KISS Deemed to be University organized a seminar on ‘Gopabandhunka Kabitare Biswa Prema’ on the occasion of the 94th Death Anniversary of Utkalamani Gopabandhu Das. It was organized under the aegis of Gopabandhu Das Research Chair on 29th June 2022. The event was attended by Senior Functionaries, Professors Emeriti, Faculty Members, Research Scholars and Students of KISS-DU.
In his welcome address, Professor Deepak Kumar Behera, Vice-Chancellor, KISS-DU described Utkalamani Gopabandhu as a role-model for others as he had dedicated his life for elevating the sufferings of the down-trodden. Professor Behera also mentioned his seminal contributions during the time of natural calamities like flood and famine.
Professor Bijayananda Singh, Chair Professor, Gopabandhu Das Research Chair introduced the distinguished guest, Shri Ranjan Kumar Das, I.A.S., Director and Additional Secretary, Department of Odia Language, Literature and Culture, Govt. of Odisha. He also introduced the concept note of the seminar.
Highlighting the lifestyle of Gopabandhu Das, Shri Ranjan Kumar Das said that his life was full of dedication and service towards mankind. Gopabandhu Das tried to translate his ideas into action for the betterment of a new world-order. His love for mankind is reflected in poems like ‘Bandira Atma Katha’, ‘DharmaPada’, ‘KaaraKabita’ and ‘Nachiketa Upakhyana’. A true Odia is one who is above narrow regionalism and blind beliefs, he added. He explained Utkalmani Gopabandhu Das’s beliefs and spoke about universal-brotherhood. Shri Das concluded by saying that Gopabandhu’s rishi-like lifestyle is unique in this world and he remains ideal for others.
Dr. Nibedita Mohanty moderated the session and Dr. Prashanta Kumar Routray, Registrar, KISS-DU proposed the word of thanks.