Eminent Personalities of Odisha: Inspiring the Next Generation

Sarala Dasa, a prominent figure in Odia literature, emerges as a beacon of creative brilliance. Born in the rich cultural tapestry of Odisha, his legacy resonates through the centuries. His literary prowess, notably the “Sarala Mahabharata,” reimagined the epic saga with a unique Odia touch. Through his verses, he transported readers into a world of vivid imagination and moral lessons. Sarala Dasa’s impact on Odia culture and literature remains indelible, casting a lasting influence on generations of writers and enthusiasts alike.

Atibadi Jagannath Das, a luminary of the 15th century, stands as a prominent figure in Odia literature. His literary contributions have left an indelible mark on the cultural heritage of Odisha. Through his magnum opus, the “Bhagabata,” and other works, he intertwined devotion, philosophy, and storytelling, captivating the hearts of generations. Das’s creations not only reflect his deep-rooted spiritual beliefs but also offer insights into the socio-cultural landscape of his time. His legacy continues to shine brightly, bridging the gap between history and literature, and inspiring countless individuals with his profound literary artistry.

Kabi Samrat Upendra Bhanja, a revered literary figure, graced Odia literature with his brilliance. Born in the 17th century, he is celebrated for his exquisite poetry and profound insights. Bhanja’s verses traverse themes of love, devotion, and societal nuances, leaving an indelible mark on cultural heritage. His eloquence and creativity have earned him the title of “Kabi Samrat,” meaning the emperor of poets. Through his timeless compositions, Upendra Bhanja continues to inspire and enchant generations, solidifying his legacy as a luminary in the world of poetry and literature.

Kavisurya Baladev Rath was a visionary poet whose words painted vivid pictures of human experiences. Born with a creative spark, Rath’s poetry resonated with emotions, nature, and spirituality. His compositions breathed life into Odia literature, captivating hearts with their depth and beauty. Rath’s unique blend of traditional wisdom and modern sensibilities made his work a timeless treasure. Through verses that flowed like rivers, he explored life’s intricate tapestry, inspiring generations to contemplate the profound. In the realm of poetry, Kavisurya Baladev Rath remains a guiding star, illuminating minds and kindling the love for language and art.

Fakir Mohan Senapati, a prominent figure in Indian literature, emerges as a trailblazer of modern Odia prose. Born in 1843, Senapati’s literary prowess brought forth a new era of storytelling. His works, deeply rooted in societal realities, depicted the complexities of human nature and the pressing issues of his time. With seminal creations like “Chha Mana Atha Guntha,” he not only entertained but also provoked introspection. Senapati’s legacy lies in his ability to mirror the human condition and initiate social reform through his impactful narratives. His contributions continue to resonate, making him a revered cornerstone of Odia literature.

Gangadhar Meher, a luminary of Odia literature, shines as a revered poet and playwright. Born in the 19th century, his verses breathe life into emotions and experiences, resonating with hearts across generations. Meher’s literary journey is a tapestry woven with poignant themes, reflecting the human condition, nature’s beauty, and spiritual insights. His contributions have left an indelible mark, enriching Odia culture and literature. Through evocative storytelling and lyrical prowess, Gangadhar Meher continues to inspire and uplift, embodying the essence of creativity and expression.

Radhanath Ray, a prominent figure in Odia literature, emerges as a luminary whose words continue to resonate. Born in the 19th century, his literary contributions encompass poetry, essays, and plays, touching diverse themes from love to social reform. Ray’s ability to capture human emotions within his verses is a hallmark of his work. His “Chilika Tire” remains a classic, evoking the poignant essence of life. In his writings, we find a reflection of the societal shifts of his time. Ray’s legacy endures, inspiring generations to explore the intricacies of the human experience through the prism of literature.

In the realm of literature, Madhusudan Rao stands as a luminary whose words have left an indelible mark. Born in the 19th century, Rao’s literary prowess and innovative thinking have resonated through generations, making him a cornerstone of creative expression. Let’s delve into the life and contributions of this remarkable figure.

Nanda Kishore Bal, a notable personality, has left an indelible mark with his contributions. A visionary in his field, Bal’s work resonates in various domains, showcasing his exceptional talent and dedication. His journey is a testament to creativity and innovation.

