Odisha Honors Santali Heritage with ₹50 Crore Initiative
(OT Webdesk): In a landmark announcement, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has declared a year-long celebration to mark the centenary of the Ol Chiki script, which is widely used for writing the Santali language. The declaration was made during an event in Mayurbhanj district, commemorating the 120th birth anniversary of the script’s creator, Guru Gomke Pandit Raghunath Murmu.
Speaking at the event, CM Majhi emphasized that the celebration goes beyond paying tribute to Murmu—it represents a crucial recognition of the Santali community’s linguistic and cultural identity. He further reiterated the Odisha government’s commitment to Santali language development, spanning primary education, textbook preparation, teacher training, and linguistic research.
Major Initiatives Announced:
- Ol Chiki Library in Baripada – This new facility will house books written by Pandit Murmu, making them accessible to the public.
- International Seminar – Scholars and linguists will convene to discuss strategies to propagate the Santali language.
- Open Theatre-Museum & Heritage Building – A new cultural site will be developed at Murmu’s workplace to honor his contributions.
- Memorial Pilgrimage Site – Murmu’s ancestral residence in Dandbose will be transformed into a historical landmark.
- Special ₹50 Crore Package – Dedicated funds will ensure the successful execution of these projects.
CM Majhi described Ol Chiki as a beacon of education, identity, and pride for the Santali community. “Pandit Murmu was not just an individual; he was a movement, a consciousness, and a visionary of art and culture,” he remarked, urging future generations to uphold Murmu’s legacy through mutual respect and linguistic solidarity.
With this initiative, Odisha positions itself as a leader in preserving indigenous languages and cultures, reaffirming its commitment to inclusivity and heritage conservation.
