Celebrating Literature, Culture, and Social Service with the Unveiling of Mahaka 9th Edition

Date: 16th June 2026 (Last Raja Utsav)

Organized by: Banamalli Sahitya O Seva Sangathan

Banamalli Mahotsav is the annual flagship celebration of Banamalli Sahitya O Seva Sangathan, observed every year on the last day of Raja Utsav. The festival reflects the organization's unwavering commitment to promoting literature, culture, education, and social service. Continuing this cherished tradition, Banamalli Mahotsav 2026 was celebrated with great enthusiasm on 16th June 2026, bringing together distinguished personalities, literary enthusiasts, artists, social workers, and members of the community.

A major highlight of this year's Mahotsav was the grand inauguration of the 9th edition of the organization's annual literary magazine, Mahaka. Over the years, Mahaka has become a respected platform for promoting literature, creativity, and the voices of emerging and established writers. The unveiling of its ninth edition marked another significant milestone in the literary journey of Banamalli Sahitya O Seva Sangathan.

The programme was graced by Dr. Pravash Chandra Acharya, President of the Body and Organ Donor Organisation, as the Chief Guest. His inspiring address emphasized the importance of humanitarian values, voluntary service, and the role of social organizations in creating a compassionate society.

The Chief Speaker, Dr. Tuhinanshu Rath, former Principal, delivered an enlightening speech on the importance of literature, education, and cultural heritage in shaping responsible citizens. His insightful words encouraged the younger generation to preserve and promote the rich literary and cultural traditions of Odisha.

The celebration was further enriched by the gracious presence of distinguished guests, including Sri Prafulla Kumar Das, Sri Ajaya Kumar Dash, Advisor Sri Padmanav Satapathy, former Headmaster Sri Kanhu Charan Sahoo, Poet Sri Baidhar Majhi, Educationist Sri Manoranjan Satapathy, Sri Pramod Satapathy, Sri Lokanath Puri, Sri Ananda Chandra Dalai, Sri Pradeep Satapathy, Sri Ramachandra Mohanty, and Sri Brundavan Satapathy. Their valuable presence and encouraging words added dignity and inspiration to the occasion.

The meeting was presided over by Sri Nirmalya Kumar Pradhan, Vice President of Banamalli Sahitya O Seva Sangathan. The proceedings were gracefully anchored by Sri Jayadev Satapathy, Sri Saroj Kumar Behera, and Ms. Rashmita Behera, whose excellent coordination ensured the smooth conduct of the programme.

A special felicitation ceremony was organized to honour individuals for their outstanding contributions in various fields and their dedicated service to society. Smt. Damayanti Pradhan, Smt. Babita Swain, Smt. Anusuya Mallick, Smt. Lopamudra Behera, Smt. Pankajini Mallick, Sri Soumyaranjan Khatua, Smt. Rachita Das, Sri Basant Kumar Mallick, and Sri Subrat Sahoo were felicitated with tokens of appreciation in recognition of their remarkable work and commitment.

The cultural segment of the programme captivated the audience with a series of colourful performances presented by talented local artists. A special attraction of the evening was the spectacular folk dance and traditional tribal (Adivasi) dance performance by Maa Saraswati Yuva Anusthan, Kalahandi, which beautifully showcased the vibrant cultural heritage and artistic richness of Odisha. The performances received enthusiastic applause from the audience and added a festive spirit to the celebration.

The success of Banamalli Mahotsav 2026 was made possible through the dedicated efforts of the office bearers, members, and volunteers of the organization. Secretary Sri Manas Ranjan Pradhan, along with Sri Lalmohan Satapathy, Sri Antaryami Behera, Sri Tirthabasi Dalai, Smt. Rutupurna Mohanty, Smt. Mamali Barik, Sri Atul Kumar Sahoo, Sri Subrat Sahoo, Sri Pramod Dalai, Smt. Madhusmita Khatua, Sri Pravat Kumar Sahoo, and Sri Lingaraj Satapathy, worked tirelessly to ensure the successful planning and execution of every aspect of the programme. Their dedication and teamwork played a vital role in making the event a memorable success.

The programme concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to the distinguished guests, contributors, performers, volunteers, sponsors, media representatives, and every participant who made the celebration meaningful and memorable.

Banamalli Mahotsav 2026 once again reaffirmed the organization's mission of nurturing literature, preserving culture, encouraging social service, and strengthening community bonds. As Mahaka enters its 9th edition, Banamalli Sahitya O Seva Sangathan looks forward to continuing its journey of inspiring creativity, promoting social awareness, and serving society with renewed dedication.

"Where literature inspires minds, culture unites hearts, and service transforms society."

Banamalli Sahitya O Seva Sangathan extends its sincere gratitude to all guests, members, artists, volunteers, supporters, and well-wishers for making Banamalli Mahotsav 2026 a grand success. Together, let us continue to celebrate our heritage, inspire future generations, and work towards a more enlightened and compassionate society.