In a significant initiative to promote Odisha’s rich cultural and literary heritage, the state government has announced the development of a ‘Lakshmi Purana Corridor’ at the samadhi (memorial) of the 15th-century Odia saint-poet Balaram Das in Begunia village of Puri district’s Gop block. The announcement was made by Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida during the inauguration of a national seminar titled “Shakti Bandanara Mahagatha – Balaram Das’s Lakshmi Purana”, organised by the Tourism Department at the Mission Shakti Bhawan auditorium in Bhubaneswar.

Addressing the gathering, Parida, who also holds the Women and Child Development, Mission Shakti and Tourism portfolios, said the core message of the Mahalakshmi Purana extends far beyond religion and represents a powerful symbol of social reform. She noted that the literary work promotes values such as justice, equality, dignity, hard work and self-respect, emphasizing that true prosperity is measured not by wealth alone but by an inclusive and equitable society.

She said the proposed Lakshmi Purana Corridor has been conceptualised to showcase Odisha’s spiritual traditions, culture and heritage to visitors from across the country and the world. A special concept video presenting the proposed design of the corridor at Begunia village was also screened during the programme.

The seminar brought together eminent scholars, researchers and cultural experts who discussed the literary, cultural and social relevance of the Lakshmi Purana, particularly its enduring message of women’s empowerment and social equality. The speakers highlighted how the centuries-old text continues to inspire discussions on social justice and gender equality even in contemporary times.

Law, Works and Excise Minister Prithviraj Harichandan, who attended the event as the guest of honour, said the Lakshmi Purana is not merely a devotional text dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi but also a timeless message advocating respect and dignity for women. He described the Tourism Department’s initiative to promote the literary masterpiece globally as a commendable effort.

The seminar featured presentations by several distinguished personalities, including Dr. Bidyutlata Mohanty of the Institute of Social Sciences, New Delhi, noted author and columnist Asit Mohanty, retired professor Gouranga Charan Das, renowned singers Geeta Das and Namita Agrawal, along with scholars and academicians from various institutions. They deliberated on the historical significance of the Lakshmi Purana and its contribution to Odisha’s cultural identity.

Senior officials, including Odisha Language, Literature and Culture Department Secretary Bijay Ketan Upadhyay, Mission Shakti Director Dr. Monika Priyadarshini, and Tourism Director Dipankar Mahapatra, were also present at the event. The programme concluded with Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida felicitating the scholars and participants for their contributions to preserving and promoting Odisha’s literary and cultural heritage.