What Are the Highlights of Odisha CM's Year-Long Celebrations for the Ol Chiki Script Centenary?
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Synopsis
Odisha's Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has declared a year-long celebration for the 100th anniversary of the Ol Chiki script, acknowledging its significance in Santali culture. This initiative includes educational reforms, a library, and memorial sites dedicated to its inventor, Pandit Raghunath Murmu. Discover the cultural impact of this celebration!
Key Takeaways
- Odisha's Chief Minister has announced year-long celebrations for the Ol Chiki script's centenary.
- The celebrations commemorate the legacy of Pandit Raghunath Murmu.
- Initiatives include educational reforms, a new library, and memorial sites.
- The event promotes the importance of indigenous languages.
- A special budget of Rs 50 crore has been allocated for these initiatives.
Bhubaneswar, May 12 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Odisha, Mohan Charan Majhi, declared a year-long celebration throughout the state to commemorate the centenary of the 'Ol Chiki' script, which serves as the writing system for the Santali language.
During a special event at Mahuldiha village in Rairangpur, Mayurbhanj district, the Chief Minister made this announcement as part of the centenary festivities for the Ol Chiki script and the 120th birth anniversary of its creator, Guru Gomke Pandit Raghunath Murmu.
In his address, CM Majhi remarked: "Pandit Murmu symbolizes more than just an individual; he embodies a movement, a consciousness, and a visionary in art and culture. Celebrating 100 years of the Ol Chiki script is not merely a tribute to a literary innovation; it is a recognition of the language, culture, and identity of an entire indigenous community."
He emphasized that Murmu's creation of the ‘Ol Chiki’ script marked a significant milestone in cultural development.
Majhi further noted that Pandit Murmu transcended the role of a knowledge bearer; he unveiled the intrinsic values of this land. He underscored that language represents more than communication; it signifies identity, existence, and expression. Communities that cherish their language naturally advance.
“Ol Chiki stands as a testament to that pride, bolstering the community through education, unity, and culture,” Majhi stated.
The Chief Minister reiterated the state's dedication to the advancement of the Santali language through initiatives in primary education, textbook preparation, teacher training, and linguistic research.
He indicated that Pandit Murmu's name has been integrated into Odisha's educational and cultural frameworks.
“The path illuminated by Pandit Murmu remains a guiding light for the Santali community. I hope future generations continue to honor his values, knowledge, and love for culture,” the Chief Minister concluded, urging for mutual respect and harmony among diverse languages, faiths, and cultures.
On this occasion, the Chief Minister also announced the organization of an international seminar aimed at promoting and spreading the Santali language.
He disclosed plans for establishing the ‘Ol Chiki’ library in Baripada, making all works authored by Pandit Murmu accessible to the public.
Additionally, he announced the construction of the Pandit Raghunath Murmu Open Theatre-Museum and a heritage building at his workplace to honor Murmu.
Majhi also shared that Pandit Murmu’s ancestral home in Dandbose will be transformed into a Memorial Pilgrimage Site.
A special package of Rs 50 crore has been announced to support these initiatives.
Point of View
The initiatives by Odisha's government reflect a strong commitment to preserving indigenous languages and cultures. By celebrating the Ol Chiki script, the state not only honors its creator, Pandit Raghunath Murmu, but also promotes the importance of linguistic diversity as a cornerstone of India's rich heritage. This approach serves as a model for other regions in the country to recognize and celebrate their own linguistic and cultural identities.
NationPress
17/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Ol Chiki script?
The Ol Chiki script is a writing system developed for the Santali language, created by Guru Gomke Pandit Raghunath Murmu.
Why is the Ol Chiki script important?
It is significant as it represents the language, culture, and identity of the Santali community, promoting their heritage.
What events are planned for the centenary celebrations?
The celebrations include educational initiatives, the establishment of a library, an international seminar, and memorial sites.
What is the budget allocated for these celebrations?
A special package of Rs 50 crore has been announced to support the centenary celebrations and initiatives.
Who was Pandit Raghunath Murmu?
He was the inventor of the Ol Chiki script and a significant figure in promoting the Santali language and culture.
