The Seafarers’ Association of Odisha (SAO), a common deck for the entire marine fraternity of the State, organised a maritime seminar marking its foundation day here on Sunday.
MlA and Ollywood actor Akash DasNayak joined the event as chief guest while ex-Additional DG of Shipping Dr Purnendu Misra and former CMD of the Dredging Corporation of India Dhiren K Mohanty were guests of honour. The speakers highlighted the rich maritime heritage and art of navigation and marine trade by Indian seafarers, especially from the ancient kingdom of Kalinga and subsequently Odisha.
Association president NC Sarma presided over the function. General secretary Alok Patra highlighted the importance and reasons of having the SAO in the State. On the occasion, the body also released its first edition of annual magazine SAO lighthouse. Many eminent personalities were felicitated on the occasion. A cultural show was also held.