Bhubaneswar: Odisha Governor Dr. Hari Babu Kambhampati on Friday felicitated Padma Shri awardees-designate, a Kendriya Sahitya Akademi Award recipient, and successful candidates of the Indian Civil Services Examination 2025, along with their parents, at a special programme held at New Abhishek Hall in Bhubaneswar.
Addressing the gathering, the governor described the programme as a celebration of excellence, creativity, dedication, and public service. He said achievements in literature, culture, education, and administration serve as an inspiration for society and reflect commitment towards nation-building.
In a post on X, he said: “Their achievements reflect dedication, perseverance, creativity, and service to society. Odisha’s rich cultural heritage, literary excellence, and talented youth continue to strengthen the vision of a progressive and empowered India.”
Among those honoured were Mahendra Kumar Mishra for his contribution towards documenting and preserving Odisha’s tribal folklore and cultural heritage, Charan Hembram for promoting Santali language and culture, noted Prahallada Nataka artist Simanchal Patra, and Sarat Kumar Patra for preserving Odisha’s traditional art and handloom heritage. All four have been nominated for the Padma Shri Awards 2025.
Kambhampati also felicitated Girija Kumar Baliarsingh, who received the Sahitya Akademi Award for his poetry collection “Padapurana”. During the programme, the governor highlighted the importance of literature in preserving collective memory and inspiring future generations.
Successful candidates from Odisha in the Indian Civil Services Examination 2025 and their parents were also honoured during the event. The governor praised the contribution of parents in shaping the success of young achievers and urged the future administrators to work with integrity, compassion, and dedication towards public welfare and the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.
Governor’s Commissioner-cum-Secretary Dr. Roopa Roshan Sahoo delivered the welcome address at the programme. Cultural performances were also organised, while several awardees and achievers shared their experiences during the event.
