

B-A-HONS in Odia at Maharaja Purna Chandra Autonomous College


Mayurbhanj, Odisha
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About the Specialization
What is Odia at Maharaja Purna Chandra Autonomous College Mayurbhanj?
This Odia (Hons) program at Maharaja Purna Chandra Autonomous College focuses on a comprehensive understanding of Odia language, literature, and culture from ancient to modern times. It delves into the rich literary traditions, linguistic evolution, and critical theories, preparing students for various roles in the vibrant cultural and media landscape of Odisha and India. The program emphasizes both classical texts and contemporary literary trends, addressing the growing demand for linguistic and cultural experts in the Indian market.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates with a keen interest in linguistics, literature, and cultural studies, particularly those passionate about the Odia language and its heritage. It also caters to individuals aspiring for careers in teaching, journalism, publishing, translation, and media in Odisha and across India. Students with a strong foundation in humanities and an inclination towards research and critical analysis will find this program deeply rewarding.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including academic positions as lecturers or researchers, content creators for digital platforms, journalists for Odia media, translators, editors in publishing houses, and cultural heritage managers. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 2.5 LPA to 4.5 LPA, with experienced professionals earning significantly more. The program provides a solid foundation for pursuing higher studies like M.A., M.Phil., and Ph.D. in Odia or related fields, aligning with opportunities in government and private sectors.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Ancient & Modern Odia Literary Foundations- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate ample time to studying the canonical works of ancient and medieval Odia literature, alongside the foundational texts of the modern era. Focus on understanding the historical context, literary movements, and biographical details of key authors. Participate actively in classroom discussions and utilize library resources for in-depth analysis.
Tools & Resources
College library, Online archives of Odia literature, Study groups, Faculty office hours
Career Connection
Builds a strong analytical base essential for all future literary studies, research, and content creation roles in Odia, especially in academia and publishing.
Enhance Language Proficiency and Communication Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage with the MIL Odia or English Communication courses to strengthen foundational language skills. Practice written and oral communication regularly through essays, presentations, and debates. Read Odia newspapers and magazines daily to improve vocabulary and comprehension.
Tools & Resources
Odia dictionaries, Online grammar resources, News portals (e.g., Sambad, Dharitri), College debate clubs
Career Connection
Crucial for effective communication in any professional role, particularly in journalism, teaching, and public relations within Odisha''''s linguistic context.
Cultivate Critical Reading and Annotation Habits- (Semester 1-2)
Develop a systematic approach to reading literary texts, focusing on identifying themes, literary devices, and authorial intent. Practice annotating texts and summarizing key arguments. Maintain a reading journal to document insights and questions, fostering deeper engagement with the material.
Tools & Resources
Highlighters, Notebooks, Digital annotation tools for PDFs, Literary criticism guides
Career Connection
Essential for academic success, research, and any role requiring detailed text analysis, such as editing, content review, or scholarly writing.
Intermediate Stage
Engage in Regional Folkloric and Linguistic Research- (Semester 3-5)
Beyond classroom learning, undertake small research projects on local Odia folk literature, language dialects, or traditions. Interview local artists, storytellers, or elders. Participate in departmental workshops or field trips related to Odia culture.
Tools & Resources
Local cultural organizations, Oral history techniques, Digital recording devices, Research paper databases
Career Connection
Develops primary research skills, critical for academic careers, cultural preservation roles, and specialized content development within the Odia cultural sphere.
Develop Practical Writing and Editing Skills- (Semester 3-5)
Actively participate in the Skill Enhancement Courses (SEC) like ''''Odia Essay and Public Speaking Skills'''' and ''''Odia Translation and Editing.'''' Seek opportunities to write for college magazines, departmental newsletters, or local online platforms. Practice translating texts between Odia and English.
Tools & Resources
Grammar and style guides, Translation software for learning, College publications, Local community groups for practical projects
Career Connection
Directly applicable to careers in journalism, publishing, content writing, and technical translation, enhancing employability in media and communication sectors.
