Bhubaneswar, Jan 14: Eminent scholar and researcher Dr Nrusingha Charan Sarangi was conferred with the prestigious Vyasa Kabi Fakir Mohan Odia Bhasha Samman–2021 by the Odia Language, Literature and Culture Department of the Government of Odisha. The award ceremony was held at the Odisha Research Centre on the birth anniversary of legendary litterateur Fakir Mohan Senapati, officials said on Wednesday.

Culture Minister Suryabanshi Suraj presented the award, which carries a cash prize of Rs5 lakh, in recognition of Dr Sarangi’s distinguished contributions to Odia language and literature. His sustained academic research and significant literary works have been widely acknowledged as enriching the State’s cultural and intellectual heritage.

In his address, the Minister paid floral tributes to Fakir Mohan Senapati, describing him as the architect of modern Odia literature. “Vyasa Kabi Fakir Mohan Senapati gave voice to social realities and the lived experiences of the people. His writings continue to inspire generations and remain deeply relevant even today,” Mr. Suraj said.

Dr Sarangi, in his acceptance speech, reflected on the enduring influence of Fakir Mohan’s works on his academic journey. He highlighted his comparative research between Nathaniel Hawthorne’s The House of the Seven Gables and Fakir Mohan’s Chha Mana Atha Guntha, underscoring the universality of literary themes across cultures. Expressing gratitude to the Odisha Sahitya Akademi and the Department, he said the honour reaffirmed his commitment to advancing Odia literature.

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The occasion also witnessed the release of two publications by the Odisha Sahitya Akademi — Rajakabi Gobindabhanja Granthabali and Sahityika Janaki Ballabha Mohanty (Bharadwaj). Students of Utkal University of Culture presented a chorus performance, adding a cultural dimension to the programme.

Noted writer Shantanu Acharya, senior officials including Dr Bijay Ketan Upadhyay, Deba Prasad Dash, and Dr Chandrasekhar Hota were present. The event underscored Odisha’s continuing efforts to celebrate its literary heritage and honour scholars who contribute to its preservation and growth.