Bhubaneswar, July 27: The Orissa Sahitya Akademi celebrated its foundation day for the first time, in its 54 years of existence, on Monday. Littérateurs from all over the state congregated on the occasion.

A number of discussions and lectures were held at the event, conducted at Bhanja Kala Mandap at Kalpana Square in the city. Celebrated authors Ramakant Rath and Mohapatra Nilamani Sahoo gave suggestions to the members of the Oriya literary fraternity.

“To increase the popularity of Oriya literature, more publishers should come forward, since the unavailability of Oriya books at most of the centres is leading to a decline in readership,” said Rath.

President of the Akademi Ramachandra Behera said that henceforth the institution’s foundation day would be observed annually.

Culture minister Prafulla Samal, who was present on the occasion, sanctioned Rs 30 lakh for publication and distribution of Oriya books awaiting publication for a long time.

Eminent Odissi musician Ramahari Das performed at the event, where personalities like Srinivas Udagata were present.