History and heritage continue to shape our future, as scholars emphasised during the second anniversary celebration of the Dhenkanal Heritage Walks (DHW).
Experts at the event underscored the need to cherish the past, as our cultural identity fuels growth and progress.
Temple architecture specialist Professor Sanjay Acharya took the audience on a captivating journey through Odisha’s architectural evolution. Highlighting the patronage of various dynasties, he noted that each generation refined the Kalingan style, resulting in a highly sophisticated artistic expression. Acharya also discussed how Odisha’s maritime connections led to the replication of its temple architecture in Southeast Asia.
The gathering, held at Old Zilla Parishad Auditorium in Dhenkanal, saw enthusiastic participation from history students and dignitaries, including Dipak Samantarai, Aparna Dhir, Narendra Singh Bharadwaj, and Sanjay Baral. Bharadwaj stressed the importance of respecting heritage, expressing concerns over modern redevelopment practices that distort historic structures. Samantarai urged educational institutions to prioritise heritage awareness, while Baral advocated for deeper discussions on Odisha’s Sun Temple at Konark, quoting renowned historian Dr. Charles Loues Fabri, who believed Konark might have eclipsed the Taj Mahal in global recognition had it been discovered earlier.
The event concluded with the felicitation of prominent individuals who have contributed to heritage preservation. Scholars, writers, and history enthusiasts reinforced the importance of safeguarding Odisha’s rich cultural legacy for future generations.
