image credits: shortpedia
On February 27, 2025, the state commemorates the birth anniversary of one of its most celebrated literary figures, Padma Bhushan Manoj Das. Born on February 27, 1934, in the coastal village of Sankhari in Balasore district, Manoj Das left an indelible mark on Indian literature with his profound works in Odia and English. His legacy as a bilingual author, storyteller, and philosopher continues to inspire generations. Notably, in 2020 alone, Odisha saw 11 of its luminaries honored with Padma Awards, including Manoj Das, who received the prestigious Padma Bhushan.
Who is Padma Bhusan Manoj Das ?
Manoj Das was no ordinary writer; his pen wove tales that resonated with readers across linguistic boundaries. With a career spanning decades, he earned accolades such as the Saraswati Samman in 2000, the Padma Shri in 2001, and the Sahitya Akademi Award Fellowship in 2006—the highest literary honor in India.
Das’s writings, often infused with satire, psychological depth, and social commentary, showcased the frailties of human nature and the quirks of everyday life. Esteemed authors like Graham Greene praised his storytelling, likening it to the works of R.K. Narayan while noting an added layer of mystery rooted in Odisha’s ethos.
Early Life and Publications of Literary Icon
Born to Madhusudan Das, a government official under British rule, Manoj Das began his literary journey early. His first book of poetry in Odia, Satavdira Artanada, was published in 1949 while he was still in high school. Over the years, he produced masterpieces like Amruta Phala, Aranyaka, and Lakshmira Abhisara, cementing his status as a prolific writer.
Since 1963, he resided at the Sri Aurobindo Ashram in Puducherry, where he taught English literature and the philosophy of Sri Aurobindo, further enriching his intellectual legacy. Manoj Das’s posthumous Padma Bhushan was presented by President Ram Nath Kovind on November 8, 2021 at Rashtrapati Bhavan. His passing on April 27, 2021, at the age of 87, marked the end of an era, but his works remain timeless treasures of Odisha’s literary heritage.
Where is Manoj Das Memorial Located in Odisha ?
The Manoj Das Birthplace Memorial was established at his ancestral home in Sankhari, Bhogarai, Balasore district. This memorial serves as a tribute to his life and contributions. The venue was inaugurated in 2024.
The memorial is more than just a physical space; it’s a journey into the mind of a literary genius. It houses artifacts, manuscripts, and exhibits that chronicle his life starting from his humble beginnings in Sankhari to his illustrious career in Puducherry. It has transformed his birthplace into a cultural landmark by preserving his legacy for future generations.
Venue: Manoj Das Birthplace Memorial, Sankhari, Bhogarai, Balasore, Odisha
Timings: The memorial is accessible daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
How to Visit: Located in Balasore district, the memorial is easily reachable by road. From Bhubaneswar, it’s approximately a 5-hour drive (around 270 km) via NH16. Regular bus services and trains connect Balasore to major cities in Odisha, with the nearest railway station being Balasore Junction.
