Birthplaces of 25 ‘Baraputras’ to get heritage makeover in Phase I

Bhubaneswar: The state govt has identified the birthplaces of 25 eminent sons of Odisha for their development under Baraputra Aitihya Gram Yojana in the first phase, according to the officials of Odia language, literature and culture department, which is implementing the scheme.Under the new scheme, residential houses of Odia icons, including freedom fighters and social reformers, who contributed towards shaping Odisha’s social, cultural and literary ethos, will be identified, developed and conserved as heritage museums, with an aim to document and institutionalise their contributions and sacrifices.The museums will be equipped with infrastructure like interpretation centres, libraries, open-air theatres, children’s parks and conference halls, besides stalls selling local cuisine, handloom items and handicrafts, which will provide employment to the local residents.

Statues of the ‘Baraputras’ (sons of the soil) will also be installed at the houses.The state govt will spend up to Rs 15 crore per birthplace. Accordingly, the total estimated expenditure for Phase I has been estimated at Rs 345 crore.Officials say based on the outcome of the Phase I, the govt may select places related to other eminent personalities in subsequent phases. The scheme’s provisions will be incorporated into the state budget annually to ensure continuity and its sustained implementation.

“This initiative aims to preserve the legacy of Odisha’s great sons and daughters, and promote cultural tourism, while simultaneously providing opportunities for local livelihoods through heritage-based economic activities,” culture minister Suryabanshi Suraj has said.Cultural performances and interactive sessions, based on the lives and contributions of the ‘Baraputras’, will also be held at these destinations at regular intervals to disseminate and promote their ideas, thoughts and core values.