Author: Rinky S
Kumar Sambhab, originally “Kumarasambhava” in Sanskrit, is a profound epic poem penned by the revered classical poet Kalidas. Known for his exquisite mastery over the Sanskrit language, Kalidas is often hailed as the Shakespeare of India. The poem exquisitely illustrates the birth of Kartikeya, also known as Kumar, the son of Lord Shiva and Parvati, who is destined to become the commander-in-chief of the gods. In 1995, this timeless classic was skillfully translated into Odia by renowned scholar Srinibas Guru, making it accessible to a wider audience by enriching the Odia literary landscape. The poem is divided into various cantos,…
In the cultural tapestry of Odisha, few deities command as much reverence and devotion as Lord Jagannath and His consort, Mahalaxmi. The book “Mahalaxmi – the Consort of Lord Jagannath” by Gouri Kumari Brahma, published in 2006, is a profound exploration into the divine partnership between these deities, presenting their tale with a seamless blend of mythological grandeur and historical context. The book intricately delves into sub-legends that contribute to the collective understanding of Mahalaxmi’s role not just as a consort but as a pivotal deity herself. Brahma adeptly navigates through various stories that highlight Mahalaxmi’s profound influence and unwavering…
Mahatirtha Jatri a seminal work by Narayan Panda, is a profound collection of stories deeply rooted in the spiritual and cultural ethos of Odisha, India. Published in 1997, this book highlights the essence of pilgrimage—both physical and metaphysical—through a tapestry of interwoven tales that explore the human quest for meaning, redemption, and inner peace. Panda’s “Mahatirtha Jatri” (The Pilgrim of the Great Pilgrimage) is structured as an anthology, with each story standing alone yet resonating with the others to form a cohesive spiritual narrative. The central theme revolves around the metaphor of pilgrimage, not limited to the physical act of…
Meghadutam or “The Cloud Messenger” is an epic poem penned by the legendary Sanskrit poet Kalidasa. This timeless piece, translated into the Odia language by esteemed translator Kamad Sahu and published in 2001, continues to perpetuate the beauty and classical essence of its origin while making it accessible to Odia readers. Kalidasa, often celebrated as the Shakespeare of India, is considered one of the greatest Sanskrit poets and playwrights. His works are renowned for their exquisite literary merit, rich imagery, and deep emotional resonance. “Meghadutam” stands out as one of his masterpieces, renowned for its lyrical beauty and poignant narrative.…
Saswat Bharatar Amar Gatha is a compelling anthology of Odia poems authored by the acclaimed Rabi Narayan Ray. Published in 2022, this collection, tailored to the imaginations of children, takes its young readers on an evocative journey through the rich tapestry of India’s cultural and historical heritage. Rabi Narayan Ray, a name synonymous with literary excellence in the Odia language, brings forth a vibrant compilation that captures the essence of India’s eternal glory. The title “Saswat Bharatar Amar Gatha” translates to “The Immortal Tales of Eternal India,” highlighting the timeless nature of the stories interwoven within the nation’s heritage. This…
Sikshabit Kisorchandra Panda, authored by Padmacharan Sahu and published in 2010, stands as a centennial homage to the extraordinary life and contributions of Kisorchandra Panda. Known for its depth and scholarly precision, the book serves as a sub-souvenir dedicated to celebrating the 100th anniversary of Panda’s life and work. A deep dive into the annals of history and education, it successfully paints a richly detailed portrait of a man who was instrumental in shaping the educational landscape of Odisha. The book is meticulously structured to offer both a comprehensive biography of Kisorchandra Panda and an exploration into his pedagogical philosophies.…
Sri Sri Gurugita is a profound Odia essay book authored by Chetananand Saraswati and published in 2015. This text stands as a significant contribution to the spiritual and philosophical literature in Odia, exploring timeless themes of guru-disciple relationships and spiritual teachings. Although originally written in a different language, the work has been adeptly translated to bring its wisdom to Odia-speaking audiences. The book comprises a series of essays, each diving deep into various aspects of the “Gurugita,” which is traditionally composed of 182 verses in the Skanda Purana. These essays are meticulously crafted to elucidate the meaning, context, and implications…
Studies in Medieval Religion and Literature of Orissa by Chittaranjan Das, published in 1951, is a seminal work that delves into the intricate tapestry of religious and literary traditions in medieval Orissa (now Odisha), a region in eastern India known for its rich cultural heritage. This book stands as a comprehensive exploration of the symbiotic relationship between religion, literature, and history during the medieval period, bringing to light the unique confluence of spiritual and literary expressions that defined the era. Das’s work meticulously examines the profound influence of various religious movements that flourished in medieval Orissa, particularly focusing on the…
The Greatness of Lord Jagannath by Gouri Kumari Brahma, published in 2005, is a profound and comprehensive examination of one of India’s most revered deities—Lord Jagannath. The book delves into the multifaceted nature of this enigmatic god, whose influence extends across religious, social, and cultural domains. With meticulous scholarship and deep devotion, Brahma provides readers with a richly textured understanding of Lord Jagannath’s significance in the spiritual landscape of Hinduism. The book is organized into several sub-essays, each exploring different aspects of Lord Jagannath’s grandeur. These sub-essays collectively weave a compelling narrative that not only highlights the deity’s divine attributes…
“The Story of Gandhi,” authored by R. Sankar and published in 1969, is a comprehensive and meticulously detailed Odia biography that delves into the life and legacy of one of history’s most influential figures, Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, more commonly known as Mahatma Gandhi. This biography offers a thorough exploration of Gandhi’s life, his philosophy, his struggles, and his triumphs, capturing the essence of a man who not only played a pivotal role in India’s fight for independence but also left an indelible mark on global civil rights movements. The book is structured to provide readers with an in-depth understanding of…