Perspectives on Orissa

In keeping with the prime objective of the Centre for Studies in Civilizations, the present volume focuses on Orissa's specific contributions to the multi-cultural, pluralistic spectrum of Indian civilization. In this volume the best brains of Orissa have exposed and analysed the cultural and intellectual history of this ancient state that is rich with exquisite an and architecture of temples and monuments, profound philosophical and religious ideologies, copious literary resources and cultural ambience as well as some unique scientific outlook and technological innovations; music and performing arts like yatra and the dances characteristic of this region form equally significant and typical aspects of this history. In the planning of this volume, meticulous care has been taken to do justice to all these aspects of Orissa's hoary tradition. Accordingly the authors have made extensive coverage of all these diverse areas of the Oriya culture and civilization and have brought to light their linkage to, and influence on, the national mainstream. Also to this purpose they have presented their studies on almost all the prominent thinkers and writers of Orissa from the ancient through the medieval up to the modern period. The result has been richly rewarding and illuminating. Although the essays have been meticulously edited, the authors' views and judgments on their respective areas of study have been given full freedom in order that they may come up with their best. The book will serve as a useful source material for learning and research on Orissa and its cultural-intellectual tradition.