Recognising the Voices of Odia Literature
The Sahitya Akademi, India’s premier literary institution, has announced the winners of its prestigious 2024 awards in the Odia language category, highlighting excellence in both mainstream and children’s literature. The awards include the Sahitya Akademi Award, Yuva Puraskar, and Bal Sahitya Puraskar—each celebrating unique contributions to the Odia literary landscape.
This year, the honours go to Baishnab Charan Samal, Subrat Senapati, and Rajkishore Padhi for their respective works in essays, short stories, and children’s literature.
Spotlight on Winners and Their Works
Sahitya Akademi Award 2024 – Baishnab Charan Samal
Renowned essayist Baishnab Charan Samal has been selected for the Sahitya Akademi Award for his essay collection Bhuti Bhakti Bibhuti. Known for his scholarly insights and deep reflections on spirituality, culture, and human values, Samal’s work stands out for blending tradition with contemporary discourse. His essays have helped deepen the philosophical underpinnings of Odia non-fiction literature.
Yuva Puraskar – Subrat Senapati
Subrat Senapati receives the Yuva Puraskar, an award given to authors under 35, for his short story collection Kadambana. Senapati’s narratives explore modern existential dilemmas, social undercurrents, and youthful angst. His writing style is marked by raw emotion and intricate characterisation, marking him as a rising voice in contemporary Odia fiction.
Bal Sahitya Puraskar – Rajkishore Padhi
Children’s author Rajkishore Padhi is awarded the Bal Sahitya Puraskar for Kete Phula Phutichhi, a vibrant collection aimed at young readers. Padhi’s storytelling combines moral lessons with creativity, using accessible language and imaginative settings to instil cultural pride and curiosity in the younger generation.
Award Ceremony and Recognition
Each winner will receive a cash prize of ₹50,000 and an engraved copper plaque, presented during a formal ceremony will be scheduled a later date to nurturing and promoting Indian languages and their literary traditions.
The Yuva Puraskar and Bal Sahitya Puraskar are particularly important in shaping future generations of writers and readers. By supporting young authors and children’s literature, the Akademi ensures the literary flame is passed down and rekindled with fresh voices.
A Literary Landscape in Bloom
These awards mark an important milestone for Odia literature, showing how the language continues to evolve while remaining rooted in its cultural ethos. The diversity of genres—from philosophical essays to modern fiction and children’s tales—reflects the richness and versatility of Odia writing.
It also indicates an increasing national recognition of regional literature, especially in an era where linguistic diversity faces homogenising pressures. The awarded works are not just literary triumphs—they are cultural artefacts preserving Odia identity in an ever-globalising world.
Celebrating Stories That Shape Us
The Sahitya Akademi recognitions are more than individual victories—they are a celebration of the power of language, imagination, and introspection. Whether through Samal’s contemplative prose, Senapati’s compelling fiction, or Padhi’s child-friendly narratives, these authors embody the living spirit of Odia literature.
As we applaud their achievements, we’re reminded that literature remains one of our most enduring tools for understanding society, kindling thought, and bridging generations. In honouring these voices, the Sahitya Akademi not only rewards talent—it ensures our stories continue to grow, inspire, and endure.
(With agency inputs)
