Damanjodi, May 27: The 33rd Saraswat Samaroha (Literary Convention) of Rastradeep Prasara Samiti was celebrated with great enthusiasm and cultural fervour on Monday evening at the Open Air Theatre in Sector-1, Damanjodi. The event brought together distinguished academicians, literary personalities, social workers, teachers, students, and residents of the industrial township in a vibrant celebration of literature, culture, and national values.
The annual literary gathering, which has become one of the most anticipated socio-cultural events of the region, was organised under the direct supervision and guidance of the President of the Rastradeep Prasar Samiti, Damanjodi, Engineer Purushottam Mahanta. The programme reflected the organisation’s long-standing commitment towards the promotion of literary consciousness, social harmony, education, and cultural heritage in the tribal-dominated region of Koraput district.
The convention was graced by several eminent personalities from academic, industrial, and literary circles. Chief General Manager of Environment, Township Maintenance and Total Quality Management Department of National Aluminium Company Limited, Sanjay Kumar Pattnaik, attended the programme as the Chief Guest. Vice-Chancellor of Central University of Odisha, Professor Dr. Narasingha Charan Panda, delivered the keynote address as the Chief Speaker. Former editor and senior associate of the Rastradeep magazine, Dhruva Charan Behera, joined the occasion as the Guest of Honour.
The evening began on a solemn and spiritually uplifting note with ceremonial worship before the portrait of Bharat Mata. The atmosphere of devotion and cultural pride was further enriched by Vedic chanting performed by the Brahmacharis of Adim Gurukul Ashram, Kunduli. Their traditional recitation created an ambience deeply rooted in Indian spiritual heritage and cultural values.
Adding colour and melody to the inaugural session, students of Mathalput Saraswati Sishu Vidya Mandir presented the patriotic song “Vande Mataram” along with a welcome song under the guidance of music teacher Brundaban Khandual. Their disciplined and soulful performance received warm appreciation from the audience and set the tone for the rest of the programme.
Welcoming the guests and participants, Secretary of the Samiti, Dr. Jalendra Tripathy, highlighted the objectives and activities of the organisation. In his introductory remarks, he spoke about the role of literary and social organisations in preserving cultural identity while inspiring the younger generation towards constructive thinking and creativity. He also reflected upon the journey of the Samiti over the last three decades and its contribution towards promoting literary discussions, social awareness, and value-based cultural programmes in the region.
One of the major highlights of the evening was the formal unveiling of Bichara Sarita, the official magazine of the Samiti. The magazine was jointly released by the dignitaries on the dais amidst applause from the audience. The publication contains articles, literary essays, poems, and reflections on contemporary social and cultural issues. Speakers appreciated the effort of the editorial team in sustaining a literary publication dedicated to intellectual and cultural discourse.
Addressing the gathering, Chief Guest Sanjay Kumar Pattnaik emphasised the importance of social and literary organisations in strengthening community bonds and nurturing ethical values in society. He praised the efforts of the Samiti in conducting meaningful programmes for more than three decades and noted that such organisations play a crucial role in preserving cultural traditions amid rapid modernisation. He also encouraged young people to remain connected with literature, language, and cultural roots while embracing scientific and technological progress.
Chief Speaker Professor Dr. Narasingha Charan Panda delivered an insightful speech focusing on the transformative role of literature and education in shaping society. He stated that literature is not merely a medium of expression but also a powerful instrument for social change and intellectual awakening. He spoke extensively about the need to promote reading habits among youth and stressed that educational institutions and literary forums must work together to create an enlightened and compassionate society.
Professor Panda further observed that India’s cultural strength lies in its diversity of languages, traditions, and philosophies. He appreciated organisations like Rastradeep Prasara Samiti for nurturing local talent and sustaining literary dialogue in remote and industrial regions. His speech received repeated applause from the audience for its depth and relevance.
Guest of Honour Dhruva Charan Behera reflected on the early years of the Samiti and its literary journey. He shared memories associated with the organisation’s magazine and various cultural initiatives undertaken over the years. He praised the dedication of the members who have continued the mission of the Samiti with sincerity and commitment despite changing social circumstances.
The programme was efficiently coordinated by President’s Award-winning teacher Dr. Ashok Kumar Mohanty, whose stage management and anchoring added dignity and continuity to the event. The smooth flow of the programme, coupled with cultural presentations and intellectual discussions, kept the audience engaged throughout the evening.
Towards the conclusion of the event, Dr. Manoj Kishore Nayak delivered the vote of thanks. He expressed gratitude to the guests, organisers, performers, and audience members for making the 33rd Literary Convention a grand success. He especially acknowledged the collective efforts of the members and volunteers of the Samiti, whose dedication ensured the successful organisation of the programme.
The entire event reflected a harmonious blend of literature, spirituality, patriotism, and social consciousness. The presence of scholars, teachers, students, and cultural enthusiasts highlighted the continuing relevance of literary organisations in today’s rapidly changing world.
As the programme concluded amid applause and interaction among participants, the 33rd Saraswat Samaroha once again reaffirmed the enduring commitment of Rastradeep Prasara Samiti towards promoting literature, cultural awareness, and social values in the region.
