CBS Office
23 Sept 2023
Gifted Exceptional Classical Odia Books to the Odisha Government State Library
In a commendable act of generosity, Dr. Chandra Bhanu Satpathy Ji has contributed over a thousand highly significant and rare classical books and magazines in the Odia language to the Harekrushna Mahatab State Library in Bhubaneswar, Odisha.
Numerous books in this collection are over a century old, and they include highly antique and rare volumes covering Odia grammar, literature, novels, and magazines. The Government of Odisha has thoughtfully preserved these treasures in a dedicated room within the State Library.
On September 23, 2023, Dr. Satpathy Ji officially inaugurated the library room in the presence of Shri Satyabrata Sahu (IAS), Additional Chief Secretary of the Odia Language Literature & Culture Department, and Advocate General Ashok Parija.
Dillip Routray, the Director of Culture, along with other senior officials from the Department of Odia Language Literature and Culture, graced the occasion with their presence.
Shri Sahu orchestrated the complete setup, aiming to facilitate a multitude of Odisha's students who visit the State Library in pursuit of knowledge.
The books generously donated by Dr. Satpathy Ji contain crucial information pertaining to the state's art, culture, history, literature, and socio-economic conditions. Dr. Satpathy Ji expressed that these valuable resources will be of significant benefit to students, researchers, and the general public.
Dr. Satpathy mentioned that these old books had been kept in his personal library in Noida, Uttar Pradesh. Numerous national and international organizations expressed interest in acquiring them, but Dr. Satpathy's preference was to offer them as a donation to the state of Odisha. The books were gathered by Dr. Satpathy Ji and his late father, Gokul Chandra Satpathy.
During this event, Dr. Satpathy Ji honored the individuals responsible for bringing these rare and significant books to Odisha.
Addressing the gathering, Shri Sahu emphasized that books are akin to the wealth of a nation, and every measure has been implemented to ensure the proper preservation of these invaluable volumes.
The State Library stands as one of Odisha's leading libraries. It serves as a hub for countless students and young individuals diligently preparing for a wide range of competitive exams. It has the capacity to accommodate a substantial gathering of at least 500 students concurrently, providing them with a conducive study environment.