Shraddha Divas of Pandit Neelakantha Das Observed at Sakhigopal College
Sakhigopal: 06/11/2024
Report: Singhari Alok Khuntia
The National Service Scheme (NSS) unit of Utkalmani Gopabandhu Smruti Mahavidyalaya, Sakhigopal, organized an event in the college auditorium to observe the death anniversary (Shraddha Divas) of Pandit Neelakantha Das.
The event began with floral tributes, incense, and lamps offered to the statues of the revered Pandit Gopabandhu Das and Pandit Neelakantha Das.
Presiding over the meeting, Principal Prof. Satyashibasundar Mishra highlighted the life and literary contributions of Pandit Neelakantha Das. He elaborated on Neelakantha Das’s multifaceted talents and stressed the importance of conducting in-depth research on the psychological dimensions of his literature and politics.
The chief guest of the event was Shri Manas Ranjan Mahapatra, former Director of the National Children’s Literature Centre, a distinguished poet, storyteller, translator, and advisor to various national and international organizations. He discussed the life and writings of Pandit Neelakantha Das, recognizing him as a symbol of Odia intellectualism and declaring his literary works as a priceless asset of the Odia community.
As the keynote speaker, Dr. Sharmistha Mahapatra, a professor at Odisha University, participated and reflected on how the “Pancha Sakha” (five great nationalists) from the holy land of Satyabadi initiated a movement for Odia nationalism. She deeply discussed the childhood, education, teaching career, and literary creations of Pandit Neelakantha Das.
On this occasion, a two-minute silent prayer was observed for the departed soul of renowned researcher Dr. Sunil Kumar Rath.
In addition, English Department Head Manoj Kumar Parida was felicitated by the guests for the publication of a biographical and autobiographical book on Professor Chittaranjan Das, released under the title “Ama Odisha.”
The entire event was conducted by Head of the Sanskrit Department, Prof. Sujata Mahapatra. Another Sanskrit lecturer, Sasmita Pradhan, began the ceremony with a recitation of Vedic hymns.
Dr. Shankarsan Pradhan, Officer of the +3 NSS unit, introduced the guests, while Prof. Prakash Kumar Sahu, Officer of the +2 NSS unit, delivered the vote of thanks.
