In an effort to take Odisha’s spiritual ethos to the international stage, scholars, researchers, and cultural experts gathered in Bhubaneswar for a comprehensive day-long workshop dedicated to the multifaceted dimensions of Shree Jagannath Consciousness.
Organised under the aegis of the Odia Virtual Academy, the event served as a collaborative platform to deliberate on the history, philosophy, art, and traditions surrounding Lord Shree Jagannath.
Presiding over the valedictory session, Dr Pradeep Kumar Rout, Secretary of the Odia Virtual Academy and CEO of OCAC, emphasised the importance of engaging the younger demographic in the digital era. He noted that leveraging modern digital platforms to archive and disseminate credible research will inspire future generations to connect deeply with their roots. The programme was seamlessly conducted by workshop convenor Dr Krushna Keshab Sarangi and coordinator Dr Bhubanananda Adhikari.
Exploring Multifaceted Traditions
The workshop featured intensive deliberations across two sessions, covering a vast spectrum of subjects central to the Jagannath cult:
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Philosophy and Evolution: Tracing the historical evolution of Shree Jagannath philosophy and its diverse philosophical interpretations.
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Rituals and Heritage: In-depth discussions on Nabakalebara, temple architecture, art, sculpture, and the intricate ritualistic service systems.
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Arts and Culture: The manifestation of Jagannath in Odia and Sanskrit literature, classical dance, music, traditional Beshas (attires), crafts, and the sacred Matha tradition.
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Global Outreach: Exploring the widespread spiritual resonance of Shree Jagannath Consciousness across borders.
A Collective Call for Action
A large assembly of eminent scholars and domain experts—including Asit Mohanty, Bhaskar Mishra, Mrutyunjaya Rath, and Manaswini Mishra, alongside district representatives—shared their unique insights. The dialogue underscored an urgent need to systematically document and safeguard the intellectual and spiritual dimensions of the tradition.
Senior technical managers, advisors, and academy officials, including Smruti Ranjan Mishra and Srinibas Mishra, also contributed to the event’s success. By combining academic rigour with digital outreach, the Odia Virtual Academy’s initiative marks a pivotal step toward cementing Shree Jagannath Consciousness in global cultural discourse.
