Marg Asia, a journal exploring links between Asian countries and Odisha, was released at a function here on Thursday. The journal is an initiative of Bhubaneswar-based Centre for Asian Studies.
Speaking on the occasion, Jatindra Kumar Nayak, professor of English in Utkal University, who is also associated with the Centre for Asian Studies, said Marg Asia aims at providing an Odishan perspective on Asia.
“Odisha had close ties with several Asian countries like China, Indonesia, Cambodia, Burma, Sri Lanka and Malaysia. The Asian civilisation, languages and cultures have received little attention in academic institutions of Odisha,” he said, adding that Marg Asia is a measure in the direction of understanding these aspects of Odisha-Asia relationship.
“Our colonial past has disposed us to be Eurocentric and to ignore the world which has shaped our view over the centuries. It is time for our Asian heritage to be reclaimed through employment of various perspectives,” he said.
Releasing the journal, eminent Indian poet and literary critic Sitakanta Mohapatra said a journal like Marg Asia is the need of the hour as it can explore the Asian civilisation, culture, history and literature.
Among others, theatre activist Ananta Mohapatra, former diplomat Abasar Beuria, poet Bibhu Padhi and senior artist Dinanath Pathy were present.