Explore Interdisciplinary Connections and Generic Electives- (Semester 3-5)
Strategically choose Generic Elective (GE) courses that complement your Odia studies, such as History, Political Science, Sociology, or Digital Media. These courses can provide broader perspectives and enhance analytical thinking, allowing for a more holistic understanding of society and culture.
Tools & Resources
Academic advisors, Course catalogs of other departments, Online resources for interdisciplinary studies
Career Connection
Broadens knowledge base, making graduates more versatile and appealing to employers seeking well-rounded candidates with diverse analytical abilities.
Advanced Stage
Master Literary Theories and Critical Analysis- (Semester 6)
Dive deep into ''''Literary Theories and Criticism'''' (ODIA-C-9) to understand various critical approaches (e.g., Rasa, Dhvani, Western theories). Apply these theories to analyze complex Odia literary works. Participate in advanced seminars and literary discussions.
Tools & Resources
Scholarly journals, Critical theory texts, University library''''s e-resources, Faculty mentorship
Career Connection
Essential for advanced research, academic pursuits, and sophisticated literary criticism roles in academia, think tanks, or specialized media organizations.
Specialized Skill Development through DSE- (Semester 6)
Make an informed choice for Discipline Specific Electives (DSE) like ''''Language Technology and Odia'''' or ''''Research Methodology'''' based on your career aspirations. If aiming for digital content, focus on technology. If academia, focus on research. Develop project-based skills in your chosen DSE.
Tools & Resources
Specialized software, Research databases, Mentorship from experts in the chosen DSE field, Internships related to DSE
Career Connection
Directly prepares students for niche roles in language technology, academic research, or applied Odia fields, significantly enhancing employability and specialization.
Prepare for Post-Graduation and Career Entry- (Semester 6)
Begin preparing for competitive exams for government jobs (e.g., OPSC, UPSC with Odia optional), M.A. entrance exams, or job interviews. Polish your resume, practice mock interviews, and attend career counseling sessions. Network with alumni and professionals in your chosen field.
Tools & Resources
Career counseling cell, Alumni network, Online job portals (e.g., Naukri, LinkedIn), Exam preparation books, Interview guides
Career Connection
Ensures a smooth transition into further education or the professional world, optimizing placement opportunities in various Indian sectors.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- No eligibility criteria specified
Duration: 6 semesters / 3 years
Credits: 124 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 20%, External: 80%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ODIA-C-1 | Ancient and Medieval Odia Literature | Core | 6 | Social, Political, Cultural background of Ancient Odia Literature, Sarala Das and his works, Panchasakha literature and philosophy, Upendra Bhanja''''s literary contributions, Dinakrishna Das and Abhimanyu Samantasinghara, Major literary trends of the medieval period |
| GE-1 | Generic Elective - I | Generic Elective | 6 | Student''''s choice from other departments, specific syllabus not provided. |
| AECC-1 | Environmental Science / MIL (Odia) | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 4 | Ecosystems and their functions, Natural Resources and management, Biodiversity and Conservation, Environmental Pollution and Control, Social Issues and the Environment (or Odia Language and Grammar for MIL Odia) |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ODIA-C-2 | Modern Odia Literature | Core | 6 | Social, Political, Cultural background of Modern Odia Literature, Fakir Mohan Senapati''''s prose and short stories, Radhanath Ray''''s epic poetry, Gangadhar Meher''''s lyrical compositions, Gopabandhu Das and the Satyabadi era, Kalindi Charan Panigrahi and the Sabuja Group |
| GE-2 | Generic Elective - II | Generic Elective | 6 | Student''''s choice from other departments, specific syllabus not provided. |
