Bhubaneswar, Nov 7: The ‘Odia Asmita Bhawan’ is set to be constructed in front of ‘Akshara Bhoomi’ within the Kalamaṇḍala premises in Bhubaneswar’s Gajapati Nagar. This new building will celebrate and showcase the grandeur of Odia culture, aiming to display the dignity of Odisha to the entire region. According to Odia Language Literature & Culture Department minister Surjyabanshi Suraj, this dream, which the government has promised to fulfill, is now on the verge of becoming a reality.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to visit Odisha on November 15, during which he will inaugurate various projects, including the foundation-laying ceremony for the Odia Asmita Bhawan.’ The land for Akshara Bhoomi, which spans over 4 acres, had been embroiled in disputes, however, now the land has come into government possession. The building will not just be a government office; it will serve as a comprehensive display of Odisha’s heritage. Facilities will be set to exhibit the state’s culture from a 360-degree perspective. The structure will feature four to five floors, each dedicated to different aspects of Odisha and the ‘Odia Asmita.’ One floor will focus on indigenous tribes, another on tourism, and other floors will present information about notable personalities through various mediums.
Additionally, virtual and digital displays will showcase Odisha’s culture comprehensively. For such initiative, the government has allocated a budget of Rs 200 crores, as stated by Minister Suraj. The Akshara Bhoomi was inaugurated during the first World Odia Language Conference held from February 3 to 5 earlier this year. The complex features stone inscriptions beautifully carved with Odia letters, with a large representation of the letter ‘Aa'(‘ଅ’) prominently displayed. This installation, adorned with modern LED lighting, makes the letters even more attractive in the evening. The ‘Akshara Bhoomi’ area is designed with an arch similar to the one found at the Mukteshwar Temple, featuring the large Odia letter ‘Aa’ that draws attention.
