Strong Storytelling Essential for a Meaningful Novel, Says Guest Speaker

Balasore, April 27 (Krushna Kumar Mohanty) –
The novel Ananya Shriradha by noted writer Ananta Chandra Patra was formally unveiled at a ceremony held at Sora Sanskriti Bhavan, Balasore.

The event, presided over by Dr. Ramakanta Behera, featured Dr. Shrikanta Charan Patra as the chief guest, who inaugurated the book and remarked that the spiritual essence of Vaishnavism forms the emotional nucleus of 'Ananya Shriradha', enriching it both intellectually and culturally.

Delivering the keynote address, Dr. Mathuranath Hota highlighted how spirituality and mythological narratives have long served as vital inspirations for the creation of Odia novels.
Former President Bijay Kumar Das, attending as a distinguished guest, observed that although novels have historically held a pivotal place in Odia literature, the reverence of both writers and readers towards the genre appears to be gradually waning.

Speaking as the book’s reviewer, Dr. Rabindra Bihari praised 'Ananya Shriradha' for its effective presentation of character development and storyline, noting that amidst a contemporary climate of literary slackness, Patra’s work stands out as a remarkable exception.

Dr. Kalipada Panda, head of Subarnashree Publications, which brought out the novel, suggested that Odia novels could achieve greater strength and recognition if approached with a comparative vision alongside world literature.

Addressing the audience, Ananta Chandra Patra reflected on the extensive background research and creative journey that culminated in the writing of 'Ananya Shriradha'.

Earlier, Ashok Kumar Mohanty welcomed the guests, and Damodar Das Mahapatra provided an introductory outline of the program. Debendra Kumar Pradhan introduced the dignitaries, while Chandramohan Mahapatra proposed the vote of thanks. The event also featured a captivating Odissi dance performance by Kritika Patra.

In the second session, a poetry recital was organized, chaired by poet Suranjan Patra, with poets Sasmita Rout and Kamalalochan Behera coordinating the proceedings.
Among the poets who recited their works were Nabakishore Das, Lambodar Mishra, Maheshwar Panda, Chemei Das, Minati Kar, Bhagyalaxmi De, Ramachandra Prusti, Achyuta Kumar Panda, Rabindra Kumar Das, Baidyanath Das, Sarat Kumar Patra, Sanat Patra, Seemanta Patra, Mitarani Behera, Tapaswini Patra, and Triptiarani Sarkar.