Nilakantha Das, a prominent figure in Odia literature, emerges as a beacon of creative brilliance. Born in an era that witnessed cultural transformations, Das’s literary contributions shine as a testament to his profound insight and artistic finesse. Through his writings, he encapsulated the essence of his time, offering readers a glimpse into historical nuances and societal dynamics. As we embark on an exploration of Nilakantha Das’s life and works, we unravel the layers of his creativity, leaving us inspired by his enduring legacy.

Godabarish Mishra, a prominent name in the world of literature, emerges as a beacon of creativity and intellect. With a career spanning decades, Mishra’s literary prowess has left an indelible mark. As an esteemed author, poet, and journalist, he has captivated audiences with his profound insights and eloquent expressions. Mishra’s works delve into the human experience, touching hearts and minds alike. Through his contributions, he has not only enriched literature but also stimulated thought on various social and cultural facets.

Gopabandhu Das, a visionary leader and social reformer from Odisha, India, was a pivotal figure in the Indian freedom movement. Born in 1877, his unwavering dedication to education, social upliftment, and humanitarian causes earned him immense respect. His contributions spanned journalism, education, and advocacy for the marginalized. Gopabandhu Das’s legacy remains an inspiration, embodying the spirit of selflessness and commitment to the betterment of society. Through his life and work, he continues to ignite the flames of positive change, leaving an indelible mark on India’s history.

Gopinath Mohanty, a prominent Indian writer, illuminated the literary world with his compelling narratives. Born in 1914, his works beautifully intertwined human emotions with societal dynamics. His profound storytelling and insightful reflections on rural life resonated deeply with readers. Mohanty’s creations, including “Paraja” and “Amrutara Santana,” vividly depicted the essence of Odisha’s culture and its people’s struggles. A recipient of the Sahitya Akademi Award, his literary prowess left an indelible mark on Indian literature. Mohanty’s legacy continues to inspire generations, reminding us of the power of words to capture the human experience.

Malati Choudhury was a pioneering figure known for her exceptional contributions to Indian literature. Born with a passionate love for words, Choudhury’s writings vividly depicted the complexities of human emotions and societal dynamics. Through her poignant storytelling, she left an indelible mark, inspiring generations to come. Her works continue to resonate, offering profound insights into the human experience.

Kuntala Kumari Sabat, a name that resonates with literary brilliance, graced the world with her presence. With an innate flair for words, Sabat emerged as a trailblazer in the realm of literature. Her contributions span various genres, from poetry to prose, each reflecting her unique perspective and unwavering passion. Through her eloquent expressions, Sabat transported readers to worlds unknown, capturing hearts and minds alike.

Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, a revered saint and spiritual luminary, graced 16th-century India with his profound teachings. Born in Navadvipa, West Bengal, he propagated the practice of bhakti (devotion) to attain spiritual enlightenment. With boundless compassion and a vision of universal love, he emphasized chanting the holy names of Krishna as a path to divine connection. Chaitanya Mahaprabhu’s teachings ignited a spiritual revival, transcending social boundaries and inspiring countless souls to embrace devotion and unity. His legacy continues to inspire seekers worldwide, fostering a deep connection to spirituality and the divine through the transformative power of love and devotion.

Bhima Bhoi, a revered 19th-century mystic poet and philosopher from Odisha, India, stands as an inspirational icon of social reform and spiritual awakening. Born into a marginalized community, his profound verses addressed themes of equality, love, and humanity. His philosophy centered on the unity of all religions and the elevation of the downtrodden. Bhima Bhoi’s legacy continues to resonate, promoting harmony and inclusivity, making him a guiding light for seekers of truth and advocates of social change.

Jayadeva, a revered Indian poet of the 12th century, stands as a luminary in the realm of literature. Hailing from Odisha, his poetic brilliance and profound devotion are encapsulated in his magnum opus, the “Gita Govinda.” This timeless work weaves intricate verses that celebrate the divine love between Lord Krishna and Radha. Jayadeva’s ability to meld music and poetry harmoniously has left an indelible mark on cultural heritage, influencing generations of artists and poets. Through his words, we journey into a world of devotion, artistry, and spirituality that continues to resonate across the ages.

Achyutananda Das, a revered 16th-century saint and philosopher in Odisha, India, holds a significant place in history. Known for his profound spiritual wisdom, he traversed the land, spreading teachings of devotion and compassion. Achyutananda Das’s verses, embedded with deep insights, remain timeless, inspiring generations. His contributions to literature, particularly in the Odia language, continue illuminating the path of seekers, fostering a sense of spirituality and enlightenment. Achyutananda Das’s legacy endures in a transformative era, offering solace and guidance to those who seek a deeper understanding of life’s mysteries.

