A significant milestone has been achieved as Utkal Sammilani marks its 120th year of service. Founded under the leadership of Utkal Gourav Madhusudan Das and presided over by Mayurbhanja Maharaja Sri Ramachandra Bhanjadev in 1903, the inaugural meeting took place on December 30 and 31 at Idga Padia, Cuttack. Originally slated to be chaired by Sir Sudhal Deb, the Maharaja of Bamanda, his untimely demise led to the invitation of the Maharaja of Mayurbhanj to preside over the historic gathering.
Prior to this inaugural meeting, two other meetings were convened in 1902 and 1903 in Rambha and Brahmapur, with Sri Harihara Mardaraj and Sri Shyama Sundar Rajguru serving as presidents, respectively. The primary objective of Utkal Sammilani was the creation of the State of Odisha by uniting various Odia-speaking regions, emphasizing the importance of consolidating Odias within one geographic boundary to preserve their identity. Notable figures such as Parala Maharaja Krushna Chandra Gajapati Narayan Dev, Vyasakabi Fakir Mohan Senapati, Utkalmani Pandit Gopabandhu Das, and Pandit Neelakantha Das played pivotal roles in this endeavour.
In 1936, on April 1, Odisha became the first linguistic State to be formed prior to India's independence, achieving the main goal of Utkal Sammilani. However, the organisation continued its activities post-State formation. The continued relevance of Utkal Sammilani becomes apparent when considering the circumstances surrounding the linguistic boundaries. Despite the State's creation, many Odia-speaking villages, including Sadhaikala and Kharasuan, could not be integrated into Odisha during the merger of kingdoms post-independence.
Even during the formation of States like Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand, Odia-speaking villages could not be seamlessly incorporated into Odisha. As a consequence, a significant Odia-speaking population resides outside Odisha's boundaries, resulting in a loss of language and cultural ties. Recognizing this, Utkal Sammilani, in collaboration with the Odisha Government, has taken the initiative to establish Odia schools known as Odia Lipisikhya Kendra.
Examining the State's current boundaries, particularly in the context of the ongoing Kotia village clusters dispute, reveals the ongoing role of Utkal Sammilani. The case, filed in 1968, remains unresolved, reaching the Supreme Court of India. Meanwhile, neighbouring States such as Chhattisgarh and West Bengal have encroached upon Odisha's territories, raising concerns about places like Shahabajipur Bustand, Udayapur seashore, and Shankhamedipur village.
Despite Odia being the official language within the State, it faces neglect, even on signboards. Utkal Sammilani recognizes the increasing responsibility to address these issues. The involvement of proactive and dynamic youth is seen as crucial to bringing about positive changes, honoring the vision of Utkal Gourav Madhusudan Das.
In conclusion, Utkal Sammilani has completed a commendable 120 years of service since its inception in 1903. Originally founded with the noble goal of uniting Odia-speaking regions to form the State of Odisha, the organisation has evolved to address contemporary challenges.
Despite the successful formation of Odisha as the first linguistic State in 1936, Utkal Sammilani continues to play a vital role in preserving the linguistic and cultural identity of Odia-speaking people.
The current landscape presents challenges, such as the ongoing dispute over Kotia village clusters, encroachment by neighbouring States, and the neglect of the Odia language within the State itself. However, with the dedicated efforts of Utkal Sammilani and the potential involvement of dynamic youths, there is optimism for positive change and the realization of the organization's founding principles.
In celebrating 120 years, Utkal Sammilani stands as a testament to the enduring commitment to the welfare and cultural integrity of the Odia-speaking community.
(General secretary, Utkal Sammilani; Mob No- 9938537600)
