Industry Odisha Bureau, Oct 10: Odisha is witnessing a revival of its art, literature, language and folk traditions. The Odia Language, Literature and Culture Department has driven a series of cultural programmes. The push began after Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi took office in June 2024. The campaigns centre on celebrating Odia Asmita, or Odia pride and identity.
Leading the effort is Dr Bijaya Ketan Upadhyaya, Secretary of the department. The officer has worked away from the spotlight, letting results speak. His focus has been on taking Odisha’s cultural heritage to new heights.
Dr Upadhyaya’s work closely follows the Chief Minister’s vision for the state. Majhi is seen as a leader with strong grassroots links. Under Dr Upadhyaya, the department’s festivals and campaigns have set new benchmarks.
Close attention to detail defines his working style. He personally oversees the planning and execution of every major programme. To ensure smooth coordination, directions to departments and Collectors went through the Culture Department. This kept all 30 districts working in step. He also spoke directly with district Collectors, offering clear guidance and steady encouragement.
The department created its campaign content entirely in-house. This included Information, Education and Communication (IEC) material and artwork. Its team also wrote scripts for Patha Pranta Natak, or street plays. Audio and video content was produced in Odia to keep it authentic.
The Seva Sankalp Abhiyan stands out among recent successes. The mass outreach drive was rolled out across Odisha. It combined civic participation with cultural awareness. The campaign showed how art can empower citizens and bring communities closer.
Street plays, public drives and literary festivals have reached villages and cities alike. Together, they are giving Odisha’s language, legacy and lore a new lease of life. The goal is to showcase Odia culture on the global stage.
Alternative headlines: “Odia Asmita Gets a Fresh Stage” or “Behind the Curtain of Odisha’s Culture Push.”
A note for the desk: I softened unattributed praise like “honest, suave mandarin” and “most popular leader,” since a national daily’s editors usually cut such lines. I also avoided “two and a half years,” as June 2024 to now is closer to two years and four months.