Dasia Bauri, a revered figure in Odisha’s folk culture, encapsulates the spirit of resilience and devotion. From marginalized communities, Dasia’s life exemplifies unwavering dedication to Lord Jagannath. With humble tools in hand, Dasia transforms tree barks into intricate art, narrating the divine stories. This unassuming artist’s legacy reverberates through generations, embodying the essence of faith, humility, and artistic brilliance.

Laxman Nayak, a significant figure in Indian history, is remembered for his unwavering courage and dedication to justice. Born in Odisha, Nayak’s life was a testament to his resilience against oppression during British colonial rule. He fearlessly led tribal communities in the fight against unjust taxes and exploitation by landlords. His heroic stand against tyranny and his pursuit of equality has etched his name in the annals of freedom fighters. Laxman Nayak’s legacy continues to inspire generations, showcasing the power of determination in the face of adversity.

Jayi Rajaguru was a valiant freedom fighter who played a pivotal role in India’s struggle for independence. His unwavering determination and courage inspired many during the tumultuous times of colonial rule. Rajaguru’s commitment to the cause of freedom led him to actively participate in various movements and protests, challenging the oppressive British regime. His sacrifice and patriotism remain a beacon of inspiration for generations, reminding us of the indomitable spirit that fueled the fight for a free and sovereign nation.

Buxi Jagabandhu, a valiant figure in Odisha’s history, stands as a symbol of unwavering courage and determination. His indomitable spirit and commitment to the cause of freedom have etched his name in the annals of India’s struggle against colonial rule. Buxi Jagabandhu’s legacy continues to inspire generations with his fearless leadership and selfless devotion to the fight for independence. In this brief introduction, we unveil the essence of Buxi Jagabandhu’s role as a revered freedom fighter who ignited the flames of resistance in Odisha.

In the annals of Odisha’s history, the name Chakhi Khuntia stands as a symbol of unwavering courage and determination. A stalwart of the freedom struggle, Khuntia’s indomitable spirit and sacrifices kindled the flames of liberation. As we explore the life and contributions of this remarkable freedom fighter, we uncover a saga of bravery that continues to inspire generations.

Harekrushna Mahatab, a prominent Indian freedom fighter and statesman, played a pivotal role in shaping the political landscape. Born in 1899, he championed the cause of independence and social reform. Mahatab’s dedication led him to leadership roles in various movements and political parties. He served as the Chief Minister of Odisha and a Union Cabinet Minister, leaving an indelible mark on education, rural development, and governance. His enduring legacy continues to inspire generations, reflecting his unwavering commitment to the betterment of society and the nation’s progress.

Krushna Chandra Gajapati, a prominent figure in Indian history, was a visionary leader and a staunch advocate for social reform. Born in 1892, he was the Maharaja of Paralakhemundi and played a pivotal role in the freedom struggle. His commitment to education, rural development, and empowerment of marginalized communities earned him immense respect. Krushna Chandra Gajapati’s legacy continues to inspire, reflecting his dedication to a progressive and inclusive India.

Subhas Chandra Bose, a prominent Indian nationalist leader, played a pivotal role in the country’s struggle for independence. Born in 1897, Bose’s fervent dedication to liberating India from British rule led him to organize and lead the Indian National Army (INA). His charismatic leadership and unwavering determination earned him the title of “Netaji.” Bose’s daring ideologies and efforts to forge international alliances showcased his commitment to the cause. Despite his untimely demise in 1945, Subhas Chandra Bose remains an iconic figure whose legacy continues to inspire generations in the pursuit of freedom.

Veer Surendra Sai, a prominent Indian freedom fighter, was a beacon of resistance against British colonial rule. Born in the 19th century, his unwavering courage and determination led him to challenge oppression and fight for the rights of his people. His legacy continues to inspire generations as a symbol of indomitable spirit and dedication to the cause of independence. Let’s explore the remarkable life and contributions of Veer Surendra Sai, a true hero of the struggle for freedom.

