The Mahabodhi Society State unit has been reorganised after seven years. Former Utkal University of Culture Vice-Chancellor Dr Bimalendu Mohanty has been appointed president of the Odisha Mahabodhi Society.
During the unveiling of the news portal of vernacular daily The Samaj, recently, Dr Mohanty was felicitated by loksevak Mandal national president Deepak Malavya and KIIT and KISS founder Dr Achyuta Samanta.
Samant said besides being a good human being, Mohanty has vast knowledge of Buddhism along with his knowledge about Odisha’s culture. He has written many books on Buddhism in English and Odia. He said, “I am elated over Mohanty’s appointment. I am sure the Odisha Mahabodhi Society will reach greater heights and its popularity will grow.”
The newly-elected committee led by Mohanty has 12 members. The international managing committee on March 25 has given its approval to the committee. This was informed in a letter by international general secretary of the society Seoli Thero to the Odisha Mahabodhi Society.
Dr Mohanty in his reply to the felicitation said he has been immensely encouraged by Venerable Seoli Thero and Dr Samanta to carry on his research works on Buddhism.