Latest news with #Koshali
New Indian Express
29-06-2025
- Politics
- New Indian Express
Efforts must be made to preserve Haldhar Nag's writings, says Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan
BARGARH: Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Saturday described eminent Koshali poet Haldhar Nag as 'a shining jewel of India and a symbol of Odisha's identity, emotion, and expression'. Addressing a two-day national seminar titled 'Haldhar - Sajan Aar Darshan,' he said the poet's contribution to enriching Sambalpuri language and literature is unparalleled and continues to inspire generations. Organised jointly by Abhimanyu Sahitya Sansad, Ghens, and Krishna Vikash Group of Institutions, Bargarh, the seminar marked a significant effort to take Sambalpuri literature to a pan-Indian platform. The multilingual event saw attendance by literary scholars from both within and outside Odisha. It brought together scholars, researchers, and literary enthusiasts from across the country to delve into the cultural and philosophical legacy of the iconic poet, often hailed as the pride and poetic spirit of Odisha. Describing Nag's work as rich in philosophy and deeply rooted in cultural wisdom, Pradhan stressed the need for broader efforts to preserve and promote his writings at all levels. 'Literature is a tool that activates the consciousness of an individual. It constantly stirs intellectual waves and builds new emotions. While not everyone becomes a writer, literature resides in everyone. Its need is universal,' said Pradhan while addressing the gathering. He further emphasised the importance of imparting education in mother tongues to nurture original thinking and creativity among students. On the occasion, several books, anthologies, and collections based on Haldhar Nag's life and literary works were unveiled. Higher Education and Culture minister Suraj Suryabanshi, local MPs, MLAs, and public representatives were also present at the inaugural session.
New Indian Express
27-06-2025
- Entertainment
- New Indian Express
Haldhar Nag's ‘Raag Chana' spices up Rath Yatra at Ghens in Bargarh
BARGARH: As the chariots roll down the Grand Road in Puri and other parts of Odisha during Rath Yatra, the nondescript village of Ghens in Bargarh district eagerly looks forward to something more than the divine festival. Here, spirituality is served with a side of spice. Alongside the festivities, villagers and visitors alike queue up for a taste of the iconic 'Raag Chana Ghugni' - spicy yellow pea curry - a humble delicacy prepared and sold by none other than Koshali poet and Padma Shri Haldhar Nag. Clad in his signature white dhoti, Nag sets up a modest stall near his Kabi Kutira during the Rath Yatra. The scene is simple: An earthen stove, steel vessels, and the fragrance of ground masalas. But the emotion behind it is profound. As the aroma of his hand-cooked Raag Chana fills the lanes, devotees stop by not just for a meal, but for a memory. What surprises many outsiders is that the man behind the ladle is Nag, who was honoured with the Padma Shri in 2016 by then president Pranab Mukherjee for his literary contribution to Sambalpuri literature. Yet, for villagers of Ghens, this scene is familiar. Decades ago when Nag had no means to support his family financially, he began selling Raag Chana to survive. And alongside stirring the curry, he also stirred hearts with his poetry. Locals claim there's something magical about the blend; perhaps it is the poet's closely guarded secret. However, Nag laughs it off. 'There is no secret. It's just a desi recipe passed down through experience and instinct. I use a few hand-pounded masalas, fresh turmeric, and rustic cooking methods.
