The prestigious Sarala Award was conferred on well-known litterateur Achyutananda Pati at a function here on Saturday.
The award comprising a citation, a plaque and ` 2.5 lakh in cash was presented to Pati by eminent writer Shirsendu Mukhopaddhyaya, the chief guest for the event.
The Sarala Award, 34th in the series, was presented to Pati for his significant contribution towards enrichment of Odia literature through his writings, in particular his book ‘Cha’ru Chaitanya Parjyanta’ penned in 2008.
Pati has written several stories including ‘Kahani Nuhe Kabya’, ‘Asubha Putra ra Kahani’, ‘Sikta Saikata’ and essays revolving around the under-priviledged section of society and nature. His first short story ‘Plus O Minus’ was published in ‘Asanta Kali’ back in 1952.
Two other eminent personalities, singer Pranab Kishore Patnaik and Pattachitra and palm leaf engraving artist Gokula Bihari Patnaik were also felicitated on the occasion for their contribution to music and art respectively. They received a cash award of Rs 51,000, a plaque and a citation each.
On the occasion, 87-year-old Pati said, “These days, there is a lot of lobbying for any award which is never healthy for creative growth of a writer.”
Several literary personalities, apart people from various walks of life were present at the award presentation ceremony at Jaydev Bhawan. Sarala Award is instituted by Indian Metals Public Charitable Trust (IMPaCT), an organisation established by the IMFA Group.
Santanu Acharya, working president of IMPaCT, spoke about the contributions made by the awardees in their respective fields. Paramita Mohapatra, trustee of IMPaCT was present.