The 33rd Sarala award was presented to Hrushikesh Panda for his novel ‘Garba Karibara Katha.’ The award was given to Panda by noted Hindi writer and Kendra Sahitya Academy vice-president Viswanath Prasad Tewari on Friday.
The award, instituted by the Indian Metals Public Charitable Trust (IMPaCT), aims at recognising and encouraging talents in the field of art and literature.
IMPaCT founder Bansidhar Panda said, “Odia literature has developed a lot in the past few years. Odia literature needs to be translated and promoted at the global level.” Hrushikesh was elated at receiving the award. He said he got involved in writing during the early stages of his life.
“I had heard about the prestigious Sarala award in the past. But I realised the importance of this award when I was told in September that I would be receiving it this year. It was the response that I received from the people I know after the announcement that made me truly happy,” Hrushikesh said.
Along with Hrushikesh, social worker Padma Charan Nayak and musician Banamali Maharana were also felicitated on the occasion. IMPaCT secretary Rajkishore Mishra was present during the award ceremony.