Odisha to distribute 1 crore revised Lakshmi Purana, plans ‘Mahalakshmi Corridor’ at Balaram Das’ birthplace

Odisha government announced plans on Thursday to distribute one crore copies of a revised edition of the Lakshmi Purana and develop a dedicated ‘Mahalakshmi Corridor’ at Begunia, associated with the legacy of medieval poet Balaram Das. The announcements were made by Deputy CM Pravati Parida during the inauguration of a national seminar titled ‘Shakti Bandanara Mahagatha – Balaram Dasanka Lakshmi Purana’ in Bhubaneswar. Deputy CM Parida said the revised version of the Lakshmi Purana will be rendered by renowned Odia singers Namita Agrawal and Gita Das to help popularise the text among a wider audience. She also announced that the State government intends to distribute one crore copies of the revised publication as part of its efforts to preserve and promote Odisha’s literary and cultural heritage. The proposed Mahalakshmi Corridor at Begunia, where Balaram Das’ memorial is located, will feature a gallery dedicated to the poet, a research gallery on Goddess Lakshmi, and cultural spaces where nearly 500 women can collectively recite the Lakshmi Purana. According to the Deputy CM, the project is expected to boost cultural tourism while creating employment opportunities for local residents. Addressing the gathering, Parida described the Lakshmi Purana as more than a religious text, calling it a symbol of social reform that promotes equality, dignity, justice, and women’s empowerment. Law, Works, and Excise Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan said the literary work carries a timeless message of respecting women and social inclusion. The seminar brought together scholars, researchers, writers, and artists, who discussed the literary, cultural, and social significance of the Lakshmi Purana. A conceptual video showcasing the proposed corridor was also presented during the event.