Bhubaneswar, July 9: Emphasising the need to preserve and promote Odisha's rich cultural heritage in the digital era, renowned linguist and Padma Shri awardee Dr. Debi Prasanna Pattanayak on Thursday called for credible information on the state's landmarks, cultural icons, festivals, and traditional cuisine to be made globally accessible through digital platforms.

Speaking at the inaugural session of Parichaya, a two-day workshop organised by the Odisha Virtual Academy (OVA), he also lauded the Academy's efforts to strengthen and sustain the Odia language in the digital age.

The workshop went down at the CYSD auditorium, drawing delegates from districts across the state. The attendees brainstormed and discussed the state's famous spots, legendary figures (both past and present), cultural events, festivals, and local culinary heritage.

Dr. Pradeep Kumar Rout, Secretary of the Academy, chaired the opening session and connected the dots between culture and cash flow. He pointed out that promoting Odisha's unique places, institutions, food, and traditional attire strengthens local economies. More importantly, it gives the younger generation a direct stake in the state's economic growth.

The event featured intense discussions across four main sessions. Key resource speakers included Dr. Ajay Kumar Mishra, Dr. Abhiram Biswal, Dr. Shantanu Kumar Rath, Manas Muduli, and Ritu Patnaik.

The wrap-up session featured insights from CYSD founder Jagadananda, OCAC General Manager Sabyasachi Hota, and Odisha Knowledge Corporation MD Dr. Manoranjan Pothal. Delegates were honored with traditional 'Angavastra' stoles for their contribution. Smrutiranjan Mishra, Senior Manager at the Academy, presented the vote of thanks. The two-day event was supported throughout by key officials and advisors, including Srinibas Mishra, Dr. D.N. Mohanty, Debanand Bhanja, Sachidananda Panda, Suryaranjan Mohanty, and Surya Mishra.