Cuttack: Akshaya Mohanty—an iconic name in the Odia music world. His melodies were deeply rooted in the streets of Cuttack, the language of the tea vendors, the expressions of rickshaw pullers, the conversations at crossroads, and the thoughts of struggling students. Even today, his soulful music resonates from nothingness, echoing timelessly. The name that once began with just an “A” never really ended with his passing. For every resident of Cuttack, “Cuttack, Mahanadi, and Akshaya” evoke a deep emotion.
To honor this legacy and his immense contribution to Odia music, work has begun on installing a life-size statue. The cultural department has taken up the responsibility, and renowned artisan Lakshmidhar Rana of Kathagada Sahi, along with other sculptors, is building the bronze statue. The plan is to unveil it on October 12, on the occasion of Akshaya Mohanty’s birth anniversary.
Akshaya Mohanty introduced numerous musical innovations in Odia music, blending new words and tones during a time when modern instruments were scarce. His artistic depth was enriched by Odia mythology and ancient literature. Interestingly, his play Patent Medicine, which won the best radio drama award on Akashvani, was centered on Kathagada Sahi—a place now hosting the construction of his nearly 10-foot-tall statue.
The statue’s making process began in March, starting with a clay model, followed by a fiber model, and finally, the bronze version. The plaster and polishing work is ongoing, after which it will be cast using bronze mixed with sand and wax. Seven artisans, including Srikant Rana, Ajay Behera, Dhirendra Choudhury, Mahendra Behera, and Rishan Singh, are engaged in the process, working 3 to 4 hours daily.
The statue will be placed on a dedicated pedestal. In it, Akshaya Mohanty will be shown holding a diary with handwritten lyrics in one hand and singing into a microphone. Although the final location is yet to be decided, it is expected to be installed either near the Collector’s office at Akshaya Mohanty Park or at a prominent intersection in the city.
Notably, Akshaya Mohanty was born in Bankimundel village of Cuttack district. He completed his I.Sc. from Stewart Science College, his B.A. from Ravenshaw, and his law degree from Madhusudan Law College. At just 19, he entered government service but left it after seven years to fully dedicate himself to music.
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