Gangadhar Meher Jayanti Celebrated in Dharmagarh: Speakers Highlight the Poet’s Deep Connection with Nature and Social Consciousness

Dharmagarh: The birth anniversary of renowned Odia poet and ‘Swabhaba Kabi’ Gangadhar Meher was celebrated with literary fervour and solemnity at Panchayat College, Dharmagarh. The programme was jointly organised by the Kalahandi Lekhak Kala Parishad, Bhawanipatna, and Panchayat College, Dharmagarh. The Jayanti celebration was held at the college auditorium under the chairmanship of In-charge Principal Nimai Charan Patra. Educationist and noted writer Pratap Kishore Mund attended the programme as the chief guest, while retired professor Dr. Harekrushna Meher was the chief speaker. Dr. Dasharathi Acharya, Kalahandi Lekhak Kala Parishad president Umesh Chandra Panda and secretary Bhabanath Rayaguru were present as distinguished guests. The programme began with a welcome song and Meher compositions performed by students of the Bhawanipatna Music College, creating a rich literary and cultural atmosphere. In his address, chief speaker Dr. Harekrushna Meher discussed the social realities reflected in Gangadhar Meher’s literary works and highlighted their continued relevance in contemporary society. Chief guest Pratap Kishore Mund elaborated on the poet’s profound love for nature and the remarkable presence of nature-consciousness in his writings. At the concluding session, prizes were presented to the successful participants of the previously organised speech and essay-writing competitions based on the life and literary contributions of Gangadhar Meher. Head of the Odia Department Ganapati Bag coordinated the programme, while lecturer Sadaya Pradhan proposed the vote of thanks. Professor Saroj Kumar Panda, other faculty members of the college, students of the Odia Department and senior members of the Kalahandi Lekhak Kala Parishad attended the event. Odia lecturer Dinabandhu Bag and lecturers Anjali Majhi and Bithika Manjari Thakur extended their cooperation in making the programme successful.