Odisha celebrates Sambalpuri Day honouring language icon Guru Satya Narayan Bohidar

Bhubaneswar, Aug 1: The vibrant cultural mosaic of Odisha remains incomplete without acknowledging the distinct charm of its regional dialects, music, colours, and diversity. Among them, the Sambalpuri language holds a special place, not only for its lyrical tone but also for its unique cultural significance across the western districts of the state.

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Every year on August 1, 'Sambalpuri Day' or 'Sambalpuri Din' is observed with great enthusiasm to commemorate the birth anniversary of the legendary linguist and scholar Guru Satya Narayan Bohidar—regarded as the torchbearer of the Sambalpuri language and literature.

Born on August 1, 1913, in the undivided Sambalpur district, in what is now Sonepur, Guru Bohidar displayed an early passion for literature. The son of Mitrabhanu Bohidar and Bilasbati Bohidar, he grew up immersed in the cultural essence of Sambalpur, nurturing a deep appreciation for the region’s art, history, and linguistic traditions.

Sambalpuri, predominantly spoken in the districts of Sambalpur, Bolangir, Jharsuguda, Kalahandi, Boudh, Sundargarh, Deogarh, Nuapada, and Subarnapur, is known for its distinctive pronunciation and cadence, setting it apart from mainstream Odia. Once considered a dialect, Sambalpuri began receiving formal recognition thanks to the pioneering efforts of Guru Bohidar.

His magnum opus, the Sambalpuri Bhasakosh,a comprehensive dictionary of the Sambalpuri language—laid the foundation for linguistic identity and preservation. In addition to this seminal work, Bohidar authored several literary pieces including Tik Chahnra (1975), Ghuvkudu, Ghavghavo, and numerous poems, which collectively enriched the literary heritage of Western Odisha.

Guru Bohidar passed away at the age of 67 on December 31, 1980, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire generations of language lovers, artists, and scholars.

Sambalpuri Day is celebrated with grandeur across the state, especially in Western Odisha, where people come together dressed in vibrant Sambalpuri handloom attire, performing traditional music and dance to honour their cultural roots.

As Odisha continues to embrace and promote its linguistic diversity, Sambalpuri Day stands as a powerful reminder of the importance of regional identity and the enduring legacy of a man who gave voice and structure to a language spoken by millions