Discover the Hidden Gem of Bhadrak: A Library Transforming Lives

A Unique Library Experience in Bhadrak

Bhubaneswar/Bhadrak: In a time when libraries face challenges in attracting readers due to digital distractions, a remarkable establishment in Bhadrak district stands out. Loknath Pathagara ‘o’ Sangrahalaya, founded by the dedicated Bikash Kumar Satapathy, has transformed from a humble village library into a remarkable repository boasting over 35,000 books and invaluable historical artifacts.

Satapathy, who holds a postgraduate degree in Odia literature, established this library in 1990 as a tribute to his great-grandfather. Motivated by the influential library activist Dasharathi Pattnaik, known as Dasia Aja, he began with a modest collection of just 15 periodicals.

Now, it ranks among the best-maintained privately operated libraries and museums in Odisha, featuring a vast array of over 35,000 books and magazines, alongside thousands of rare manuscripts and historical items. The museum's collection reflects the rich cultural heritage of Odisha over the centuries.

The library's impressive collection features over 1,200 palm-leaf manuscripts, more than 1,100 rare coins from India and abroad, discontinued postal stamps, vintage radios, traditional lanterns, marine fossils, tribal weapons, antique weighing scales, and many other relics that tell the story of the region's cultural journey. For Satapathy, preserving history is just one part of his mission.

Equally vital is fostering a love for reading among the youth. He has written children's books like ‘Shukh ila Gachhara Dashti Patra O Dashti Phula’ and ‘Kau Koili’, and he initiated the children’s magazine ‘Baichadei’ in 1996 to promote reading among young audiences. Located in Ward No. 12 of Basudevpur Municipality, the library and museum are accessible free of charge to students, researchers, and visitors.

Satapathy also spearheads the “Mobile Chhada, Bahi Padha” (Leave the Mobile, Read a Book) initiative, where he travels to schools and villages, distributing free books and showcasing rare artifacts to encourage children to rediscover the joy of reading.

What is particularly commendable about this initiative is that it has flourished without any government funding. “All my earnings from performing puja-paath go towards purchasing books and maintaining the library,” Satapathy explains.

“Books should not just sit idle in cupboards; they are meant to be read. My aspiration is to cultivate readers and inspire children to develop a passion for books.” More than just a library or museum, Loknath Pathagara ‘o’ Sangrahalaya serves as a vibrant archive of Odisha’s collective memory.