KISS-DU observed the death anniversary of Shaheed Laxman Nayak on 29th March 2023. This event was jointly organized by the Laxman Nayak Research Chair and the School of Comparative Tribal Langauges and Literatures (SCTLL). The programme began with an opening song sung in tribal language by PG students of Odia Programme which included the biography of the legend.

Professor Deepak Kumar Behera, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, KISS-DU addressed the students on the occasion. In his speech, he stated that just as Laxman Nayak selflessly sacrificed himself for his country, students should draw inspiration from him and work for the society. People come and go, but only those who have contributed to their country are  remembered. They become immortal and are counted among great personalities, such as Shaheed Laxman Nayak, and Birsa Munda, etc.

Dr. Kanhu Charan Mahali, Director General, KISS-DU mentioned that establishing statues of legends like Saheed Laxman Nayak and Birsa Munda in KISS-DU premises is a matter of great pride for us and he also thanked hon’ble Founder KISS and KIIT, Dr. Achyuta Samanta for unveiling the statues.

In his speech, Dr. Sunaram Soren, Laxman Naik Research Chair, KISS-DU, said that we should never forget the struggles against the British, and other kinds of oppressions. We can achieve our rights through struggle. We need to collect the stories of their struggles and carry forward action-based research which includes annotated bibliography.

Jayanti Kulasika (PG 2nd year – Odia) delivered a speech on the biography, movements, contributions, and sacrifice of martyr Laxman Nayak and said that we should never forget his contribution. Ranita Pradhan, a Ph.D. scholar in Political Science, began her speech with a lovely poem on martyr Laxman Nayak. She said that we must draw inspiration from martyr Laxman Nayak. Pradeep Kumar Nayak, a 2nd year PG student in the Odia Programme, also shared his views. He said that India has many diversities. There are many cultures, religions, and languages. India is our motherland, and even diversity should unite us. Our art, language, culture, music, and dance should be used for unitign the country.

Dr. Rasmita Tripathy, Dean, SCTLL, gave thanks to all the guests and students who delivered presentations on the auspicious occasion of the Remembrance Day of Martyr Laxman Nayak.

Ms Jaswanti Mirdha, PG 2nd Year Student, Odia Programme, KISS-DU coordinated the programme.