Renowned sculptor Adwaita Charan Gadanayak, nominated for the prestigious Padma Shri award, was felicitated by leading Odia daily, ‘Pragativadi’ at a ceremony held at the Golden Jubilee ground here on Monday.
Dr. Satyanarayan Mishra, a notable literary figure and director of the National Archives of India, attended the event as a special guest. Additionally, Dr. Mona Lisa Bal, Director of Pragativadi, presented the honour to Shri Gadanayak.
During his speech in response to the recognition, Shri Gadanayak shared that his connection with ‘Pragativadi’ spans many years, describing himself as part of the ‘Pragativadi’ family. He credited Pradyumna Bal, the Founder Editor of ‘Pragativadi,’ as a significant source of inspiration during his college years and expressed pride in reconnecting with the family after some time.
“My bond with stone is ancient; it’s like my grandfather”
Shri Gadanayak expressed, “My bond with stone is timeless; it feels like my grandfather to me. I don’t see the stone as merely an object. My connection with it runs deep. I sense its presence, and it senses mine. I cherish stone, and it cherishes me in return. I discover my inner tranquillity within the stone, and it guides me.”
These are the words of Adwaita Charan Gadanayak, an architectural wizard who has earned recognition both nationally and internationally for his deep understanding of stone. He reflects on his childhood, sharing that his mother used to refer to him as a silent stone, perhaps explaining the profound nature of his relationship with it.
The esteemed artist from Odisha, recently nominated for the Padma Shri award, elaborated on his bond with stone during a ceremony organized by ‘Pragativadi’ on Monday evening. According to Shri Gadanayak, stone is the oldest element; it holds the power to preserve all things. He believes that stone is a living entity that existed long before life emerged in the universe.
Stone has always advised living beings in their quest for shelter and survival. Long ago, when humans could not speak or comprehend language, ancient beings communicated their stories through carvings on stone. Even in contemporary times, people associate places they visit with a higher power they believe in.
Gadanayak asserts that stone is the medium through which individuals can connect with that supreme energy. This connection explains why we place stones within rings, or why we feel compelled to kiss sacred stones in places like Mecca and Medina. In Jerusalem, we reach out to touch the stone wall, just as we embrace the Garuda pillar at the Shri Jagannath temple, which is also made of stone.
This practice of using stone as a conduit to connect with divine energy transcends time; even in ancient times, sages would meditate upon stones. The stone upon which Swami Vivekananda imparted his teachings on spirituality still stands before us today. Ultimately, the stone serves as a vital connection to spiritual power.
Brief Introduction:
Shri Gadanayak was born on April 23, 1963, in Neulapoi village, located in the Dhenkanal district. He completed his early education at B.B. High School in Dhenkanal and then pursued his college studies at Athagarh College. Following that, he enrolled at Bibhuti Kanungo College of Art and Crafts. Afterwards, he continued his education at the University of the Arts in Delhi.
During his time there, he faced several challenges but overcame them to impress everyone with his remarkable large stone sculptures. He furthered his studies at the Slade School of Fine Arts at University College London in the UK.
Shri Gadanayak has travelled extensively around the globe, acquiring deeper insights into various art cultures and showcasing his artistic talent, which has been met with great acclaim. A few years ago, his trip to Japan left him profoundly impacted. The interactions with local artists and their art were particularly enlightening.
In 2016, he was appointed as the Director General of the National Gallery of Modern Art, becoming the youngest and the first person from Odisha to attain this position. He received the National Academy of Fine Arts Award in 1993 and the Odisha Academy of Fine Arts Award in 1999. Additionally, he has been honoured with the Scottish International Sculpture Award and numerous other awards at both national and state levels.
