The Big Book of Odia Literature, published by Penguin Random House, is more than just an anthology rather it’s a celebration of diverse literary traditions of Odisha. Spanning nearly 750 pages, this compilation brings together a wide array of works that have shaped the Odia language and its literature over the last 600 years.
Edited by the bilingual poet and editor Manu Dash, this volume illuminates the enduring legacy of Odia literature, offering an in-depth exploration of the evolution of one of India’s classical languages.
A monumental task of curation
In this anthology, Dash has taken on the monumental task of selecting and translating literary works spanning from the 15th to the 20th century. His efforts have not only made these literary treasures accessible to an English-speaking audience but also ensured their preservation for future generations.
The collection is thoughtfully divided into four sections ‘poetry, short stories, plays, and essays’ each meticulously curated to capture the diverse voices and themes that have shaped Odia literature over the centuries.
The evolution of Odia language and literature
The Odia language, one of India’s six classical languages, has a history that mirrors the cultural and social evolution of Odisha. It evolved from Old Indo-Aryan languages and began to take shape as a distinct language by the 14th century. Odia literature, with its roots in ancient oral traditions, blossomed into a rich and varied body of work that has been continually enriched by poets, scholars, and thinkers.
The Big Book of Odia Literature, Manu Dash, Penguin, 2024.
The journey of Odia literature is deeply connected with the spiritual and cultural heritage of Odisha. Over the centuries, it has been influenced by various religious movements, particularly the Bhakti movement, which brought forth a wave of devotional poetry and prose. This period saw the rise of iconic figures like Sarala Das, who is often regarded as the first poet of Odia literature, and the Panchasakha, a group of five saint-poets whose works left an indelible mark on the literary landscape. Their contributions not only enriched the language but also helped to shape the identity and cultural ethos of the Odia-speaking people.
Early origins: The birth of Odia literature
Before Odia was ever written down, it existed as an oral tradition, serving as a medium for storytelling, religious discourse, and cultural expression. The earliest form of written Odia began to appear around the 10th century, with significant development by the 14th century, when the language had fully matured into its own script and literary tradition.
As Odia evolved from its oral roots to a written language, it began to reflect the diverse influences and cultural exchanges occurring in medieval India. The adoption of the Odia script and the emergence of written literature marked a significant shift, allowing for the preservation and dissemination of stories, religious texts, and poetic works.
This period saw the creation of foundational texts and poetic compositions that not only established the language’s literary capabilities but also contributed to its distinct identity. The development of Odia literature during this time set the stage for its rich and varied tradition, which would continue to grow and evolve in the centuries to follow.
The medieval period, particularly from the 15th to the 17th centuries, is often hailed as the golden age of Odia literature.
This book precisely introduces readers to the tradition of Odia literature from its origins and offers a direct understanding of that linguistic tradition through its literary works.
Romantic and ornate poetry: A new era
The 16th and 17th centuries saw the rise of romantic and ornate poetry, with the creation of the Chautisa, a poetic form characterised by 34 stanzas, each beginning with a different letter of the Odia alphabet.
This period also marked the beginning of the Riti Yuga, or the Age of Ornate Poetry, with poets like Upendra Bhanja leading the way. Known as the ‘Kabi Samrata’ (emperor of poets), Bhanja’s work was characterised by rich imagery and intricate metaphors, elevating Odia poetry to new artistic heights.
Dash’s work is a gift to the world of literature, offering a rare glimpse into the heart of Odisha’s cultural and literary heritage.
The renaissance of modern Odia literature
The arrival of British rule in Odisha in the early 19th century ushered in a transformative era for Odia literature. The introduction of the printing press and English education catalyzed the development of modern Odia literary forms, including novels, essays, and contemporary poetry. This period, often seen as the Renaissance of Odia literature.
Fakir Mohan Senapati, born in 1843, is celebrated as the father of modern Odia literature. His groundbreaking work, Rebati (1898), is recognized as the first Odia short story, while his novel Chamana Atha Guntha (Six Acres and a Half) stands as the first modern Odia novel and a milestone in Indian literature.
The anthology features one of Senapati’s stories, alongside nearly 30 other short stories, over 100 poems spanning 600 years, 23 essays, a one-act play, and a drama excerpt. Senapati’s contributions, along with those of his contemporaries, shifted the focus from religious and romantic themes to social issues and the lives of ordinary people, reflecting a broader and more diverse literary landscape.
A comprehensive collection with depth and breadth
Dash’s anthology goes beyond just compiling well-known works. It includes literature from various dialects spoken across Odisha, such as Santhali, Sambalpuri-Kosli, Mundari, Khadia, and Sadri dialects that are often overlooked in mainstream compilations. This inclusivity ensures that the anthology reflects the full linguistic and cultural diversity of the region.
The anthology also acknowledges the contributions of poets like Jayanta Mahapatra and Niranjan Mohanty, who, although they wrote in English, were deeply rooted in Odia culture. The inclusion of excerpts from the Gita Govinda by the 12th-century poet Jayadeva, translated into English by Mani Rao, adds historical depth, showcasing the continuous thread of literary excellence that runs through Odia history.
Literary works from all regions where Odia is spoken have been included, ensuring a diverse and representative collection. This approach allows readers to experience the full spectrum of Odia literature, from the classical to the contemporary.
The Big Book of Odia Literature is more than a mere anthology; it is a crucial repository for preserving Odisha’s rich linguistic and cultural heritage. As younger generations increasingly turn away from their native languages, this English-translated collection provides an invaluable opportunity to reconnect with their roots.
The legacy of Odia literature
Any languages continue to thrive, with a dynamic literary community that includes poets, novelists, and scholars who carry forward their legacy of their predecessors.
Such anthologies offer significant benefits. As it serves as a bridge, introducing a linguistic tradition to other linguistic communities. Published in English by a prestigious house, this collection also reaches an international audience, making it accessible to readers worldwide.
This approach not only fulfills literary objectives but also fosters a deeper appreciation for one’s native language among contemporary readers.
A must-read for literary enthusiasts
The Big Book of Odia Literature is a groundbreaking work that offers a window into the linguistic and cultural history of Odisha. While it’s impossible to include every significant work in a single volume, this anthology makes a commendable effort.
It invites readers to reflect on the vast literary wealth of Odia literature and perhaps even inspires thoughts about when other Indian languages like Maithili and Assamese might receive similar recognition.For anyone interested in the literary traditions of India, this anthology is must-read.
In an age where cultural legacy is at risk, such book is both relevant and crucial.
Ashutosh Kumar Thakur is a Bangalore based management professional, literary critic and curator.
