Author: Rinky S

In the rich tapestry of Indian literature, the contribution of regional authors and their works in capturing the local folklore and culture cannot be overstated. One such invaluable work is “Bangiya Lokasanskruti” by Asutosh Bhattacharya, translated into Odia by Narendranath Misra. Originally published in 1978 by the National Book Trust (NBT), this book has continued to serve as a crucial resource for those interested in the folklore and cultural heritage of Bengal. “Bangiya Lokasanskruti” delves deep into the folk culture of Bengal, shedding light on a plethora of traditional customs, rituals, songs, and stories that form the backbone of Bengali…

In the rich tapestry of Odia literature, few works stand as tall as “Bhababati” by Upendra Bhanja. Published in 1931, this poetic gem has enchanted readers for generations with its lyrical beauty, profound themes, and artistic mastery. Upendra Bhanja, often hailed as the “Adikabi” or the first poet of Odia literature, brings to life the spirit, culture, and ethos of Odisha through his magnificent verses in “Bhababati”. Upendra Bhanja, born in the late 17th century, is considered one of the most influential poets in Odia literature. His contributions extend beyond “Bhababati,” with other notable works including “Baidehisha Bilasa,” “Rasika Harabali,”…

In the ever-evolving tapestry of Indian literature, certain works act as bridges, tying together diverse regional threads into a cohesive cultural mosaic. One such illustrious thread is the Odia novel “Dinajae,” originally penned by the prolific Bengali writer Sirsendu Mukhopadhyay and later translated into Odia by the gifted Manmath Naik. Published in 1990, this profound work not only preserves the literary beauty of the original but also makes it accessible to a broader spectrum of readers. “Dinajae” profoundly explores the intricacies of human relationships, societal norms, and the passage of time. Mukhopadhyay, renowned for his storytelling prowess in Bengali literature,…

In the vast sea of Indian literature, where each wave carries the rich heritage of regional storytelling, Odia literature holds a significant yet often underrepresented space. One of the crowning jewels of this literary domain is the novel “Janaki” by Surendranath Satpathy, first published in 2006 and later reissued in its third edition in 2014. “Janaki” is more than just a novel; it is an evocative retelling of the age-old tale of Sita, embedded within the grand canvas of the Ramayana. Surendranath Satpathy’s adept storytelling transcends mere narration; it breathes new life into the timeless epic by painting Sita not…

Niranjan Behera’s “Kasmir Bharatar Abichhed Ansa,” published in 2009, stands as a remarkable contribution to Odia literature, offering profound insights into the intricate socio-political and historical aspects of Kashmir. This essay book delves into the multifaceted dynamics of the Kashmir issue, an area fraught with complexity and layered with historical significance. Behera’s work is an exposition that not only delineates the historical trajectory of Kashmir but also dissects its contemporary implications with an incisive analytical lens. The book is structured into sub-essays, each addressing a specific facet of the Kashmir conundrum, thereby providing readers with segmented yet comprehensive coverage. Through…

Niranjan Barik’s “Kendujhar Itihas,” now in its fifth edition published in 2015, stands as a monumental work in the realm of Odia literature. First released in 1998, this acclaimed essay book delves into the rich tapestry of Kendujhar’s history, culture, and heritage, offering readers a profound understanding of this distinctive region. “Kendujhar Itihas” meticulously chronicles the historical journey of Kendujhar, a district in the state of Odisha. Barik’s narrative is both scholarly and accessible, making it an invaluable resource for historians, academicians, and general readers alike. The book covers various eras, starting from ancient to medieval and modern Kendujhar, inserting…

In the rich literary landscape of Odia literature, few novels have left an indelible mark like Surendranath Satpathy’s “Krusna.” First published in 2004 and followed by a second edition in 2009, this intriguing narrative has captured the hearts and minds of countless readers. Combining elements of mythology, history, and psychology, Satpathy takes us on an exploratory journey through one of the most intriguing characters of Indian literature—Draupadi, from the epic Mahabharata. “Krusna” positions itself uniquely as a sub-novel, an imaginative re-exploration of the sacred text of the Mahabharata. Through this lens, Satpathy delves into the enigmatic persona of Draupadi, one…

In the diverse world of literature, certain works hold the power to transcend time, culture, and geography, resonating with readers across generations. One such inspiring work is “Narinka Samasyar Samadhan” (The Solutions to Women’s Problems) by Sabita Mahapatra, an Odia essay book published in 2016. The book is an evocative testament to women’s resilience and a powerful endorsement of their capacity to challenge and overcome the manifold problems they face. “Narinka Samasyar Samadhan” is a collection of essays that delves deep into the various issues women encounter in their daily lives. Whether it is societal pressure, gender discrimination, educational barriers,…

The rich tapestry of India’s diverse linguistic culture is vividly portrayed in “Oraon Bhasa Sikshan Pustika,” a seminal guidebook authored by Dhaneswar Kerketa and published in 2004. This book serves as an invaluable resource for anyone interested in the Oraon language, an essential sub-tribal dialect spoken by the Oraon community. It stands as both an educational tool and a cultural artifact, underscoring the importance of preserving indigenous languages and fostering linguistic diversity. “Oraon Bhasa Sikshan Pustika” translates to “Guidebook for Learning the Oraon Language,” and true to its name, it provides a structured foundation for learners—both native speakers and those…

Published in 2007, Anant Charan Sahu’s Odia essay book “Oraon Janajiban” is a profound exploration of the Oraon tribe, shedding light on their rich cultural, traditional, and social heritage. This comprehensive work is an embodiment of meticulous research and deep respect for the subject, providing readers with an immersive understanding of one of India’s prominent tribal communities. Anant Charan Sahu delves into the heart of the Oraon community, presenting a vivid portrayal of their daily lives, social structures, and belief systems. “Oraon Janajiban” is more than just an academic analysis; it is a journey through time, documenting how the Oraons…