Odisha CM bats for classical status to Odissi music

Bhubaneswar: Efforts for granting of classical status to Odissi music gained momentum as Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has written a letter to Union Culture Minister Prahlad Singh Patel in this regard.

“I would like to draw your attention to the ongoing efforts put by the art and music lovers of Odisha to confer classical status to Odissi Music (Vocal and Instrumental). It is a matter of concern that Odissi music, the tradition of which dates back almost to second century B.C.E. is yet to be recognized as a classical music by the Government of India,” Patnaik said in the letter.

The Heritage Cabinet in its meeting held on 02.9.2020 decided to draw the attention of Union Government towards according classical status to the Odissi Music, the CM said.

Patnaik urged Patel to consider the conferring of classical status to Odissi Music to fulfil the long cherished dream of the music lovers of Odisha.

A brief report on classical aspects of Odissi Music prepared by the Department of Odia Language, Literature & Culture has been enclosed with the letter.

Also read: Demand For Classical Status To Odissi Music Raised In Rajya Sabha.