Baji Rout, a young hero from Odisha, holds an everlasting place in history due to his unwavering courage and sacrifice. Born during India’s struggle for independence, Baji Rout fearlessly confronted British forces during a protest, displaying remarkable bravery beyond his years. At the tender age of 12, he became a symbol of resistance, reminding us that even the youngest voices can echo the loudest in the pursuit of freedom. Baji Rout’s legacy continues to inspire generations, underscoring the power of youth in shaping the course of a nation’s destiny.

Birsa Munda, a visionary tribal leader, emerged as a symbol of resistance and empowerment in late 19th-century India. Hailing from the Munda tribe, he championed the rights and dignity of indigenous communities against oppressive colonial forces. His fervent advocacy for land rights, cultural preservation, and social justice sparked a movement that resonates to this day. Birsa’s leadership, encapsulated by his slogan “Abua Disum” (Our Land), inspired a quest for freedom and equality. Through his indomitable spirit and unwavering dedication, Birsa Munda ignited a flame of change that continues to illuminate the path toward inclusivity and rights for marginalized communities.

Rama Devi, a distinguished name in Indian education, was a trailblazer who shattered gender barriers. Born in 1925, she dedicated her life to empowering women through education. Rama Devi’s legacy resonates through Rama Devi Women’s University, named in her honor. Her story inspires generations, embodying courage and resilience in the face of adversity.

Bijayananda Patnaik, born on March 5, 1916, and passed away on April 17, 1997, was an important person in India. He did many things in his life. He was a leader, a pilot, and a businessman. He was in charge of the government in the state of Odisha two times, from 1961 to 1963 and from 1990 to 1995. He also had important jobs related to mining and coal in India from 1977 to 1980. He was elected to a group in the government called the Lok Sabha from 1977 to 1985. He was the father of Naveen Patnaik. Naveen Patnaik is the leader of Odisha now and has been for a long time.

Naveen Patnaik, born on October 16, 1946, is a leader from India. He’s been the head of the Odisha state government (like a governor) since the year 2000. He’s been doing this job for a very long time, more than 23 years. He’s also the first leader of a political party called Biju Janata Dal since 1997. He’s one of the leaders who have been in charge for a really long time in India. In July 2023, he became the second-longest serving leader in India, only behind someone named Jyoti Basu. He’s won elections to become the leader five times in a row. Before being the state’s leader, he was also a government minister for a few years.

Hemananda Biswal was an important leader from India. He led the state of Odisha two times – first from December 1989 to March 1990, and then from December 1999 to March 2000. He also represented the people of Sundergarh in the Indian Parliament from 2009 to 2014. Biswal was special because he was the first leader from the tribal community to become the Chief Minister of Odisha. He was born on 1st December 1939 and passed away on 25th February 2022.

Janaki Ballabh Patnaik, an important Indian politician, served as the 25th Governor of Assam from 2009 to 2014. He was a leader of the Indian National Congress party. He held the position of Chief Minister of Odisha two times: from 1980 to 1989 and then from 1995 to 1999. This made him the longest-serving Chief Minister of Odisha until Naveen Patnaik. In 1950, he became the head of the Odisha state branch of the young members of the Congress party. Additionally, in 1980, he became the Union Minister for Tourism, Civil Aviation, and Labor from January 16 to June 7.

He was born on June 3, 1949. He became a lawyer officially on March 28, 1974, with the Orissa Bar Council in Cuttack. He worked as a judge in the Orissa High Court from January 13, 1994, to February 6, 1994, and then again from April 15, 2002, to March 13, 2005. He also served as a judge in the Gauhati High Court starting from February 7, 1994. He was promoted to become the Chief Justice of the Chhattisgarh High Court on March 14, 2005.

After being transferred, he started working as the Chief Justice of the Madhya Pradesh High Court on October 2, 2005. Later, on November 17, 2009, he was appointed as a Judge in the Supreme Court of India.

Born on December 19th, 1937. Became a lawyer on February 28th, 1962. Practiced law in different types of cases in the Orissa High Court and also appeared in some cases in the Supreme Court. Started working as a legal representative for the State Government on March 1st, 1971, and later took on more responsibilities as an Additional Government Advocate from July 19th, 1974, and worked in this role for over four years.

Became a judge in the Orissa High Court from June 1st, 1983, until May 18th, 1995. Then, was promoted to become the Chief Justice of the Patna High Court on May 19th, 1995. Later became a judge in the Supreme Court of India on November 9th, 1995, and finally became the Chief Justice of India on November 8th, 2002.

