Meet Sagar Ranjan Tripathy: The Ayurvedic Physician Championing the Odia Language
A Passionate Advocate for Odia Culture
Berhampur: While many individuals are defined by their careers, a select few embody their professions with passion. Sagar Ranjan Tripathy stands out in Ganjam district as a prime example of this blend of vocation and zeal. An Ayurvedic doctor by training, Tripathy is also at the forefront of a movement dedicated to preserving the Odia language. Originating from Lunighati Brahman Sasan in Polasara tehsil, he comes from a family rich in cultural heritage, with his father, Krushna Chandra Tripathy, being a well-known poet and author.
Tripathy completed his early education in Dharakote and graduated from Gopabandhu High School in Polasara before attending Kaviraj Ananta Tripathy Sharma Ayurveda College & Hospital (KATS) for his higher studies. His literary talents began to emerge early on, and with a strong sense of pride in his heritage, he opted to become an independent Ayurvedic practitioner instead of pursuing a government position. Today, he is not only a respected Ayurvedic physician but also a prominent columnist and speaker throughout Odisha, earning numerous accolades for his contributions to the Odia language and culture.
His awareness of the 'declining status of the Odia language' emerged during various cultural events, prompting him to embark on a lifelong mission to advocate for his mother tongue. In 2016, he initiated a remarkable movement on Pana Sankranti, also known as Maha Vishuba Sankranti, which involved an 878-day silent black flag procession across Odisha to promote the Odia language. This initiative, which commenced in Berhampur in 2017, was led by Tripathy himself. Reflecting on his achievements, he noted that the previous government responded positively by enacting the Odia Language Act.
Additionally, an Odia university has been established in Satyabadi, Puri. Although there is growing public awareness regarding language, culture, and traditions through various forums, Tripathy believes there is still much work to be done. He is committed to continuing the movement until all objectives are met. Over the past eight years, his linguistic advocacy has evolved into a personal mission, significantly impacting the community. Whether honoring local heroes or advocating for Utkal Ashram's recognition as a heritage site, his dedication remains steadfast. Tripathy emphasizes the importance of loving one's mother tongue while also appreciating all languages, hoping to inspire the younger generation.
In addition to his linguistic endeavors, Tripathy is a well-known participant at the Kalinga Herbal Fair. His contributions to Ayurvedic medicine have been acknowledged by the State Medicinal Plant Board and the Forest and Environment department, which awarded him the esteemed Dhanwantari Award for promoting herbal medicine. Last year, he received the 'Odia Asmita Samman' from the Berhampur Municipal Corporation. Currently, he operates an Ayurvedic clinic named Nibarani in Lochapada, where he has been providing dedicated care for 25 years. His dual role as a physician and a passionate advocate for the Odia language positions Tripathy as a source of inspiration for language enthusiasts across Odisha.