Asim Basu Foundation Inaugurates “Asim Da Khati” on His 93rd Birth Anniversary
Balasore, Oct 19 (Krushna Kumar Mohanty):
A new cultural landmark, “Asim Da Khati”, was recently inaugurated near Rabindra Mandap in Bhubaneswar to mark the 93rd birth anniversary of the eminent artist, writer, and stage personality Asim Basu.
Once a favourite gathering spot of the late Asim Basu—fondly known as Asim Da—the site used to resonate with his cheerful conversations and friendly addas with fellow artists and intellectuals. The initiative by the Asim Basu Foundation seeks to preserve his spirit and legacy within Odisha’s literary and artistic circles.
Asim Basu’s multifaceted contributions—as an art director in theatre and cinema, cover designer for books and magazines, illustrator, set designer, actor, and stage director—remain widely acknowledged. Beyond the visual arts, he was also a noted writer and columnist.
The tea stall in front of Rabindra Mandap has long been a hub for playwrights, actors, litterateurs, and creative minds. Asim Basu frequented this very place to sip tea and engage in lively discussions on theatre, literature, and art. After his passing, regular visitors of the stall dedicated it to his memory.
On his 93rd birth anniversary, the Foundation organized an informal celebration where the stall was officially renamed “Asim Da Khati.” A portrait of Asim Basu, painted by renowned artist Ramhari Jena, was unveiled in the presence of many admirers.
The event was attended by several distinguished personalities including poet Kedar Mishra, journalists Dillip Bishoi and Kapilas Bhuyan, writer Asit Mohanty, actress Bhaswati Basu, Atasi Basu, Amar Jena, Prasanna Mishra, Rahas Bihari Behera, Haren Sahu, and Banchhanidhi Pattanaik and Debadatta Pati.
With this initiative, Odisha witnesses a rare tribute where a humble khati (tea corner) becomes a living monument to a man who dedicated his life to art, literature, theatre, and culture.
