Bhubaneswar, June 30: The 591st coronation anniversary of the legendary Gajapati ruler Kapilendra Deva was celebrated as "Gajapati Divas" at the MKCG Auditorium of Utkal University in Bhubaneswar on Monday, with historians, scholars and dignitaries paying tribute to one of Odisha's greatest emperors.
The commemorative programme was jointly organised by the Odisha Sahitya Akademi and the Beyond Heritage Trust.
Odisha's Minister for Odia Language, Literature and Culture, Suryabanshi Suraj, inaugurated the event as the chief guest. He also unveiled a special exhibition, "War, Emperor and Eternal: Gajapati Kapilendra Deva," highlighting the life, military achievements and enduring legacy of the medieval monarch.
Addressing the gathering, the Minister described Kapilendra Deva as a symbol of courage, visionary leadership and cultural pride, stating that his reign played a defining role in strengthening Odisha's political identity while promoting the Odia language, heritage and traditions.
As part of the celebrations, a documentary titled "Lakhe Raja Ra Mauda Mani: The Glorious Story of Gajapati" was screened, tracing the remarkable journey and achievements of the illustrious ruler.
The event also featured two panel discussions on "Revival of Research and Education in the Context of Odisha's Glorious History" and "From Regional Hero to National Symbol," where scholars emphasised the need to promote research on Odisha's rich historical legacy and its contribution to India's civilisational heritage.
Several eminent personalities attended the programme, including Cuttack MP Bhartruhari Mahtab, Padma Shri awardee Adwaita Gadanayak, historian Prof. Kuldeep Chand Agnihotri, former National Manuscript Mission Director Prof. Prafulla Kumar Mishra, Utkal University Vice-Chancellor Prof. Chandi Prasad Nanda, and Odisha Sahitya Akademi Secretary Dr. Chandra Sekhar Hota.
