September 15th 2024.
The late 20th century was a remarkable time for Odia literature, as it saw the rise of numerous books that redefined the literary landscape. From poetry to plays, these works left a lasting imprint on the Odia literary canon. In this listicle, we will take a closer look at some of the most influential Odia literary works published between 1987 and 1997, and explore their contributions to the language and literature.
One of the standout collections from this period was 'Omkar Dhwani' by Ramachandra Behera. Published by Friends publishers from Cuttack, this book stood out for its innovative use of language and depth of themes. In fact, it was even awarded the prestigious 'Sarala Puraskar' in 1991, recognizing its significant contribution to Odia literature.
Another notable work from this time was Hrushikesh Mallick's 'Dhaana Saunta Jhia'. This poem marked a significant shift in Odia poetry, as it redefined the portrayal of rural characters, particularly focusing on a girl from a marginalized community. This shift heralded a new era in Odia poetry, expanding its thematic scope and emotional depth. Esteemed critic and literary historian Ramesh Panigrahi remarked, "With Mallick's poems, Odia poetry takes a turn from urbanization to ruralization, from culture to nature, from the cooked to the raw."
'Patadei' by Binapani Mohanty, published by Vidyapuri, Cuttack, is arguably the most celebrated work of her literary career. This book received the 'Kendra Sahitya Akademi Award' in 1990 and became a defining piece in Mohanty's repertoire, establishing her as a prominent voice in Odia literature.
'Ho Bhagate' by Subodh Patnaik, published by Panchamukhi Publications, Cuttack, is a unique play that explores spiritual consciousness through a distinct lens. The play is noted for its introspective approach and originality in both conceptualization and presentation.
In 'Akash Jeunthi Katha Kahe', Susmita Bagchi delves into the comparison between urban modernity and nature. Her narrative style reflects a continuous evolution, positioning her as a formidable force in contemporary Odia literature.
'Athaya Surya' by Haraprasad Parichha Patnaik features poems like 'Phanas Punjira Kabita' and 'Mahulabanara Geeta' that stand out in the post-1980s Odia poetry scene. The rhythm, meter, and emotional resonance of these poems make a significant contribution to Odia literature.
Pratibha Satpathy's 'Shabari', published 14 years after Naresh Mehta's Hindi work of the same name, surpasses its predecessor in both language and thematic structure. This work has become a cornerstone in Odia poetry, with its protagonist embodying the essence of the Earth rather than just a character from the Ramayana.
'Deshakala Patra' by Jagannath Prasad Das, published by Bijay Book Store, Bhubaneswar, is a meticulous chronicle of Odisha's cultural history from 1885 to 1907. The book has been praised for its detailed portrayal of the era and is considered one of Das's most significant contributions to Odia literature.
'Ghat' by Kanishka, published by Pine Kulpa, Cuttack, is a novel set against the backdrop of a rural college. It explores the moral decay and sexual deviance of the younger generation. The novel's stark realism was later echoed in the Kendrapara sex scandal, and it has even been adapted into a serial for Doordarshan.
Finally, 'Mu, Ambhe O Ambhe mane' by Ramesh Prasad Panigrahi, published by Bijay Book Store, Berhampur, is an experimental play that examines how an individual's neglect of their family can lead to tragic outcomes. Panigrahi, a key figure in modern Odia theatre, follows in the footsteps of Manoj Das in shaping contemporary drama.
These works represent the diversity and richness of Odia literature during a transformative period. Each author brought a unique perspective to their writing, contributing to the broader narrative of Odia culture and history. Their legacies continue to inspire and influence new generations of writers and readers alike.
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