Bhubaneswar: The Odia language has a rich collection of traditional sayings and folk stories, known as Dhagadhamali, which are passed down through generations. These sayings are not just amusing but also serve as tools for social reform. For example, when a husband humorously taunts his wife, he might say, “I pulled you out of the river when you were drowning, and now you dare talk back to me just because you’ve had some good food!” Similarly, a boastful person is mocked with the saying, “Beating the drum loudly, but it’s hollow inside.” There are also sayings that reflect household tensions, such as a mother-in-law complaining about a daughter-in-law’s ignorance: “She knows nothing, doesn’t contribute, but cries the loudest when trouble comes.”
These sayings, which once thrived in Odia villages, are gradually fading away. In the past, people used Dhagadhamali to make witty remarks, especially in rural areas where humorous short songs were also popular. These traditional expressions played a significant role in preserving the Odia language. However, today, instead of these native proverbs, English memes have taken over. Rather than using witty Odia expressions, people now communicate through trendy English phrases and images like “LOL” or “Let’s go!” This shift is evident across generations, with even the elderly adopting these modern forms of expression. Linguists express concern that such trends are leading to the erosion of Odia’s linguistic essence.
The Preservation Efforts of Arun Kumar Patra
Despite this decline, individuals like Arun Kumar Patra are striving to preserve this rich heritage. A government employee by profession, his passion lies in collecting Dhagadhamali from different villages. Wherever he is posted, he documents these expressions in a diary. Over 35 years of service in the agriculture department, he has amassed a collection of 10,000 such sayings and even published books on the subject. Currently, he is working on a book that explores agricultural Dhagadhamali.
The Lost Melodies of Chakulia Panda
In earlier times, Chakulia Pandas (traditional wandering singers) played a crucial role in keeping the language and moral teachings alive through their songs.