The first Novel on the life of Kasturba ‘Nepathya Nayika’ unveiled

Bhubaneswar, 16.04.2019 : “Literature, since time immemorial, has been acting as a major driver in social reforms and inculcating values in the social set ups. Especially, literatures based on the lives and principles of great personalities and leaders can influence, enrich and boost this process. In this context, the first-ever novel on the life of legendary Kasturaba Gandhi in Odia language is commendable. This would certainly throw insights on the makings of a great leader like Mahatma Gandhi and the role played by Kasturaba Gandhi,” said Dr. Tapan kumar Chand, CMD, NALCO, on the occasion of the release of the novel ‘Nepathya Nayika’, written by the well-known Odia author Pushpanjali Kar. The book, published under the banner of Pakshighara Prakashani, was released on 11th April 2019, in the premised of Nalco Nagar, Bhubaneswar. “The novel, which is published to mark the 150th Birth Anniversary Celebration of Mahatma Gandhi, would certainly have an impact on women empowerment and role of women in Nation building,” added Dr. Chand.

The programme was inaugurated by renowned Odia writer Dr. Manorama Mohapatra. Speaking on the occasion, she congratulated the author of the novel for penning down the life of the lady behind Mahatma Gandhi, which is a great tribute to both Mahatma Gandhi and Kasturaba Gandhi on the 150th Birth Anniversary of the former. Among others, Shri Dash Benhur, Dr. Gourahari Das and Smt. Preeti Roy, President, Nalco Mahila Samiti also spoke on the occasion.

At the outset, singer Sharanya Mishra performed a bhajan and artiste Bhaswati Basu presented a mono acting on Kasturba Gandhi. Many acclaimed personalities of Odia literature were present on the occasion. The Editor of Pakshighara Prakashani offered the Vote of Thanks.