The Centre for Folklore Studies, in association with the Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC), KISS Deemed to be University, and the Department of Odia, School of Comparative Tribal Languages and Literatures (SCTLL), KISS Deemed to be University, Bhubaneswar, celebrated World Folklore Day on 22 August 2026 at 4:00 PM at the Auditorium, KISS Campus 4.
The programme commenced with the inauguration of the Wall Magazine, followed by the lighting of lamp by the dignitaries and a Welcome Song. Dr. Rasmita Tripathy, Centre Head, Centre for Folklore Studies and HoD, Department of Odia, SCTLL, introduced the Centre and highlighted its role in promoting folklore research, documentation, preservation, and academic engagement. Dr. Chittaranjan Bhoi, Dean, SCTLL, introduced the distinguished guests and delivered the Welcome Address, emphasising the significance of folklore in understanding cultural identity and collective heritage. This was followed by addresses by Dr. Prashanta Kumar Routray, Registrar, and Dr. Snigdharani Panda, Joint Registrar, KISS Deemed to be University.
The Chief Speaker, Dr. Prafulla Kumar Mohanty, Central Sahitya Akademi Awardee and Former Principal, Ravenshaw Autonomous College, Cuttack, delivered an insightful address on the diverse dimensions and enduring relevance of folklore. He elaborated on moral wisdom, Bishnu Sharma’s Panchatantra, folk songs, folk myths, and folk literature, explaining how these traditions preserve ethical values, social experiences, collective memory, indigenous knowledge, and cultural identity across generations. He further emphasised that folklore should not merely be viewed as remnants of the past, but as a living cultural resource with continuing relevance in contemporary society.
The academic and cultural segments included a short play by the students of the Odia Department, followed by a scholarly presentation by the Ph.D. Scholars of SCTLL. A vibrant Folk Dance Performance by the students of Performing Arts and the Department of Odia further enriched the celebration. The programme concluded with the Vote of Thanks by Mrs. Debahuti Pattnaik, Faculty, Department of Odia, SCTLL, expressing gratitude to all dignitaries, faculty members, scholars, students, and participants who contributed to the successful organisation of the event.
The celebration provided a meaningful platform for connecting folklore, scholarship, literature, performance, and cultural heritage, reaffirming the importance of preserving and promoting India’s rich and diverse folk traditions.
