IIM Sambalpur, ICSSR host national seminar on ‘Unknown aspects of freedom struggle’

NEW DELHI: Indian Institute of Management Sambalpur in collaboration with the Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR), New Delhi hosted a national seminar on the topic - "Unknown aspects of the Freedom Struggle; Cultural Heritage and Sustainable Management in Western parts of Odisha". The national seminar was conducted at Rangavati Centre for Excellence in Culture and Sustainable Management at IIM Sambalpur campus.

“The objective of the seminar was to highlight the unknown aspects of the freedom struggle as well as the vibrant cultural heritage and folk traditions linked to sustainable management in western parts of Odisha,” the official statement read.

Speaking at the inaugural function, Mahadeo Jaiswal, IIM Sambalpur director said: “supported by the ICSSR, the Rangavati centre aims to explore how art and culture can drive sustainable business practices globally. Unlike many business schools that focus solely on corporate brands, we strive to elevate local heritage to a global stage. Our approach to management education integrates societal values with business acumen. We believe in creating an inclusive, respectful, and hierarchy-free environment where every individual feels valued.”

“This culture is not just aspirational but is practised every day at IIM Sambalpur. Today, at the Rangavati Centre, we are not only celebrating the rich cultural heritage of Sambalpur but also embarking on a journey to create a sustainable, innovative, and inclusive business model."

Contribution of Odisha in freedom struggle

The chief guest, Bidhu Bhusan Mishra, vice-chancellor of Sambalpur University said: "One crucial aspect we must address is the often-overlooked contribution of Odisha to India's freedom struggle. Modern history books rarely highlight the significant role of our region in the freedom movement.”

“It is time to rewrite this narrative, ensuring Odisha's contributions are duly recognized. Freedom fighters like Jai Rajguru, who resisted British rule in the early 19th century, and the Khurda rebellion are seminal events that require documentation and celebration. We must remember and honour heroes like Veer Surendra Sai, whose contributions to our freedom struggle are monumental yet underrepresented in mainstream history. This seminar provides a platform to bring these untold stories to light, ensuring they become an integral part of India's historical narrative," Mishra further said.

Guest of honour Chandi Prasad Nanda; director of the Odisha Research Centre in Bhubaneswar were also present during the inaugural session.

Recently, IIM Sambalpur was awarded Rs 70 lakh for a research programme entitled “A Critical Study of Folk Tradition, Cultural Heritage, Cultural History and Unknown Aspects of Armed and Non-Violent Freedom Struggle in Western Parts of Odisha by ICSSR.”