Bhubaneswar: Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik today demanded the Centre to provide a suitable land in Delhi for construction of `Odisha Cultural Centre and Library’ for fulfilling the long-felt need of the Odia people residing in Delhi.
In a letter to Hardeep Singh Puri. Minister of State (Independent Charge) of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, the Chief Minister said that people from the State don’t have a suitable permanent building/space in Delhi where they can show-case their talent and craftsmanship.
There is also a sizeable presence of Odia diaspora in Delhi, who are interested in the preservation and promotion of various cultural forms. It will also attract tourists-both domestic and foreign, popularizing the practitioners and providing them with viable livelihood options, the CM said.
Naveen said, “Odisha has a rich heritage and a vibrant culture. Home to a sizeable tribal population and agrarian-rural community, Odia culture has evolved indigenously, depicting deep sensitivity of the indigenous community to nature, sentimental relationship between the tiller and his land and unconditional devotion of the devotee for the Lord. The entire state-whether it be western part or the coastal area ; the southern region or northern parts, have unique cultural practices, that needs patronage and promotion. They lend colour, variety and diversity to the rich cultural fabric of the country. Odissi dance has achieved world-wide acclaim; Odia language is recognized as one of the six clasgical languages in the country; Odia cuisine, textile, handloom / handicrafts and our rich tribal art and culture are known for their flavor, texture and uniqueness”.
In fact, states like Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, apart from their Bhawan/ Niwas, have been provided space for hosting cultural/ and social events, the CM highlighted in his letter.
“In the context of the above, I would be grateful if the Central Government allots suitable land for the purpose and oblige”, Naveen said.