The Department of Santali, School of Comparative Tribal Languages and Literatures (SCTLL) and the Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC), KISS-DU jointly organized the Santali Bhasha Diwas on 22nd December 2024. On the occasion, the statues of Pandit Raghunath Murmu, Saheed Laxman Naik and Bhagwan Birsa Munda which has been instituted on the University premises were garlanded by the Chief Guest in the presence of other dignitaries. In addition, before the commencement of the Technical Session, the revered speakers unveiled the Wall Magazine.
Delivering the Welcome Address at the Technical Session, Dr. Chittaranjan Bhoi, Dean, School of Comparative Tribal Languages and Literatures, KISS-DU welcomed the distinguished Chief Guest, Mr. Ramachandra Murmu, retired RBI employee, social worker and litterateur. Dr. Bhoi expressed his admiration for Santal customs and traditions. He also spoke about Santali literature and culture, appreciating its richness. Addressing the gathering, Mr. Ramachandra Murmu expressed his appreciation for KISS-DU and its Founder, Dr. Achyuta Samanta. He paid tribute to Pandit Raghunath Murmu, the inventor of Ol Chiki script and Santali language. He acknowledged Santali as one of the ancient languages and emphasized its cultural and historical significance. Dr. Priyoneel Basu, Director Research suggested the research scholars to prepare a multilingual glossary in order to document languages. Dr. Naran Tudu, Head of Santali Department highlighted the significance of the day. He stressed on the importance of Santali language and urged everyone to promote the language on an international platform, in addition to observing Santali Bhasha Diwas.
While delivering the Concluding Remarks, Mr. Kadey Soren, Dy. Director Academics suggested initiating of Ol Chiki Mission 2025 by teaching the script to the family members and then extending it up to others. Dr. Dhanu Murmu proposed formal Vote of Thanks to the esteemed speaker, participants and the organizing team.
