Report by Aswini Kumar Darjee
Bargarh (Odisha): MANTHAN 2026, an intellectually stimulating congregation aimed at nurturing progressive and responsible thinking, was successfully held at the Jadumani Padhan Auditorium in Bargarh. Conceived as a platform for meaningful dialogue rather than conventional debate, the event brought together thinkers and practitioners from diverse fields including health, education, agriculture, policy, literature, culture and social discourse, creating a rare space for collective reflection and exchange of ideas.
The central philosophy of MANTHAN 2026 revolved around the belief that in a rapidly evolving society, dialogue holds greater power than confrontation and thoughtful reflection has deeper impact than instant reaction. Staying true to this vision, the event encouraged open-minded conversations, critical questioning and collaborative exploration of solutions to contemporary challenges. The atmosphere throughout the programme reflected intellectual curiosity, mutual respect and a shared commitment to societal betterment.
The inaugural session was graced by eminent personalities from various domains whose presence lent credibility and depth to the discussions. The speakers underlined the importance of interdisciplinary thinking, ethical leadership, youth engagement and socially responsible innovation as essential pillars for shaping a balanced and inclusive future for the nation.
In total, six thoughtfully curated sessions formed the backbone of MANTHAN 2026. These sessions explored Indian philosophy from the Vedas to modern thought, the continuum of innovation linking past wisdom with present practices and future promise, education beyond classrooms with an emphasis on learning without walls, agriculture beyond tradition focusing on the future of farming, the doctor- patient relationship highlighting trust beyond treatment, and the evolving role of media in the age of social platforms through the theme of headlines versus hashtags and who truly shapes the truth.
Renowned speakers including Dr Umesh Mahapatra, Dr Shakti Tripathy, Dr Pradip Hota, Dr Benudhar Pandey, Dr. Arjun Meher, Ashish Panigrahi and Manoranjan Joshi shared their insights on the assigned themes, blending academic depth with practical experience. Their deliberations resonated strongly with the audience, offering perspectives that connected ancient knowledge systems with modern realities and future aspirations.
The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from academicians, doctors, professionals, students, social thinkers and community leaders. The interactive nature of the sessions encouraged active audience engagement, transforming the gathering into an intellectually enriching and socially relevant experience rather than a one-sided discourse.
The Programme was formally inaugurated with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp by Former MLA Debesh Acharya,IMA President Dr. R.N.Tripathy, Secretary Dr. Subal Kar and CDMO In-charge Dr. Subash Ch. Agrawal.
Organisers Dr Shakti Kumar Tripathy and Dr Ipsita Debata emphasised that MANTHAN is not intended to be a one-day programme but a continuing movement of ideas. They expressed their commitment to nurturing a culture where individuals are inspired to think responsibly, act ethically and contribute meaningfully to society. The overwhelming response from participants reaffirmed the growing need for such reflective platforms in contemporary times.
The organising committee expressed sincere gratitude to all guests, speakers, partners and participants whose collective efforts and support contributed to the grand success of the event. True to its vision of “Thinking Beyond Boundaries,” MANTHAN 2026 emerged as a powerful reminder of the transformative potential of dialogue, wisdom and shared purpose.
