Bhubaneswar, 2nd April 2025: Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bhubaneswar has celebrated Utkal Diwas in a grand manner. Chief Guest Prof. Basanta Kumar Panda, Project Director, Centre of Excellence for Studies in Classical Odia, Central Institute of Indian Languages (CIIL), Ministry of Education, Govt. of India graced the occasion, in the presence of Prof. Shreepad Karmalkar, Director, IIT Bhubaneswar and Shri Bamadev Acharya, Registrar of the Institute.
Prof. Karmalkar delivered his entire speech in Odia even if his mother tongue is not Odia. He described his experience in Odisha during more than two years of his stay in Odisha. He said : “IIT Bhubaneswar is committed and working consistently towards nurturing future leaders who will contribute to the nation’s progress with knowledge and integrity.
Speaking on the occasion, Registrar Shri Bamadev Acharya cherished the rich legacy and heritage of the land of Odisha. He remembered the role of great leaders in establishing Odisha as an independent state based on language in order to achieve political, social and cultural excellence of Odisha.
In his address to the gathering, Chief Guest Prof. Panda said: Mother-tongue based Multilingual Education is going to be introduced in the education system of the country as per the National Education Policy. Multilingualism is an important tool for language education in particular, and education in general.” He stressed on the importance of mother language in the development of a society. He highlighted the historical evolution of Odia language. He also spoke in detail about the struggle of Odisha to achieve statehood on the basis of language.
At the outset, Dr. Remya Neelancherry, Coordinator, Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat (EBSB) delivered the welcome address. The programme was coordinated by the EBSB Team of IIT Bhubaneswar.
A vibrant cultural programme by the members of the Institute showcased the spirit of the occasion and enthralled the audience.
To mark the occasion earlier in the day, the Central Library of the Institute has initiated a special book display celebrating the enchanting land of Odisha and its rich cultural heritage for the members of the Institute. This was graced by Shri Bamadev Acharya, Registrar. This special collection of books that delves into various facets of Odisha’s heritage, including its history, art, culture, language, and literature will be displayed from 1st April to 3rd April 2025.
Prior to this, as a part of the Utkal Diwas celebration, the Unnat Bharat Abhiyan (UBA) of IIT Bhubaneswar organized a vibrant exhibition and cultural event at the Community Centre, highlighting Odisha’s rich heritage, art, and traditions on 29th March 2025. The event featured traditional music, handicrafts, authentic Odia cuisine, and artistic displays, attended by dignitaries, faculty, students, and villagers from five adopted communities.
The Director, Prof. Shreepad Karmalkar, accompanied by Mrs. Shruti Karmalkar, and Registrar, Mr. Bamadev Acharya, graced the occasion. Dr. Seema Bahinipati (Coordinator, UBA), Dr. Tarakanta Nayak (Co-coordinator, UBA), and Dr. Raj Kumar Singh (Faculty Theme Leader, Agriculture and Environment Team) coordinated the event. A major highlight was the exhibition-cum-sale with 20 stalls showcasing heritage crafts like Pattachitra paintings, silver filigree jewellery, and eco-friendly products. Traditional Odia delicacies and sustainable goods further enriched the experience, fostering deep engagement between artisans and attendees. The celebration successfully honoured Odisha’s identity and craftsmanship, making it a memorable and culturally significant occasion.
