Poet Ashutosh Parida to get this year’s prestigious Sarala Puraskar
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Renowned Odia poet and former scientist Ashutosh Parida has been selected for the prestigious Sarala Puraskar for his 2024 poetry collection, 'Bishwas De Pruthwi'. The award, presented by the Indian Metals Public Charitable Trust, recognizes excellence in Odia literature with a cash prize of ₹7 lakh.
Celebrating Literary Excellence: The Sarala Puraskar 2024
The literary landscape of Odisha is set to celebrate a significant milestone as poet, essayist, and former scientist Ashutosh Parida has been named the recipient of the prestigious Sarala Puraskar for the current year. This annual award, which has become a hallmark of distinction in Odia literature, recognizes the profound creative contributions of authors who continue to enrich the regional cultural tapestry.
The Winning Work: 'Bishwas De Pruthwi'
At the center of this recognition is Parida’s latest poetry collection, Bishwas De Pruthwi, published by Prabha Publication in 2024. The work was meticulously evaluated by the Indian Metals Public Charitable Trust (IMPaCT), the charitable wing of the industrial major Indian Metals and Ferro Alloys Ltd (IMFA). The committee lauded the collection as an 'inspiring compendium,' highlighting its unique voice and thematic depth that resonated strongly with the judging panel.
A Legacy of Institutional Support
The Sarala Puraskar serves as a vital bridge between the industrial sector and the arts in Odisha. By institutionalizing this award, IMFA has consistently encouraged intellectual growth and creative expression within the state. This initiative highlights a broader trend of corporate social responsibility extending into the cultural domain, ensuring that esteemed writers like Parida receive the platform and recognition necessary to sustain the Odia literary tradition.
The Selection Process and Competition
The path to this year’s victory was highly competitive, reflecting the high standard of contemporary Odia writing. The final round of judging involved a rigorous selection process, featuring seven notable works, including Aparna Mohanty ka Payeen Kabita by Aparna Mohanty and Dahana Pada Bama Pada by Padmaja Pal. Parida’s selection from such a distinguished shortlist underscores the exceptional quality of Bishwas De Pruthwi.
The Upcoming Recognition
The award ceremony, scheduled for October 25 in Bhubaneswar, will formally honor Parida’s contributions. He will be presented with a citation, a copper plaque, and a cash reward of ₹7 lakh. This event not only celebrates the individual achievement of a former scientist at CSIR-IMMT but also reaffirms the importance of literature in the public consciousness of Odisha, signaling a vibrant future for the state's poets and intellectuals.
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