Cuttack, August 27, 2026: Eminent Odia litterateur Dr. Ramachandra Behera has been selected for the prestigious Sarala Samman–2026 in recognition of his outstanding contribution to Odia literature.
The Sarala Sahitya Sansad will confer the honour on Dr. Behera at a special ceremony to be held on Sunday, September 6, 2026, at 6:00 PM at Sarala Bhawan, Saraswata Peetha, Biju Patnaik Chhak, Cuttack.
According to a press release issued by Sarala Sahitya Sansad founder and president Dr. (Eng.) Prabhakar Swain and secretary Dr. Niranjan Tripathy, the award carries a cash prize of ₹1.25 lakh, along with a citation and a traditional uttariya.
Dr. Ramachandra Behera is a distinguished short-story writer, novelist, playwright, essayist and educationist. His notable literary works include Chihna Achihna, Abhinaya Paridhi, Dhusara Suryasta, Kuhudi O Trushna, Pada Talara Mati, Sabuj Chhadmabesha, Nikhōja Aparadhi, Nua Colony, Ghara, Achihna Pruthibi and Gopapur, among others.
A recipient of the Kendra Sahitya Akademi Award and several other prestigious literary honours, Dr. Behera has made a significant contribution to the development and enrichment of Odia literature through his diverse body of work.
Dr. Behera is currently residing in Kendrapara.
The Sarala Samman is regarded as one of the notable literary honours in Odisha, recognising writers who have made significant and sustained contributions to Odia literature.