| AECC-2 | English Communication / MIL (Odia) | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 4 | Grammar and Vocabulary building, Reading Comprehension strategies, Basic Writing Skills (Paragraphs, Essays), Listening and Speaking for effective communication, Presentation techniques (or Advanced Odia Language Skills for MIL Odia) |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ODIA-C-3 | Linguistics and History of Odia Language | Core | 6 | Nature and types of Language, Reasons for Language Change, Indian Aryan Language families, Origin and Development of Odia Language, Phonology and Morphology of Odia Language, Dialects and variations of Odia |
| ODIA-C-4 | Folk Literature | Core | 6 | Nature and divisions of Folk Literature, Folk Songs (Pala, Daskathia, Jatra), Folk Tales and their significance, Folk Drama and traditional performances, Folk Legends, Myths, and Ritual Stories, Folk Culture and Tradition of Odisha |
| GE-3 | Generic Elective - III | Generic Elective | 6 | Student''''s choice from other departments, specific syllabus not provided. |
| SEC-1 | Odia Essay and Public Speaking Skills | Skill Enhancement Course | 4 | Art of Essay Writing and its components, Different types of Essays (descriptive, analytical, argumentative), Art of Public Speaking and voice modulation, Extempore Speech techniques and practice, Presentation Style and body language for public address |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ODIA-C-5 | Odia Drama and One-Act Plays | Core | 6 | Origin and Development of Odia Drama, Ramashankar Ray and early Odia theatre, Kalicharan Patnaik''''s contributions to drama, Manoranjan Das and modern Odia plays, Biswajit Das and contemporary drama trends, Study of selected One-Act Plays |
| ODIA-C-6 | Odia Novels | Core | 6 | Origin and Development of Odia Novel, Fakir Mohan Senapati''''s Chha Mana Atha Guntha, Gopinath Mohanty''''s Mati Motala, Kanhu Charan Mohanty''''s Shasti, Surendra Mohanty''''s Nilashaila, Trends and themes in contemporary Odia novels |
| GE-4 | Generic Elective - IV | Generic Elective | 6 | Student''''s choice from other departments, specific syllabus not provided. |
| SEC-2 | Odia Translation and Editing | Skill Enhancement Course | 4 | Nature and types of Translation, Qualities of good translation and challenges, Art of Editing and proofreading principles, Proofreading symbols and techniques, Translation and Editing in Mass Media (news, articles) |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ODIA-C-7 | Odia Short Stories | Core | 6 | Origin and Development of Odia Short Story, Fakir Mohan Senapati as pioneer of short story, Godabarish Mohapatra''''s satirical stories, Manoj Das''''s mystical and psychological narratives, Pratibha Ray and contemporary women writers, Jagannath Prasad Das and postmodern trends |
| ODIA-C-8 | Odia Essay and Criticism | Core | 6 | Origin and Development of Odia Essay Literature, Biswanath Kar''''s intellectual essays, Shashibhushan Ray''''s literary contributions, Gopal Chandra Praharaj''''s humorous and social essays, Krushna Chandra Panigrahi''''s historical essays, Evolution and Trends of Odia Literary Criticism |
| ODIA-C-9 | Literary Theories and Criticism | Core | 6 | Nature and Purpose of Literature, Indian Rasa Theory and its application, Dhvani Theory and its significance, Vakrokti Theory in poetic analysis, An Introduction to Western Literary Theories (e.g., Romanticism, Modernism, Structuralism) |
| ODIA-DSE-1(a) | Modern Prose Forms in Odia Literature | Discipline Specific Elective (Choice) | 6 | Autobiography as a literary form, Biography and its narrative techniques, Travelogue and its cultural insights, Humorous Essays (Ramya Rachana), Personal essays and memoirs, Evolution of various prose forms in Odia |
| ODIA-DSE-1(b) | Comparative Literature and Review | Discipline Specific Elective (Choice) | 6 | Nature and scope of Comparative Literature, Methods of comparative study, Western and Eastern Critical Methods, Interdisciplinary approaches to literature, Comparative Studies in Odia Literature with other Indian literatures, Principles of literary review and evaluation |
