BHUBANESWAR: The Devi Award recipients took a moment to reflect on their journeys that led to this esteemed recognition, while also looking forward to the work that remains ahead of them.
Conservationist Nalini Kandi expressed that the award signifies her dedication to environmental protection and fostering community action. “Receiving the Devi Award acknowledges my commitment to preserving nature. I will keep planting trees and motivating others to protect our environment. This effort can help mitigate storms and safeguard future generations,” Kandi stated.
Odissi dancer and Padma Awardee Aruna Mohanty shared that this recognition serves as a chance to utilize her art to address societal issues. “As a woman, I feel a strong responsibility toward my community, and dance is the medium through which I can express myself,” she remarked.
Actor and theatre artist Sujata Priyambada Choudhury noted that the award signifies a journey influenced by the powerful impact of theatre. “Overcoming societal limitations to enter the theatre was a challenge. Nevertheless, the love from my audience and the recognition I’ve received have empowered me to sustain a meaningful career,” she said.
Senior IPS officer Shyni S expressed that the award encourages her to continue addressing social inequalities. “When discussing crimes against women, we must confront the underlying patriarchy. I urge all women to support one another on this journey,” she requested.
Para-athlete Jayanti Behera, who achieved remarkable success at just 17, remarked that the award celebrates capabilities rather than limitations. “I don’t identify as a para-athlete and encourage others to see beyond labels and take pride in representing our nation,” she stated.
Renowned author Paramita Satpathy articulated that the award acknowledges her belief that writing transcends gender. “A writer is simply a writer,” she declared. Pattachitra artist Laxmi Meher echoed similar sentiments, expressing her motivation to continue promoting traditional art and empowering young women. “My passion for Pattachitra painting drives me, and teaching girls to paint is a joy. Recognition like the Devi Award inspires me to carry this legacy forward,” she shared.
Pearl culture expert and entrepreneur Nina Singh expressed gratitude to The New Indian Express, pledging to keep creating opportunities for others. Startup entrepreneur Sumona Karjee Mishra emphasized that the Devi Awards send a message to women that ambitious goals are attainable. “Eastern India and Odisha are just as capable as any other region in the world. If I can achieve my dreams, so can all girls,” she asserted.
Molecular scientist Prof. Debasmita Pankaj Alone remarked that the award strengthens her conviction that knowledge should ultimately benefit society. “Strive for excellence in everything you pursue,” she advised fellow women.
Profiles of the Awardees
Shyni S (Public Servant)
Shyni S, a senior IPS officer from the 2001 batch, currently serves as the Additional Director General of Police for the Crime Against Women and Children Wing in Odisha. Originally from Kerala, she has held various positions, including SP of Deogarh, Sundargarh, Balangir, and Jharsuguda districts. During her tenure as DIG, she effectively tackled left-wing extremism in the Koraput range and received multiple accolades for her service, including the Governor’s Police Medal for Meritorious Service in 2015. She has contributed significantly to drafting the Odisha government’s ‘Policy for Women and Girls’ while also being a published writer and poet.
Jayanti Behera (Para-athlete)
Jayanti Behera, 27, hails from a modest background in Manitri Sahi, Sakhigopal. A tragic accident in her childhood led to burn contracture on her left elbow, but she overcame her challenges to excel in para-athletics. Recognized for her talent by coach Bishnu Prasad Mishra, Jayanti has made remarkable strides, including winning three gold medals at the 2016 Para-athletics National Championship. She has also represented India at the London World Para Athletics Championships and earned accolades at the Asian Para Games.
Nalini Kandi (Conservationist)
Nalini Kandi, a fisherwoman and mangrove conservation advocate from Sana Jhadling village in Puri, has dedicated her life to environmental causes. Experiencing the devastation of the 1999 Super Cyclone ignited her passion for mangrove conservation. Through her leadership in the Women for Mangroves movement, she has successfully motivated 145 women to engage in conservation efforts, resulting in the planting of approximately 65,000 mangroves.
Aruna Mohanty (Dance Guru)
Padma Shri Aruna Mohanty, a distinguished Odissi dancer and choreographer, has been a prominent figure in the dance community since 1972. She has choreographed numerous significant events and continues to address important social themes through her performances. Her work often explores gender issues and the impact of natural disasters on society.
Sujata Priyambada Choudhury (Actor)
Sujata Priyambada Choudhury is a multifaceted artist, serving as an actor, theatre director, and social activist. With over three decades of experience, she has performed in various plays addressing critical social issues and has conducted theatre workshops in rural areas to raise awareness.
Paramita Satpathy (Author)
Paramita Satpathy, an accomplished IRS officer and author, has made significant contributions to Indian literature, with over 25 published works. She continues to advocate for women’s voices in literature.
