The Odisha State Museum, a repository of the state’s rich historical and cultural legacy, continues to serve as a powerful symbol of Odia Asmita, said Ekamra MLA Babu Singh while addressing at the 68th Foundation Day celebrations of Odisha State Museum.
Attending the programme as the chief guest, Singh said the museum has played a significant role in preserving and presenting Odisha’s glorious past in an engaging manner. Highlighting its contribution to the promotion of Odia art, literature, culture and heritage, he said the institution has emerged as a major centre of attraction for visitors and a source of inspiration for the younger generation. He also extended his greetings to the officers and staff of the museum on the occasion.
As part of the celebrations, the MLA offered floral tributes to the wheels of the three sacred chariots—Taladhwaja, Darpadalana and Nandighosha—displayed in the museum premises. He later inaugurated a special exhibition featuring rare personal belongings and documents of renowned Bhakta Kabi Madhusudan Rao, giving visitors a glimpse into the life and legacy of the eminent poet.
The programme also saw the release of two scholarly publications, “Odisha Historical Research Journal” and “Odia Abhilekha Sankalana”. Eminent artist Shri Surendra Meher was felicitated for his contribution to art and culture, while prizes were distributed to meritorious students who excelled in competitions organised as part of the foundation day celebrations.
In a special gesture to mark the occasion, the museum remained open to the public with free entry throughout the day.
The event was attended by several distinguished personalities, Ex-Principal Commissioner, Income Tax Manoranjan Panigrahi, former Chairman of the National Monument Authority, Professor Kishore Kumar Basa and Special Secretary of the Odia Language, Literature and Culture Department Deba Prasad Dash. Superintendent of the Odisha State Museum Dr. Bharati Pal, conducted the proceedings.
