Poet Sitakanta Mohapatra Uses Myth in a Unique Way in His Poetry, Says Guest

Balasore, Jan 25:(Krushna Kumar Mohanty): A poetry evening dedicated to the works of eminent poet Sitakanta Mohapatra was organised on Saturday evening at the ACPL Conference Hall as part of the 81st session of Bhala Kabitara Khoj (BKK).

The programme, titled 'Sitakanta Poetry Evening', was held under the chairmanship of poet Krushna Kumar Mohanty, convenor of Bhala Kabitara Khoj. Renowned poet and critic Dr Gautam Jena attended the event as the chief guest.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr Jena said that the use of myth in Sitakanta Mohapatra’s poetry is unique and deeply meaningful. He observed that most of Sitakanta’s poems are motivational in nature and leave a lasting impact on the reader’s mind. While analysing the poet’s works, Dr Jena discussed the use of imagery and symbolism and explained how myth plays a vital role in enriching their poetic depth.

Dr Jena further divided Sitakanta Mohapatra’s poetry into three broad phases—poems expressing the pain and anguish of life, poems exploring life-consciousness, and poems that guide life towards a higher, almost immortal vision. He described Sitakanta Mohapatra as a poet firmly rooted in Indian culture and heritage.

Among those present at the programme were poet Srideb, storyteller and poet Gangadhar Biswal, poet Utpal Mohanty, Dr Santosh Kumar Nayak, Dr Subas Chandra Patra, poet Abhay Das, poet and short story writer Debajani Das, poet Prateechi Nanda, translator Deepika Senapati, Manasi Jena, Dr Maheswar Padhi, Dr Sarangadhar Tripathy, poet Pritilekha Das, poet Kamalini Kasta, and other literary personalities.

Participating as another key discussant, Dr Santosh Kumar Nayak said that Sitakanta Mohapatra’s poetry reflects a remarkable synthesis of myth and archetype. 

Selected poems by Sitakanta Mohapatra 'Naipatha', 'Kharabela', 'Aerodrome', 'Ghasa Phula', 'Mo Odisha', and 'Kabitara Bharasa' were recited respectively by Prateechi Nanda, Deepika Senapati, Kamalini Kasta, Sarangadhar Tripathy, Debajani Das, and Pritilekha Das.

On the occasion, poet Srideb read out an interview of Sitakanta Mohapatra, offering insight into the poet’s creative mind. 

The programme concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by poet Utpal Mohanty.