Ranganath was born on November 25, 1926, in Banapur, Odisha. He went to Banpur High School and P.M. Academy for his education and later attended Ravenshaw College and Allahabad University. On September 18, 1950, he became a lawyer at Orissa High Court in Cuttack, where he practiced law until July 4, 1969. On that day, he became a Permanent Judge of the Orissa High Court. On January 16, 1981, he became the Chief Justice of the Orissa High Court. He was then made a Supreme Court Judge on March 15, 1983, and eventually became the Chief Justice of India on October 6, 1990.

He was born on October 3rd, 1953. He became a lawyer on February 14th, 1977, and practiced in various types of legal cases. He worked in the Orissa High Court and the Service Tribunal. He became a higher-level judge in the Orissa High Court on January 17th, 1996, and then moved to the Madhya Pradesh High Court on March 3rd, 1997. He became a permanent judge on December 19th, 1997.

Later, he became the head judge of the Patna High Court on December 23, 2009, and then the head judge of the Delhi High Court on May 24, 2010. He was promoted to a judge in the Supreme Court of India on October 10, 2011.

Binita Toppo was born on November 21, 1980. She’s part of India’s women’s national field hockey team. She was on the team when they won the Gold at the 2004 Women’s Hockey Asia Cup.

Dilip Tirkey is a former field hockey player and captain of the Indian national team. He is celebrated for his leadership and defensive skills.

Lazarus Barla, also known as Lajarus Barla, was born on April 11, 1979, in Tilaikani, which is close to Sundargarh in Odisha, India. He is a field hockey player and plays as a defender. He started playing for the Indian Men’s National Hockey Team in January 1998, when he first played against Germany. He also participated in the 2000 Summer Olympics held in Sydney, Australia, where India ended up in the seventh position.

Ignace Tirkey started playing for the national team in February 2001 at a tournament in Cairo. The first big event he joined was the Athens Olympics in 2004, where India came in seventh place. He also played for Services in club hockey.

Birendra Lakra, born on 3 February 1990, used to play field hockey for India. He took a break from playing, but now he’s back. He will lead the Indian men’s hockey team as their Captain in the Asia Cup in Jakarta, Indonesia. In the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, he was chosen as the Vice Captain of the Indian team. Birendra’s older brother Bimal also played hockey for India as a midfielder. His sister Asunta Lakra played for India’s women’s hockey team, even captaining the team. In 2021, Birendra received the Arjuna Award for his achievements.

Anuradha Biswal is a former athlete known for her excellence in hurdles. She has represented India in various international events, including the Olympics.

Budhia Singh, born in 2002, is a young runner from India. When he was just five years old, he did something amazing – he ran a very long distance of 65 kilometers (about 40 miles) from Puri to Bhubaneswar. It took him seven hours and two minutes to complete this run. Because of this incredible achievement, he was recognized as the world’s youngest marathon runner. In the year 2006, his name was put in the Limca Book of Records, which is a special book in India that lists impressive records. Budhia was also given a special award called the Rajiv Gandhi Award for being excellent in what he does.

A sprinter who has broken multiple records and barriers, Dutee Chand is a prominent name in Indian athletics. Her achievements on the track have earned her national and international acclaim.

Kalpana Dash was an Indian lawyer and mountaineer. She was born on July 7, 1966, and passed away on May 23, 2019. She achieved a remarkable feat by being the first person from Odisha, India, to reach the top of Mount Everest. This great accomplishment happened on May 21, 2008, when she climbed the mountain with a team of five people from the United States, Canada, and Nepal.

Before her successful climb in 2008, Kalpana had made two previous attempts to conquer Mount Everest. She tried in 2004 and again in 2006, but both times she couldn’t make it to the top because of challenging weather conditions and her health not being at its best.

Shiv Sunder Das is an Indian cricket player. He was born on November 5, 1977. He’s the third person from Odisha to play for India. He bats with his right hand and usually opens the game. He played cricket for Odisha’s team in matches that lasted many days. In 2000, he was chosen to join the National Cricket Academy in Bangalore. In the same year, he started playing Test matches for India.

Debasish Mohanty, born on July 20, 1976, used to play cricket for India. He was a bowler and played 2 Test matches and 45 One Day Internationals from 1997 to 2001. He was good at the shorter cricket games, taking more than 1 wicket per match and having an average of less than 30 runs per match. On December 24, 2020, he became a selector for the Indian cricket team.

