IIT Bhubaneswar Celebrates Utkal Diwas with Great Fervor
Bhubaneswar: Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bhubaneswar has celebrated Utkal Diwas in a grand manner. Chief Guest Prof. Parthasarathi Ajay Barik, an eminent speaker of Odia & English Literature and Editor of a weekly newspaper “The Chira Sandhaan”graced the occasion, in the presence of Prof. Shreepad Karmalkar, Director, IIT Bhubaneswar, Prof. Rajesh Roshan Dash, Dean (Student Affairs) and Shri Bamadev Acharya, Registrar of the Institute.
In his presidential address, Professor Karmalkar eloquently recounted his extensive experiences during his prolonged stay in Odisha. He underscored the unwavering commitment of IIT Bhubaneswar towards revolutionizing the educational landscape of the state, particularly emphasizing its endeavors to reshape the technological education sector. Notably, he highlighted the institution’s groundbreaking initiative, the 100-Cube Start-up Initiative, aiming to foster the emergence of 100 start-ups, each boasting a valuation of Rs. 100 crore by Odisha’s centennial anniversary in 2036.
Moreover, Professor Karmalkar articulated the institute’s concerted efforts in delving into the ancient reservoirs of knowledge, aiming to unravel the scientific insights and engineering marvels inherent in ancient Odisha.
During the event, Registrar Shri Bamadev Acharya reverently reflected on Odisha’s rich legacy and heritage, paying homage to visionary leaders like Utkal Gaurav Madhusudan Das for their pivotal roles in establishing Odisha as a linguistically independent state. He also graciously introduced the Chief Guest of the occasion.
In his address, Chief Guest Professor Barik lauded IIT Bhubaneswar for its steadfast dedication to preserving and propagating Odisha’s cultural heritage through such initiatives. He artfully weaved literary references and poetic allusions to celebrate the contributions of Odia luminaries in the state’s journey towards independence, underscoring the profound significance of Odia as a Classical Language of India and the indispensable role of Odisha’s art and culture in its illustrious tradition.
Dr. Remya Neelancherry, Coordinator of Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat (EBSB), extended a warm welcome to the attendees, setting the tone for the proceedings. The program was impeccably coordinated by the EBSB team of IIT Bhubaneswar.
The celebration encompassed a Quiz on Odisha, offering a glimpse into the state’s rich tapestry of culture and history. A captivating cultural program, presented by the institute’s members, captivated the audience, encapsulating the essence of the occasion.
To commemorate the event, the Central Library of the institute curated a special book display celebrating Odisha’s enchanting landscape and its multifaceted cultural heritage. This curated collection, exploring various facets of Odisha’s heritage including its history, art, culture, language, and literature, will be showcased from April 1st to April 3rd, 2024.
Preceding this celebration, on the eve of Utkal Diwas, the Unnat Bharat Abhiyan (UBA) of IIT Bhubaneswar organized an Exhibition-cum-Sale showcasing various traditional foods and handicrafts of Odisha, serving as a testament to the state’s vibrant culture and heritage. The event witnessed participation from 14 organizations, including Self Help Groups from nearby villages, start-ups incubated at IIT Bhubaneswar, and women entrepreneurs of Kalinga Swaraj Foundation (Women’s Wing), attracting around 700 visitors. Director Professor Shreepad Karmalkar commended the participants and awarded prizes to the top three stalls and the top three dishes presented at the exhibition. Dr. Seema Bahinipati, Coordinator of UBA, IIT Bhubaneswar, and Dr. Madhusmita Dash, along with the team of volunteers, adeptly managed the event.
