Bhubaneswar, Aug. 20 (UDN): Noted Odia poet and former CSIR-IMMT scientist Dr Ashutosh Parida has been chosen for the 47th Sarala Puraskar for his acclaimed poetry collection Bishwas De Pruthwi.

 Pic Credit: x.com/MahalingMukesh

Published by Prabha Publication in 2024, the collection has been recognised for its contribution to contemporary Odia literature. Dr Parida will receive a citation and a cash prize of Rs 7 lakh at an award ceremony scheduled for October 25.

The Sarala Puraskar is conferred annually by Indian Metals Public Charitable Trust (IMPaCT), the social wing of IMFA, to recognise outstanding literary works in Odia.

Kala Samman for Three Artists

The Ila-Bansidhar Panda Kala Samman was also announced alongside this year’s Sarala Puraskar.

Odissi exponent and Padma Shri awardee Durga Charan Ranbir, along with artist and art educator Damodar Behera, will be honoured for their contributions to Odisha’s art and cultural heritage.

Each recipient of the Kala Samman will receive a citation, Rs 2.5 lakh in cash and a copper plaque.

CM Congratulates Dr Parida

Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi congratulated Dr Parida on being selected for the prestigious literary award.

The Chief Minister said the poet’s contribution to the enrichment and promotion of the Odia language and literature is significant, describing the honour as a recognition of his distinguished literary journey.

The selection of Bishwas De Pruthwi for the 47th Sarala Puraskar further highlights the continuing evolution of contemporary Odia poetry and its growing recognition within the state’s literary tradition.