Kelucharan Mohapatra, born on January 8, 1926, was a very famous dancer from India. He was really good at a type of traditional Indian dance called Odissi. He made this dance style popular again in the 1900s after it had become less known. He was so good that he got a big award called Padma Vibhushan from the state of Odisha.

A famous poet in India wrote about him: “When he danced, every part of his body looked so graceful and sweet, like magic poses. He was like a master of many different dance styles, like he crossed a big ocean of dance styles.” Sadly, he passed away on April 7, 2004.

Sanjukta Panigrahi was an Indian dancer who specialized in a classical dance called Odissi. She was born on August 24, 1944, and passed away on June 24, 1997. She was really good at this type of dance and became very well-known for it.

Sanjukta was the first woman from Odisha (a state in India) to start doing Odissi when she was young. She helped bring this traditional dance back into the spotlight. Because of her amazing dancing and her work in promoting this art, she received a big award from the Indian government in 1975. It’s called the Padma Shri.

In 1976, she got another award called the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award, which is also a big deal. Sanjukta didn’t just dance in India. She went to different countries like the US, the Philippines, the United Kingdom, Israel, and Greece to show people how beautiful Odissi dance is. She even performed in France for a long time and took part in a big music festival in Paris. Sanjukta Panigrahi made India proud with her wonderful dancing and her efforts to share her culture with the world.

In 2000, Saswat began learning Odissi professionally from Guru Padma Shri Kumkum Mohanty. He’s skilled in the Odissi style of Guru Kelucharan Mohapatra, who received the Padma Vibhushan award. Saswat was guided by Guru Ileana Citaristi too. He got a scholarship from India’s Ministry of Culture and used it to study Visharad at Chandigarh University. Rabindra Bharati University honored him with the title Sangeet Ratna. He performed at Musée Guimet in Paris, France in 2012 and also gave talks about Odissi at various universities.

Sujata Mohapatra was born in Balasore in the year 1968. When she was young, she began learning a traditional dance called Odissi from a teacher named Guru Sudhakar Sahu. Later, in 1987, she moved to Bhubaneshwar, which is in the state of Odisha, India, to continue her training. She learned from a very respected teacher named Padma Vibhushan Guru Kelucharan Mohapatra at a place called Odissi Research Center.

She got married to Ratikant Mohapatra, who is the son of Guru Kelucharan Mohapatra. Interestingly, their daughter named Preetisha Mohapatra also became skilled in Odissi dancing, just like her parents.

Akshaya Mohanty, also known as Khoka Bhai, was a person from India who was really good at singing and making up songs. He liked to write and play music in the Odia language. He made all kinds of songs like religious ones, traditional ones, songs for movies, and modern songs about things happening in Odisha. He was born in Cuttack on October 12, 1936. Even though he didn’t learn music formally, he was really talented. When he was 22 years old in 1956, he started working for the government in Cuttack. But after seven years, in 1963, he decided to leave that job. He also got a job at the radio station and was known for writing lyrics and making music there. He became famous for his work by 1959.

Bhikari Charan Bal, also known as Bhajan Samrat, was a famous person in Odisha. He was really good at singing and teaching Odissi music. He was most famous for singing special songs called bhajanas which are about the god Jagannatha. He lived from 1929 to 2010.

Arabinda Muduli, an Indian musician, singer, and writer of song lyrics, was born on September 1, 1961. He came from Khanati in the Khordha District of Odisha, India. He learned from Bhikari Bal and was a follower of lord Jagannath. Muduli focused on singing devotional songs (bhajans) and chose not to sing songs for movies, even though he received offers to do so. He passed away on March 1, 2018.

Sarbeswar Bhoi is a singer from Kalahandi, India. He’s known for singing traditional Sambalpuri folk songs. He sang songs like “Likri Jhkri” and “Lal Jhara Jhara” for the Sambalpuri movie called Aadim Vichar. This movie won a National Award in 2014 for being the best feature film in the Odia language category.

Sona Mohapatra is an Indian singer, composer, and lyricist. She makes her own songs and has also made new versions of songs by David Bowie and INXS. Her version of INXS’s “Afterglow” did really well.

