The School of Comparative Tribal Languages and Literatures (SCTLL), in collaboration with the Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC), KISS Deemed to be University (KISS- DU), celebrated Bharatiya Bhasha Diwas on 11th December, 2024. The event was a grand celebration of India’s rich linguistic diversity and heritage. KISS-DU organized a plethora of activities in this two-day celebration starting from 10th December 2024.
The program commenced with the unveiling of the Wall Magazine showcasing different Indian languages by Professor Deepak Kumar Behera, Vice Chancellor, KISS-DU. In his inaugural address, Professor Behera spoke passionately about KISS-DU’s initiatives in promoting tribal languages and literature, emphasizing the university’s mission to preserve and promote the linguistic heritage of indigenous communities.
The event featured student segments like poetry recital and speech, reflecting the diversity of Indian languages. In an innovative initiative, the University (under Project K-MUSE) also organized a Santali Storytelling Session wherein the students focussed on the dire need for preserving, protecting and promoting Indigenous languages. The session was graced by Professor Jen WEBB, a distinguished Professor of Creative Practice at the University of Canberra, Australia.
Professor Jatin Kumar Nayak, Professors Emeriti, KISS-DU advocated the use of AI and Machine Translation in today’s Hi-Tech Advanced Era to promote the preservation and revival of endangered languages. Professor Raghunath Panda, Professor Emeriti delved into the philosophical and cultural aspects of language. He spoke about the role of language as a medium for intellectual and cultural expression and its critical role in shaping societal narratives.
On the occasion, various competitions were organized in the university premises; including Song Competition, Essay Writing Competition, and Debate Competition. The program included a Prize Distribution Ceremony to recognize and honour the prize winners and participants for their achievements. The event also witnessed a Signature Campaign by the participants.
Dr. Prashanta Kumar Routray, Registrar of KISS Deemed to be University; Professor Jugal Kishore Mishra, Director, IQAC; and Dr. Rasmita Tripathy, Associate Professor, Department of Odia, SCTLL, KISS-DU also spoke on the occasion. The event concluded with a Vote of Thanks delivered by Dr. Chittaranjan Bhoi, Associate Professor and Dean, SCTLL. The celebration of Bharatiya Bhasha Diwas at KISS DU was a resounding success, reflecting the university’s dedication to preserving and promoting India’s linguistic heritage. The event not only highlighted the cultural and intellectual wealth of Indian languages but also inspired the academic community to take active steps toward their preservation.