World Poetry Day & World Down Syndrome Day
21 March 2025
Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, Bhubaneswar
On the occasion of World Poetry Day and World Down Syndrome Day, Ketaki Foundation Trust, in collaboration with Swabhiman, hosted a heartfelt evening that blended literary celebration with meaningful advocacy. The event brought together poets, scholars, and changemakers to reflect on the beauty of poetry and the importance of creating inclusive spaces for individuals with Down Syndrome.
The evening began with opening remarks by Rabindra K Swain, setting the tone for a program rooted in compassion, creativity, and community. Pabitra Mohan Kar moderated the sessions, guiding discussions that emphasized the relevance of poetry in today’s world and the need for greater awareness and inclusion.
A session dedicated to World Poetry Day featured a special tribute to legendary poet Ramakanta Rath, acknowledging his immense contributions to literature. This was followed by a segment on World Down Syndrome Day, where speakers explored the everyday challenges and support systems essential for individuals with Down Syndrome to thrive.
A powerful poetry recitation session enriched the evening, featuring an ensemble of celebrated voices from Odisha’s literary community. Among the participating poets were Ashutosh Parida, Saqti Mohanty, Saroj Bal, Subhasree Subhasmita Mishra, Sangram Jena, Kedar Mishra, Badal Mohanty, Swapna Mishra, and Basudev Sunani. Also reciting were Pabitra Mohan Kar, Ramakanta Samantaray, Srisikta Suvadarsini Nayak, Manua Das, Bharati Parida, and Manasi Rout. Each poet brought their own rhythm and reflection to the stage, celebrating the enduring power of poetry and paying homage to Ramakanta Rath.
The event concluded with the release of the much-anticipated book Subhadranka Aakhi by acclaimed writer and poet Jagannath Prasad Das. The unveiling was met with appreciation and applause, marking another milestone in Odisha’s literary journey. Kapilash Bhuyan delivered the closing note, thanking all the contributors and guests who made the evening memorable.
This event beautifully reflected Ketaki Foundation Trust’s mission to promote literature, cultural dialogue, and inclusive community engagement.
Eminent poet and journalist Kedar Mishra brought the pulse of our times into his recitation, where thoughtful words met deep empathy, gently echoing the evening’s message of inclusion.
With gentle words, senior poet Manua Das once again carried a deep poignance through human stories, his poetry touched hearts and echoed the essence of the day.
Subhasree Subhasmita Mishra, known for her bold feminist voice, brought a softer yet deeply powerful tone to the gathering. yet her words carried a powerful message of inclusion and empathy.
Poet Ashutosh Parida, known for his thoughtful expression, presented his poem with calm poise, leaving a gentle impact aligned with the day’s message of inclusion and empathy.
Renowned poet Saroj Bal, known for his direct and truthful expression, was presented with a memento by Rabindra Kumar Swain, Trustee of Ketaki Foundation Trust and a writer himself.
Poet Pabitra Mohan Kar, bringing his signature thoughtfulness and emotional depth to the programme, was honoured with a memento by Jyoti Ranjan Swain, Managing Trustee of Ketaki Foundation Trust.
Poet Srisikta Subhadarsini Nayak was presented with a memento by Geetanjali Swain, Trustee of Ketaki Foundation Trust, in recognition of her meaningful poetic contribution.
Poets Basudev Sunani and Shakti Mohanty were seen among the audience, alongside children with Down Syndrome, their parents, and other guests, quietly sharing in the spirit of the evening.