Preserving Odisha’s Living Heritage: Mishrasala’s Efforts to Safeguard Folk Culture and Traditions
Mishrasala plays a crucial role in preserving Odisha’s rich folk culture and traditions through physical folklore. Its efforts cover diverse Odia expressions—art, music, dance, rituals, and storytelling. Facing modern challenges like declining youth interest and media influence, Mishrasala actively involves local communities and uses technology to document and promote folklore, ensuring these timeless traditions continue to thrive and attract cultural tourism.
Meet the founder
Dr. Ajaya Kumar Mishra is a highly esteemed scholar in the field of Odia language and literature, possessing over fifty years of experience in folklore, literary criticism, and education. He is a retired Associate Professor from S.V.M. Autonomous College, Jagatsinghpur, and holds both a PhD and a D.Litt. from Utkal University, specialising in Folk Drama, Folk Literature, and Language Studies.
Dr Mishra has made extensive contributions to his discipline, as evidenced by his prolific publication record, which includes over 75 books and more than 100 articles. He has been instrumental in the development of dictionaries, served on various editorial boards, and participated actively in cultural committees. Furthermore, he has supervised numerous Ph.D. and M.Phil. candidates, thereby enhancing both academic scholarship and public awareness of Odia culture and folklore.
As a respected figure in Odisha’s arts and literature scene, he is proficient in Odia, English, Hindi, and Sanskrit. He continues to engage as a speaker, consultant, and educator. Dr Mishra’s research interests encompass folk narrative traditions, dramaturgy in folk performance, and language studies, with a strong emphasis on preserving and promoting regional heritage.
Dr. Ajaya Kumar Mishra
Our Products: Crafted with Culture
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Binchana
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