First Jayanta Mahapatra Memorial Lecture
22 October 2024
Geeta Govinda Sadan, Bhubaneswar
Celebrating the Legacy: 1st Jayanta Mahapatra Memorial Lecture On October 22, 2024, Ketaki Foundation Trust (KFT) hosted the inaugural Jayanta Mahapatra Memorial Lecture at Geeta Govinda Sadan in Bhubaneswar. This momentous event brought together distinguished dignitaries, writers and literature enthusiasts to honour the profound impact of the legendary Indian English poet.
The evening began with Rachita Swain welcoming guests and introducing the program. Rabindra K. Swain, noted poet and KFT trustee, presided over the meeting, highlighting Jayanata Mahapatra’s remarkable contributions to poetry and announcing that the lecture would become an annual tradition for KFT.
Renowned poet, novelist and journalist Mamang Dai, a Padma Shri and Sahitya Akademi Awardee from Arunachal Pradesh delivered a captivating keynote address. In her speech, she reflected on Jayanta Mahapatra’s enduring influence on her life and the literary community, celebrating his legacy and the strong ties he maintained with poets from the North-East.
The event also featured Devdas Chhotray, a prominent figure in literature, who shared cherished memories of his association with Jayanta Mahapatra. He discussed how the late poet inspired the younger generation of Odia writers, further emphasizing the significance of Mahapatra’s work.
Acclaimed poets, including Manua Dash, Kedar Mishra, Basudev Sunani, Pratikshya Jena and Probal Majumdar, brought Mahapatra’s poetry to life by reciting selected works in both Odia and English, each adding their unique flair to the readings. The event was streamed live on Facebook, allowing poetry lovers far and wide to partake in this celebration of Mahapatra’s life and legacy.
Ketaki Foundation Trust is dedicated to preserving and promoting Odisha’s art, culture and literature. KFT actively engages in philanthropic initiatives, supporting education for underprivileged students and providing art therapy for the elderly, contributing significantly to the community.
Photos: Ashis Dhir
All the esteemed guests, including speaker Mamang Dai, chief guest Devdas Chhotray, and poets Kedar Mishra, Manua Dash, Basudev Sunani, Pratikshya Jena, and Probal Majumdar, along with the trustees and members of the Ketaki Foundation, gathered to honor the legendary legacy of Jayanta Mahapatra.
Our chairperson, Rabindra K. Swain, addressed the audience, sharing his cherished memories with Jayanta Mahapatra and expressing deep appreciation for his significant contributions to the world of poetry and literature.
Keynote Speaker Padma Shri & Sahitya Akademi Awardee, Ms. Mamang Dai, delivered an inspiring speech, sharing how Jayanta Mahapatra’s poetry has profoundly influenced her literary path and enriched her creative expression.
The guest of honour Devdas Chhotray spoke about his times with the legendary poet Jayant Mahapatra and he also spoke about the life and works of the late Jayanta Mahapatra, highlighting his influence on the younger generation of Odia poets and his unwavering dedication to poetry
Jyoti Ranjan Swain the Managing Trustee of Ketaki Foundation Trust presented Mamang Dai with a memento, while Pratikshya Jena adorned her with a beautiful traditional khadi stole.
Jyoti Ranjan Swain, Managing Trustee of Ketaki Foundation Trust, presented Devdas chhotray with a beautiful momento and a traditional stole hounoring the chief guest.
Kedar Mishra passionately recited a poignant poem by Jayanta Mahapatra, paying tribute to the enduring legacy of the celebrated poet and reflecting on the profound impact his work has had on literature and culture of odisha.
Basudev Sunani delivered a heartfelt recitation of a powerful poem by Jayanta Mahapatra, celebrating the lasting legacy of the esteemed poet and emphasizing the significant influence his work has on literature and culture.
Manua Dash shared an emotional recitation of a stirring poem by Jayanta Mahapatra, honoring the timeless legacy of this esteemed poet and highlighting the profound impact his work has had on literature and culture.
Pratikshya Jena was honoured with a beautifully painted coconut shell in Pattachitra, along with a memento presented by the speaker Mamang Dai.
Probal Majumdar received a stunning coconut shell adorned with Pattachitra artwork, accompanied by a memento from keynote speaker Mamang Dai.
Dignitaries, art lovers, and esteemed poets like Mamata Das, Rajendra Kishore Panda, and Sandeep Sahoo graced the audience, honouring the legendary legacy of Jayanta Mahapatra.