IIM Sambalpur Hosts International Seminar on Freedom Struggle and Sustainable Management

Introduction

IIM Sambalpur, in collaboration with the Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR), New Delhi, recently organized an international seminar titled “Unknown Aspects of Freedom Struggle; Cultural Heritage and Sustainable Management in the Indian Knowledge System.” The seminar took place at the Rangavati Centre for Excellence in Culture and Sustainable Management, focusing on exploring lesser-known aspects of India’s freedom struggle, particularly in western Odisha, while linking these historical narratives with contemporary sustainable management practices.

The event shed light on the heroic resistance of Veer Surendra Sai and the Kudopali Massacre, two crucial but often overlooked events in India’s fight for independence. Additionally, the seminar emphasized the rich cultural heritage of western Odisha and its relevance to modern sustainability practices.

With distinguished scholars and experts from across the globe in attendance, the seminar successfully facilitated discussions, academic presentations, and the release of a significant research report that documented indigenous knowledge systems and their role in sustainable management.

Spotlight on Lesser-Known Aspects of the Freedom Struggle in Western Odisha

Veer Surendra Sai: The Unsung Hero of India’s Freedom Struggle

Veer Surendra Sai remains an iconic yet underappreciated figure in India’s independence movement. A tribal leader from western Odisha, he led a ferocious resistance against British rule, displaying remarkable courage and resilience.

Early Life and Resistance Against the British

Born in 1809 in Khinda, Odisha, Surendra Sai belonged to the ruling family of Sambalpur. He was a rightful heir to the throne, but the British East India Company rejected his claim, instead placing a puppet ruler on the throne. This sparked his lifelong rebellion against British colonial rule, and he emerged as a formidable warrior leading numerous guerrilla attacks against British forces.

Guerrilla Warfare and Lasting Impact

Sai’s guerrilla warfare tactics posed a severe challenge to the British forces, forcing them to deploy substantial military resources in the region. His knowledge of the rugged terrain of western Odisha allowed him and his loyal followers to evade capture for years. However, he was ultimately arrested in 1864 and died in Asirgarh Jail in 1884.

Despite his extraordinary contribution, Veer Surendra Sai remains largely overlooked in mainstream history books. The seminar at IIM Sambalpur provided a platform to revisit and honor his legacy, ensuring that future generations recognize his sacrifices for India’s independence.

The Kudopali Massacre: A Forgotten Chapter in India’s Freedom Struggle

The Kudopali Massacre is another crucial but neglected event in India’s freedom struggle. Taking place in western Odisha, it was a violent crackdown by British forces against local freedom fighters who were demanding self-rule and resisting colonial oppression.

Historical Context and Significance

The Kudopali Massacre is often compared to Jallianwala Bagh, but it remains largely undocumented in mainstream narratives.
The indigenous resistance movements in Odisha were as significant as those in other parts of India, but they have not received the recognition they deserve.
The seminar brought forth new research and discussions on this tragic event, highlighting its impact on local communities and its role in shaping regional resistance.

By uncovering these stories, scholars at the seminar emphasized the importance of preserving regional histories to ensure that India’s freedom struggle is understood in its entirety, beyond just well-known events like the Sepoy Mutiny of 1857 or Quit India Movement.

Cultural Heritage and Sustainable Management: A Modern Perspective

The seminar not only focused on historical narratives but also explored the interconnection between cultural heritage and sustainable management.

Sustainability Lessons from Indigenous Knowledge Systems

Western Odisha is home to rich traditional practices, many of which align with modern sustainability principles. The seminar highlighted how:

Tribal Communities in Odisha have practiced eco-friendly and sustainable lifestyles for centuries.
Weaving Traditions, like the famous Sambalpuri textiles, emphasize handmade, eco-conscious practices that minimize waste.
Agricultural Practices in Odisha, such as organic farming and water conservation techniques, offer solutions to contemporary environmental challenges.

Global Recognition of Indigenous Cultural Sustainability

Several international experts at the seminar emphasized how indigenous traditions can provide insights into modern sustainability practices.

Key Takeaways from Global Experts

Professor Dr. Phoebe Koundouri (UNSDSN Global Climate Hub, Greece) highlighted how climate action can integrate indigenous wisdom for sustainable development.
Professor Otaviano Canuto (Brookings Institution, USA) discussed economic sustainability in relation to local economies and self-reliance.
Dr. Tamar Bagratia (Tbilisi State University, Georgia) emphasized the role of culture in shaping economic policies for sustainability.

Their discussions reinforced the importance of preserving India’s cultural heritage as a means to achieve sustainable development goals (SDGs).

The Role of IIM Sambalpur’s Rangavati Centre for Excellence

A Commitment to Research and Knowledge Sharing

IIM Sambalpur’s Rangavati Centre for Excellence in Culture and Sustainable Management has emerged as a leading platform for:

Interdisciplinary Research on history, culture, and sustainability.
Academic Collaborations with national and international institutions.
Promoting Indigenous Narratives that are often ignored in mainstream academia.

Director Professor Mahadeo Jaiswal highlighted how the centre’s research initiatives align with India’s National Education Policy (NEP 2020). By integrating historical studies with sustainable management, the institute is bridging the gap between past wisdom and future solutions.

Key Sessions and Discussions

The seminar featured two primary sessions:

1. Freedom Struggles and Culture

Led by Alok Bhoi, Shri Birendra Jhankar, and Dr. Bibhudutta Mishra, this session focused on:

The resistance movements of lesser-known historical figures in western Odisha.
The role of oral histories and folklore in preserving stories of freedom fighters.
The need for academic documentation of regional struggles.

2. Cultural Heritage and Sustainable Management

Moderated by Shri Dukhi Sebak Sahu, Shri Rajesh Jhankar, and Sraban Kumar Bag, this session explored:

The sustainability of traditional weaving and textile industries.
The ecological benefits of indigenous farming techniques.
The potential of cultural heritage tourism in driving sustainable economic growth.

Launch of Research Report and Compendium

One of the seminar’s most significant milestones was the release of a comprehensive research report and compendium documenting:

Key historical insights on freedom struggles in Odisha.
Detailed case studies on cultural sustainability practices.
Policy recommendations for integrating indigenous knowledge into sustainable management.

Conclusion: A Landmark Event for Academia and Policy Making

The international seminar at IIM Sambalpur successfully brought together scholars, policymakers, and sustainability experts to explore the intersection of history, culture, and sustainable management.

By revisiting forgotten aspects of India’s freedom struggle and highlighting indigenous knowledge systems, the event emphasized the importance of cultural preservation for sustainable development.

With over 100 participants engaging in thought-provoking discussions, the seminar reinforced IIM Sambalpur’s commitment to research, education, and knowledge dissemination on an international platform.

This event marks a significant step in ensuring that unsung heroes like Veer Surendra Sai and the sustainable traditions of western Odisha receive the recognition they deserve, contributing to a more inclusive understanding of India’s heritage and future sustainability strategies.

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