Chandrasekhar Rao Memorial Lecture

4th Chandrasekhar Rao Memorial Lecture 2024

16th September, 2024
Odisha State Museum, Bhubaneswar

The 4th Chandrasekhar Rao Memorial Lecture was organized by Ketaki Foundation Trust on 16th September, 2024 evening at Odisha State Museum Auditorium, Bhubaneswar in the presence of many dignitaries, artists, art lovers, litterateurs, and media personnel. Live broadcasting of the event was witnessed by netizens on Facebook.

Dr. Pradosh Mishra, Professor, Department of History of Art, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi presided over the function, sharing his insights into the enduring legacy of Chandrasekhar Rao. Bibhu Patnaik, eminent painter based in New Delhi graced the occasion and delivered the 4th Chandrasekhar Rao Memorial Lecture. His discourse ‘Odia Parampara Dwara Anupranita Samakalina Chitrabhasha: Eka Bibechana’ delved into the life and works of the Master Painter of yore Chandra Sekhar Rao. He emphasized the importance of contemporary art and the promotion of Odia art and culture. Chandrasekhar Rao, a prolific painter, and educator, was deeply rooted in the art and culture of Odisha. His comprehensive knowledge of classical and popular painting, and his signature style of art form Kala Rasa Bandha along with it he also emphasized on the works of Benudhar Mahapatra on traditional elements used in Pattachitra remains exemplary.

Dr. Bhagyalipi Malla, museologist, writer-columnist, Superintendent of OSM, Odia Language Literature & Culture Department, Odisha graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. She expressed her admiration for the works of Chandrasekhar Rao and highlighted the importance of recognizing and nurturing Odia talents in the fields of art and culture. It was a great evening with the presence of many noted painters, students of Chandrasekhar Rao, writers, and poets. The brief introduction, welcome address and Vote of Thanks was given by Sri Ramahari Jena.

Ketaki Foundation Trust is dedicated to publishing, preserving, promoting art, culture, and literature of Odisha. KFT endeavours to support and promote outstanding works through publications and other initiatives, making a significant contribution to society. To further its aims and objectives, the Trust has successfully executed several projects across diverse fields. KFT is also actively participating in philanthropic activities like training students with disabilities, providing art therapy to elders in Old Age homes, and sponsoring education to needy tribal students.