The Odia Bhasha Divas was observed here with much enthusiasm on Wednesday. Speaking at a function organised jointly by the Odisha Sahaitya Academy and the District Cultural Council, district Collector Md Sadique Alam highlighted the glorious history and heritage of Odia language and called upon the youths to cherish the language and preserve it.
“The only reason for the 2,700 year-old Odia language to get classical status is it is not only an ancient language but has also shaped the history of the State in various ways,” he said.Nabarangpur MlA Manohar Randhari said it is an honour for the people of Odisha that Odia got the recognition of a classical language.
Chief speaker Dr Bijaya Mishra said, “After receiving the status of classical language, we have to meet a new challenge of preserving and promoting Odia.” Among others, Pradeep Hota from the Sahitya Academy, ADM laxmidhar Das, District Culture Council secretary and DIPRO Haldha Nial spoke.