Jayadeva’s Statue Unveiled
On April 23rd in Puri, a historic moment unfolded with the unveiling of the first statue of the legendary poet Jayadeva, the revered author of the devotional Sanskrit masterpiece Gita Govinda. The statue has been installed near the Old Sadar Police Station Square, close to Puri District School. This significant cultural initiative was undertaken by the Shri Jayadeva Foundation, aiming to commemorate the poet’s timeless contribution to devotional literature and Odia cultural heritage.
The event was held in the evening and was graced by several eminent personalities. The statue was formally unveiled by former commissioner Digambar Mohanty and Additional District Magistrate Pradeep Kumar Sahu. Speaking at the ceremony, Mr. Mohanty highlighted how Jayadeva’s birth anniversary has now evolved into a collective awakening of cultural pride. He emphasized that devotion and reverence have always played a key role in shaping and nurturing societies.
Jayadeva’s Gita Govinda, he said, is an extraordinary literary creation that blends divine love, devotion, and lyrical excellence, dedicated entirely to Lord Govinda (Krishna). This text is not just a work of art but a divine offering, and according to tradition, it is believed to be so cherished by Lord Jagannath that He listens to its recitation before falling asleep.
ADM Pradeep Kumar Sahu elaborated on Jayadeva’s significance as a poet-saint and on how Gita Govinda has immortalized his name across generations. He also spoke about taking measures for the security and maintenance of the statue site and appreciated the foundation’s efforts.
Municipal Executive Officer Saroj Kumar Swain shed light on the profound connection between poet Jayadeva, Gita Govinda, and Lord Jagannath, and offered insights into how the statue location was chosen and the process behind its installation.
The event was chaired by Rabi Narayan Guru, and several notable attendees, including Santosh Kumar Sethi, District Information and Public Relations Officer; Hemanta Behera, District Culture Officer; Chakradhar Mahapatra, Executive Chairman of the Foundation; and members Jatadhari Mishra and Chittaranjan Mishra, also shared their thoughts on Jayadeva’s legacy.
Editor Anam Chandra Sahu presented a detailed overview of the initiative, while literary figure Kailash Chandra Tikayat Ray hosted the event, and Joint Editor Prasanna Kumar Mishra extended the vote of thanks.
As part of the celebration, Odisha Sangeet Parishad presented a musical performance based on Gita Govinda, and Sri Jagannath Sanskriti Sankirtan Seva Vikash Parishad also performed traditional kirtan, enhancing the devotional spirit of the evening.
Other members of the foundation also played active roles in organizing and supporting the event. The unveiling of Jayadeva’s statue stands as a tribute to his eternal contribution to spiritual literature and Odia identity, inspiring generations to embrace culture, devotion, and heritage.
