the original nuances of the Odia language, making the book an authentic representation of Patnaik’s literary genius.
Each poem, or padabali, is characterized by its distinct rhythm and melody, often set to classical music forms, which was a hallmark of Gopalakrusna Patnaik’s style. His use of allegory, metaphor, and vivid descriptive language brings to life the cultural and spiritual world of his time. Readers find themselves transported to an era where poetry was not just a form of artistic expression, but a means of experiencing divine love and transcendence.
The sub-poem section provided by the Odisha Society of the Americas (OSA) delves deeper into individual works of Patnaik, exploring the underlying messages and the cultural context that influenced his writing. This supplementary section enhances the reader’s understanding of the socio-religious milieu of Odisha during Patnaik’s era and offers a comprehensive appreciation of his contributions to Odia literature.
The book serves as both a scholarly resource and a devotional guide, making it valuable for researchers, students, and general readers alike. The intricate layers of meaning embedded in Patnaik’s poems are unraveled through Misra’s insightful notes and annotations, which help demystify the classical idioms and references that might otherwise elude modern audiences.
In essence, Gopalakrusna Padabali by Raj Kisor Misra is a treasure trove of Odia poetry, celebrating the enduring legacy of Gopalakrusna Patnaik’s devotional literature. It is a meticulously curated collection that bridges the past and the present, offering timeless verses that continue to inspire and enchant readers. This 2004 publication is a testament to the richness of Odia literary tradition and a tribute to one of its most beloved poets, ensuring that Patnaik’s evocative and spiritually uplifting verses continue to resonate through the ages.
Books Info
| Books name | Gopalakrusna Padabali/ଗୋପାଳକୃଷ୍ଣ ପଦାବଳୀ |
| Author | Raj Kisor Misra, Ed. |
| No Of pages | 402 |
| Publisher | Orissa Sahitya Ecademy |
| Publication | 2004 |
| Printed At | Ethena Books |
| Distributor | NA |