Sambalpuri Day Celebrated at Central University of Odisha

Koraput: The students of the Central University of Odisha (CUO), Koraput, celebrated Sambalpuri Day on 13 August 2026 with great enthusiasm and cultural fervour. The programme was graced by Prof. Ajit Kumar Shasany, Vice Chancellor, Central University of Odisha, as the Chief Guest.

The celebration featured an address by the Vice Chancellor followed by a vibrant cultural programme presented by the students.
Addressing the gathering, Prof. Shasany highlighted the profound significance of language as a medium of human expression and cultural identity.

He observed that language is not merely a means of communication; it carries the culture, traditions, feelings and behavioural patterns of a community.

Preserving and celebrating a language, therefore, is also a way of preserving and celebrating the cultural heritage associated with it.
Speaking about the significance of Sambalpuri Day, the Vice Chancellor noted that the occasion is generally observed on 1 August and is closely associated with Guru Satya Narayan Bohidar, who played an important role in the development and promotion of Sambalpuri language and literature.

He emphasised that remembering such cultural figures is essential for understanding the journey of a language and appreciating the contributions of those who devoted themselves to its enrichment and preservation.
Expressing his happiness at being part of the celebration, Prof. Shasany said that he was delighted to witness the vibrant atmosphere created by the students through their traditional attire, customs and cultural expressions.

He appreciated the students for bringing the richness of Sambalpuri culture into the university space and transforming the occasion into a meaningful celebration of cultural identity.
The Vice Chancellor also used the occasion to underline the importance of “Unity in Diversity,” one of the defining characteristics of Indian civilisation.

He observed that students and members of the university community may come from different regions, districts and States, and may speak different languages and follow different cultural traditions, but they remain united by a common identity—that of being Indians.

He described this shared identity as the essence of Indianness.

Referring to the Indian civilisational ideal of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam”, meaning the world is one family, Prof. Shasany encouraged the students to appreciate their local cultural roots while remaining open to the wider world.

He exhorted them with the message: “Act locally and think globally.” The Vice Chancellor’s address thus connected the celebration of Sambalpuri language and culture with a larger vision of cultural pluralism, national unity and global outlook. He encouraged the students to take pride in their linguistic and cultural heritage while simultaneously developing an inclusive and universal perspective.

The programme concluded with a colourful cultural function presented by the students, featuring traditional cultural expressions and performances. The celebration provided an opportunity for the university community to appreciate Sambalpuri language, traditions and cultural heritage while reaffirming the values of diversity, unity and cultural pride. The programme was attended by Faculty and students of the University and coordinated by Dr Minati Sahoo, Dean, Students’ Welfare.