| ODIA-DSE-1(c) | Journalism and Periodical Literature | Discipline Specific Elective (Choice) | 6 | History of Odia Periodical Literature, Role of Newspapers and Magazines in society, Principles of Reporting and News Writing, Editorial functions and responsibilities, Mass Media and Literature''''s interaction, Ethics in Journalism |
| ODIA-DSE-2(a) | Language Technology and Odia | Discipline Specific Elective (Choice) | 6 | Relationship between Language and Computer, Odia Typing and Software applications, Machine Translation Software for Odia, Speech Recognition Technology for Odia, Text-to-Speech synthesis for Odia, E-publishing and Digital Content Creation in Odia |
| ODIA-DSE-2(b) | Research Methodology | Discipline Specific Elective (Choice) | 6 | Nature and types of Research, Formulating a Research Proposal, Methods of Data Collection (primary and secondary), Techniques of Data Analysis, Structure and writing of a Research Paper/Thesis, Referencing and avoiding plagiarism |
| ODIA-DSE-2(c) | Applied Odia | Discipline Specific Elective (Choice) | 6 | Official Correspondence in Odia, Advertisement Writing and persuasive language, Minutes Preparation for meetings, Script Writing for Radio and Television, Anchoring and Stage Management in Odia programs, Public Speaking in formal contexts |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ODIA-C-10 | Odia Poetry | Core | 6 | Trends in Modern Odia Poetry, Sachi Routray and experimental poetry, Guruprasad Mohanty and modern consciousness, Ramakanta Rath''''s distinctive style, Sitakant Mahapatra''''s exploration of identity and nature, Jayanta Mahapatra''''s English and Odia poetry |
| ODIA-DSE-3(a) | Women in Odia Literature | Discipline Specific Elective (Choice) | 6 | Representation of women in ancient Odia literature, Women writers and their contributions, Feminist perspectives in Odia criticism, Themes of gender, identity, and liberation, Challenges and achievements of women in Odia literary sphere, Selected works by prominent women writers |
| ODIA-DSE-3(b) | Ancient Odia Periodicals | Discipline Specific Elective (Choice) | 6 | Origin and evolution of Odia periodicals, Role of ''''Utkal Deepika'''', ''''Sambad Bahika'''' and others, Influence of periodicals on Odia language and literature, Prominent editors and their contributions, Periodicals as a reflection of socio-cultural changes, Preservation and study of historical periodicals |
| ODIA-DSE-3(c) | Tribal Culture in Odia Language and Literature | Discipline Specific Elective (Choice) | 6 | Introduction to tribal cultures of Odisha, Representation of tribal life in Odia literature, Folklore and oral traditions of tribal communities, Linguistic diversity among tribal languages, Challenges and issues faced by tribal communities in literature, Promoting tribal voices and narratives |
| ODIA-DSE-4(a) | East Indian Literature | Discipline Specific Elective (Choice) | 6 | Introduction to major East Indian Literatures (Bengali, Assamese), Comparative study of literary movements and themes, Influence of regional histories on literature, Translating and appreciating East Indian works, Common cultural threads in regional literatures, Literary exchanges and influences |
| ODIA-DSE-4(b) | Human Values in Literature | Discipline Specific Elective (Choice) | 6 | Concept of human values in literary texts, Exploration of ethics, morality, and justice, Role of literature in shaping human consciousness, Universal themes in diverse literary works, Literature as a medium for social change and empathy, Impact of literature on individual and societal values |
| ODIA-DSE-4(c) | Environment and Nature in Odia Literature | Discipline Specific Elective (Choice) | 6 | Nature as a theme in ancient and modern Odia poetry, Environmental consciousness in Odia prose, Ecological perspectives in literary criticism, Impact of urbanization and industrialization on nature narratives, Literature''''s role in promoting environmental awareness, Symbolism of nature in Odia literary works |




