First-Ever Odisha Tribal Poets’ Meet Held in Bhubaneswar

Bhubaneswar: The first-ever tribal poets’ meet was organized in Bhubaneswar featuring the participation of 48 poets from diverse tribal backgrounds. The event took place at the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes Research and Training Institute (SCSTRTI). Jagannath Saraka, Minister of ST & SC Development, Minorities and Backward Classes Welfare Department, and Law, expressed pride in showcasing the rich history and cultural heritage through poetry on Janjatiya Gaurav Divas.

Highlighting the significance of the occasion, Saraka emphasized that this state-level gathering of tribal poets marks a momentous occasion. He mentioned the Odisha Tribal Empowerment and Livelihood Program (OTELP), which focuses on the development of 30 backward blocks in Gajapati, Kalahandi, Kandhamal, Koraput, Malkangiri, Nabarangpur, and Rayagada districts.

Das Benhur, Editor of Sargiful, underscored the importance of compassion in literature, stating that poetry, especially from tribal communities, emerges from a deep connection with nature. Indramani Tripathy, director of SCSTRTI, announced that poems recited by renowned poets representing various tribal communities would be published in a special edition.

During the two-day meet, 24 poets presented their work, representing tribes such as Binjhal, Koya, Kui, Saora, Paraja, Lanjia, Gond, Kuvi, Gadaba, and Desia. Samarendra Bhutia, OSD of SCSTRTI, conducted the program, while deputy director Santosh Rath welcomed the guests, and assistant director Madhusmita Sahoo offered the vote of thanks.