Bhubaneswar, (Reporterspen), Aug 1: Union Education Minister and BJP MP from Sambalpur, Dharmendra Pradhan, extended his greetings to the people of Odisha on Thursday for ‘Sambalpuri Din,’ which celebrates the birth anniversary of the renowned literature scholar Satya Narayan Bohidar.
In a video message on X, Pradhan praised Bohidar’s dedication and contributions to the Sambalpuri language, culture, and literature. He highlighted the establishment of the Rangabati Centre of Excellence in Cultural and Sustainable Management at IIM-Sambalpur, which focuses on research related to the art, literature, culture, and history of western Odisha, with particular emphasis on textiles. “Let us celebrate this day in honor of Sambalpuri Asmita and promote the message of brotherhood,” Pradhan stated.
BJP national vice president and Kendrapada MP Baijayant Panda also sent his wishes for ‘Sambalpuri Din,’ noting the significance of Guru Satyanarayan Bohidar’s contributions. On X, he remarked, “This day commemorates the birth anniversary of Guru Satyanarayan Bohidar, whose pioneering work in promoting the Sambalpuri dialect through his writings gave it the identity it holds today.”
Bohidar, born on August 1, 1913, in Sonepur, is celebrated as the pioneer of Sambalpuri language and grammar. In 2013, on his 100th birth anniversary, Paschima Anchal Ekta Manch decided to officially observe the day as Sambalpuri Din. The occasion is marked by people wearing Sambalpuri handloom and distributing free food in Sambalpur.
