An OdishaPlus Book Review on the Coffee Table Book featuring the journey of Bhubaneswar
Sriram Singh Rattan
Title: BBI Bhubaneswar Completes 75 Years
Author: Debasish Patanaik
Publisher: Ketaki Books
As I delved into the pages of ‘BBI Bhubaneswar Completes 75 Years’, I was left awestruck by the sheer magnitude of the city’s transformation over the past seven and a half decades. Authored by Debasish Patanaik, a renowned business leader and author, this coffee table book serves as a testament to the city’s rich history, vibrant culture, and modern developments. Coinciding with the 75th anniversary of Bhubaneswar being declared as the capital of Odisha, this publication is a fitting tribute to the city’s glorious past and its future aspirations.
Patanaik’s passion for the city shines through in every page, as he seamlessly blends historical and contemporary photographs to create a unique visual narrative. The book’s attention to detail is impressive, with each image carefully selected to highlight a specific aspect of the city’s transformation. From the majestic temples that once towered over the city skyline to the modern infrastructure that now characterizes its urban landscape, every photograph tells a story of growth, progress, and transformation.
The book’s narrative is woven around a stunning collection of photographs, meticulously curated to showcase the city’s evolution from its early days of town planning to its current status as a thriving metropolis. The images transport readers through time from the laying of the foundation stone in April 1948 to the city’s official declaration as the capital on August 19, 1949 along with its other development milestones as recent as the year 2024. This visual journey is not only a nostalgic trip down memory lane but also a poignant reminder of the city’s resilience and adaptability.
Nostalgia and Discovery
One of the book’s greatest strengths is its ability to appeal to a wide range of readers. For those who have called Bhubaneswar home, the book is a trip down memory lane, evoking memories of a bygone era. The photographs of familiar landmarks and events resonate deeply with long-time residents, reminding them of their personal histories intertwined with the city’s development. For newcomers to the city, it offers a unique glimpse into the city’s history and culture, providing a deeper understanding of the place they now call home. This dual appeal makes the book an invaluable resource for anyone looking to connect with Bhubaneswar’s past and present.
Visual Storytelling
The book’s production quality is exceptional, with high-quality paper and printing that does justice to the stunning photographs. The layout is intuitive, making it easy to navigate the book’s contents. The accompanying text is informative and engaging, providing context to the images without overpowering them. Each section is thoughtfully organized, allowing readers to appreciate the chronological progression of the city’s development while also exploring thematic elements such as culture, architecture, and community life.
A Celebration of Culture
Moreover, ‘BBI Bhubaneswar Completes 75 Years’ goes beyond mere documentation; it celebrates the city’s cultural heritage. The book captures the essence of Bhubaneswar’s festivals, traditions, and daily life, showcasing how these elements have persisted and evolved over the decades. The vibrant colors and dynamic compositions of the photographs bring to life the energy of the city, inviting readers to immerse themselves in its cultural tapestry.
The narrative also highlights the challenges faced by the city, including urbanization and modernization, and how these have been navigated by its inhabitants. This aspect of the book serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between preserving cultural identity and embracing progress, a theme that resonates with many contemporary urban centers around the world.
Debasish Patanaik has created a masterpiece that will be cherished by generations to come, a true celebration of Bhubaneswar’s past, present, and future. This book not only serves as a historical record but also as an inspiration for future generations to appreciate and contribute to the ongoing narrative of Bhubaneswar.
In conclusion, ‘BBI Bhubaneswar Completes 75 Years’ is a must-have for anyone interested in the history and culture of this vibrant city. It is a testament to the power of photography to tell stories and evoke emotions, and a fitting tribute to the city’s 75th anniversary as the capital of Odisha.
(The author is a communication professional. Views expressed are personal.)
