Marking the auspicious occasion of the world-famous Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath, Suvadra Art Gallery, Bhubaneswar, successfully concluded its seven-day National Art Exhibition titled “Mo Manara Jagannath” with a vibrant closing ceremony at the premises of the Odisha State Museum, Bhubaneswar.
The concluding event beautifully blended visual art, poetry, and devotional music, celebrating the timeless spiritual and cultural legacy of Lord Jagannath. A special highlight of the evening was the Jagannath Poetry Festival, which brought together renowned poets and literary personalities from across Odisha.
Former Member of Parliament Dr. Prasanna Kumar Patasani attended as the Chief Guest and spoke about the profound influence of Lord Jagannath on Odia culture, literature, art, and spiritual traditions. He highlighted how Jagannath philosophy continues to unite people through creativity, faith, and cultural heritage.
The event was graced by several distinguished guests, including senior BJP leader Shri Golak Prasad Mohapatra, former Bhubaneswar MLA Shri Priyadarshi Mishra, Founder of Suryakshetra Foundation Dr. Bipin Mishra, Founder of Jai Odisha Shri Rudra Samantray, eminent artist and sculptor Shri Ravi Narayan Rath, Superintendent of the Odisha State Museum Smt. Bharati Pal, Principal of Dhauli College of Art Shri Prasanna Samal, and noted poet and writer Dr. Mihir Kumar Sahu. All the dignitaries appreciated the unique initiative of bringing together art, literature, and devotion under one platform.
One of the most memorable segments of the celebration was the Jagannath Poetry Festival, where more than 50 eminent poets recited their original compositions dedicated to Lord Jagannath. The poetry session was gracefully conducted by lyricist Dr. Prasanna Nayak and renowned poet Kananbala Pattnaik, creating a deeply spiritual and literary atmosphere.
Presiding over the programme, Er. Surya Rath, Chairman of Suvadra Art Gallery, reaffirmed the gallery’s commitment to promoting Indian art, culture, and heritage. He also announced the gallery’s vision to organise international exhibitions of Jagannath-themed artworks, taking Odisha’s rich artistic traditions to audiences across the world.
During the event, participating artists and traditional craftsmen were felicitated for their valuable contributions. The felicitation programme was coordinated by Ashok Nayak, Director of Suvadra Art Gallery.
The occasion also paid heartfelt tribute to the late poet and author Shankar Parida, who had served as an advisor to the gallery. His remarkable literary and cultural contributions were remembered with respect, while his wife, Smt. Shubha Nayak, was honoured in recognition of his enduring legacy.
The seven-day exhibition featured an impressive collection of Jagannath-inspired artworks by both established and emerging artists from different parts of Odisha. A special attraction was the participation of 20 traditional Pattachitra artists from the heritage crafts village of Raghurajpur, led by master artist Akash Sain, who showcased Odisha’s rich classical painting tradition.
The exhibition received an overwhelming response from art lovers, literature enthusiasts, devotees, and the general public, who appreciated the unique convergence of fine arts, poetry, and devotion.
The programme was coordinated by Smt. Minati Rath, Editor of Suvadra Trust; Shri Manoj Nayak, Editor; Smt. Puja Dakua, Gallery Secretary, who ensured the smooth conduct of the event. The vote of thanks was delivered by Smt. Debasmita Mohanty, Vice-Chairperson of Suvadra Art Gallery.
Executive Committee
- Er. Surya Rath – Chairman
- Debasmita Mohanty – Vice-Chairperson
- Puja Dakua – Secretary
- Ashok Nayak – Director
- Rajmata Dr. Deepti Devi – Creative Director
- Susmita Das – Cultural Director
The successful conclusion of “Mo Manara Jagannath” reaffirmed the enduring relevance of Lord Jagannath as a symbol of faith, creativity, and cultural unity. By bringing together artists, poets, scholars, and devotees, the event celebrated Odisha’s rich heritage while opening new avenues for taking Jagannath-inspired art and culture to the global stage.