Jitendra Haripal, a singer, is best known for his voice in the famous and super-successful Rangabati Song. This song is in the Sambalpuri language of Odisha. He sang this song together with female singer Krishna Patel. Jitendra Haripal has sung more than 1,000 songs and is considered one of the top performers of Sambalpuri language songs. He has performed on stage with other famous artists from the State, including the former Chief Minister Giridhar Gamang, who is also a skilled musician. In 2017, he was honored with the Padma Shri, which is the fourth highest civilian award in India, by the Government of India. This award was given to him in recognition of his contribution to Indian music.

Namita Agrawal is a well-known Indian singer and music composer primarily associated with the Odia music industry. Born on October 23, 1973, in Cuttack, Odisha, India, she is highly regarded for her contributions to Odia devotional and modern music.

Raghunath Mohapatra was an important person from India who was good at designing buildings and making sculptures. He was also chosen to be a member of the Rajya Sabha. In the past, he received awards like Padma Shri in 1975 and Padma Bhushan in 2001 for his great work. Later, in 2013, he was given the Padma Vibhushan award on India’s 64th Republic Day for his achievements. He passed away on 9th May 2021.

Sudarshan Sahoo was born on March 11, 1939, in Puri, Odisha, India. He is an artist who creates sculptures. He received important awards from the Indian government. In 2021, he was given the Padma Vibhushan, which is the second highest award, and in 1988, he received the Padma Shri, which is the fourth highest award.

Sudarshan Sahoo did not only make art, but he also started two places. In 1977, he began the Sudarshan Crafts Museum in Puri. Then, in 1991, he started the Sudarshan Art & Crafts Village in Bhubaneswar. The government of Odisha helped him with these projects.

Sudarsan Patnaik is a highly acclaimed Indian sand artist known for his remarkable contributions to the world of sand sculpture. Born on April 15, 1977, in Puri, Odisha, India, he has achieved international recognition for his intricate and awe-inspiring sand creations.

Sudarsan Patnaik’s journey in sand art began at a young age, and he quickly gained prominence for his exceptional talent and creativity. He has participated in numerous sand sculpture competitions and festivals around the world, where he has consistently won accolades and awards.

Nimai Harichandan was a revered Indian artist known for his exceptional contributions to the world of Pattachitra painting, a traditional art form from the state of Odisha. Born on December 4, 1924, in Raghurajpur, a village famous for its Pattachitra artists, Nimai Harichandan dedicated his life to preserving and advancing this intricate art form.

Prashanta Nanda was born on May 2, 1947, and he’s from Odisha, India. He does three main things: he directs movies, acts in them, and is involved in politics. Right now, he’s a member of the Rajya Sabha, which is like the high-level group in the Indian government. He represents Odisha there. Prashanta Nanda has done a lot of work in movies, especially in languages like Odia, Bengali, and Hindi. He used to be a minister in the government of Odisha too.

Sarat Pujari was a person from India who did different jobs like acting, directing, and making movies in the Odia film industry. He came from a place called Jhaduapada, Sambalpur. He was born on August 8, 1934, and passed away on May 12, 2014.

Mahasweta Ray is an actress from India. She’s famous for acting in movies and TV shows in the Odia language. She has won many awards for her performances, including a record 8 Odisha State Film Awards.

Uttam Mohanty is an actor from India who has been in over 135 Odia movies and 30 Bengali movies. He was also in one Hindi movie called “Naya Zaher.

Bijay Mohanty was a renowned Indian actor and director who primarily worked in the Odia and Hindi film industries. He was born on January 8, 1950, in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India, and he passed away on July 20, 2020.

Aparajita Mohanty is a prominent Indian actress, primarily known for her work in the Odia film industry. She was born on May 5, 1965, in Cuttack, Odisha, India.

Ajit Das was a prominent Indian actor and theater director, primarily known for his work in the Odia film and theater industries. He was born on April 4, 1948, in Dhenkanal, Odisha, India, and he passed away on June 11, 2020.

Mihir Das is a well-known Indian actor, predominantly active in the Odia film industry. Born on February 17, 1966, in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India, he has made significant contributions to Odia cinema through his versatile acting skills.

Jairam Samal was a renowned Indian actor, primarily known for his exceptional work in the Odia film industry. He was born on October 28, 1949, in Samalapur, Odisha, India, and his contributions to Odia cinema have left an indelible mark on the industry.

Siddhanta Mahapatra is a prominent Indian actor known for his significant contributions to the Odia film industry. Born on May 4, 1966, in Brahmapur, Odisha, India, he has garnered fame and admiration for his versatile acting skills and charismatic on-screen presence.