Dynamic and dazzling- Devi Awards Bhubaneswar 2024

BHUBANESWAR: From a grassroots journalist to a Chhau revivalist, from a supramolecular chemistry scientist to a young and bright filmmaker 14 women from different walks of life made the Devi Awards Bhubaneswar 2024 ceremony, held on September 21, a celestial affair. Resident Editor, TNIE Odisha, Siba Mohanty in his welcome address said the Devi Awards celebrate women trailblazers who embody empowerment and leadership. Those who were awarded include the craftswoman instrumental in reviving the lacquer craft Pravati Patro; the first Indian to receive the prestigious International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry Award Jyotirmayee Mohanty; moderniser of Santali textile tradition Lipsa Hembram; the youngster who prioritised menstrual hygiene among tribal Koraput girls Jayanti Buruda. Educator par excellence Poly Patnaik; cultural enabler who breathed new life into Chhau Subhasree Mukherjee; passionate Odissi dancer Madhulita Mohapatra; advocate for Odia handloom and handicrafts Amrita Sabat; the Rasagola Lady who enabled the GI tag for several products unique to Odisha Anita Sabat; the filmmaker revitalising Odia movie industry with original content Peenakee Singh Rajput; spirited crusader for gender justice Manasi Pradhan; the doyen of Odia classical music Shyamamani Devi; farmer-activist Sabarmatee and palliative care specialist Dr Mami Parija, also received the award.