Pallishree Pattanayak in Literature, Ajay Panda in Education
Narla (Lingaraj Mishra): Renowned cultural organizer Jayanta Kumar Behera is set to receive the prestigious ‘Devgiri Samman,’ the highest honor from Devgiri Sanskrutik Anusthan, a prominent Odisha organization. This recognition highlights his lifelong dedication, particularly his significant contributions to various folk dances in Western Odisha, including the noteworthy ‘Ghumura’ war-dance from Kalahandi. Mr. Behera’s impact has reached national and international stages, with Ghumura dance performances at events like the Bharat Utsav in USSR (1987), Beijing Asiad (2012), and Dubai (2022). Over the past half-century, he has excelled in diverse roles such as a cultural and sports organizer, social worker, actor, choreographer, journalist, and writer.
Internationally acclaimed karate player and social worker Kedar Kabat, a resident of Titilagarh in Balangir district, will be honored with the ‘Devgiri Yuva Samman.’ Notably, Mr. Kabat clinched victory at the Asian Karate Championship in Malaysia in 2012 and is celebrated for his artistry in various international forums. Beyond his athletic achievements, he founded the Guru Krupa Seva Trust, providing daily free meals to 25-30 people in need. Even during the Corona pandemic, his noteworthy public service continued, with his students achieving success in karate at the state and national levels.
Dr. Pallishree Pattanayak, a distinguished writer presently leading the Odia Department at Kalahandi University, will be awarded the ‘Devgiri Sahitya Samman.’ Her published works, spanning short story collections, novels, essays, literary criticism, and English poetry, have garnered widespread acclaim. Dr. Pattanayak is also actively engaged as a translator and social worker.
Eminent educationist Engineer Ajay Panda is set to receive the ‘Devgiri Shiksha Samman’ for revolutionizing quality education in Kalahandi and Western Odisha through the Pragati Group of Institutions. His exemplary social service includes providing free education to underprivileged students, establishing an oxygen bank during the Corona pandemic, organizing blood donation camps, and distributing winter clothes annually.
These esteemed individuals will be honored at the 31st annual function of Devgiri Sanskrutik Anusthan, alongside the state-level Kumarswami Mahotsav-2023, scheduled from November 25th to 27th at Budhipadar under Narla block. Further recipients in various categories will be revealed shortly, as confirmed by the President, Sanjay Dhangadamajhi, and General Secretary, Sunil Kumar Dhangadamajhi.
