

BA in Odia at Mahatma Gandhi College, Baisinga


Mayurbhanj, Odisha
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About the Specialization
What is Odia at Mahatma Gandhi College, Baisinga Mayurbhanj?
This Odia program at Mahatma Gandhi College, Baisinga, focuses on a comprehensive study of Odia language, literature, culture, and linguistics. It delves into the rich historical evolution of Odia literature from ancient to modern times, exploring diverse genres like poetry, prose, drama, and folk traditions. The program also covers the linguistic foundations of Odia and its cultural significance in the Indian context, preparing students for various literary and communication-centric roles.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates with a passion for language and literature, particularly those interested in Odia culture and heritage. It also suits individuals aspiring to careers in teaching, journalism, publishing, content creation, or cultural research in Odisha and beyond. Students with a strong foundation in humanities and a keen interest in regional Indian languages will find this specialization highly engaging.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in Odisha''''s vibrant literary and media sectors. Opportunities include roles as teachers, content writers, journalists, translators, editors in publishing houses, or cultural researchers. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 2.5 LPA to 4.5 LPA, with experienced professionals earning significantly more. The program fosters critical thinking and communication skills, vital for growth in India''''s dynamic job market.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Fundamental Odia Language & Literature- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on building a strong base in Odia grammar, ancient and medieval literature. Regularly read prescribed texts, attend all lectures, and actively participate in discussions. Form study groups to clarify concepts and prepare for internal assessments.
Tools & Resources
University prescribed textbooks, Odia dictionaries and grammar books, Online Odia literary archives, Peer study groups
Career Connection
A solid foundation is crucial for excelling in higher semesters and forms the bedrock for any career in Odia literature, teaching, or journalism.
Cultivate Effective Study Habits & Time Management- (Semester 1-2)
Develop a consistent study routine, allocate specific time for each subject, and practice regular revision. Utilize the college library for additional reading and research materials. Prioritize understanding concepts over rote memorization.
Tools & Resources
Study planners, College library resources, Online academic calendars
Career Connection
Strong academic discipline and time management skills are transferable to any professional role, enhancing productivity and reliability.
Engage in Cultural & Literary Activities- (Semester 1-2)
Participate in college cultural events, literary quizzes, debate competitions, and creative writing workshops. This helps in practical application of language skills, boosts confidence, and provides exposure to diverse perspectives.
Tools & Resources
College literary club, Local cultural organizations, Regional literary magazines
Career Connection
Enhances soft skills, networking abilities, and a deeper understanding of Odia culture, which are assets for careers in media, cultural management, and education.
Intermediate Stage
Undertake Practical Skill Enhancement Courses- (Semester 3-4)
Actively engage with Skill Enhancement Courses (SEC) like Journalism & Mass Media or Creative Writing. Seek practical exposure through college newspaper contributions, short film critiques, or volunteering for local media initiatives. Focus on developing real-world communication skills.
Tools & Resources
SEC course materials, Local newspapers/magazines, Online creative writing platforms, Workshops on media skills
Career Connection
Directly builds employable skills in communication, content creation, and media, opening doors to careers in journalism, advertising, and content marketing in India.
Explore Interdisciplinary Subjects via Generic Electives- (Semester 3-4)
Strategically choose Generic Elective (GE) courses from other disciplines (e.g., History, Political Science, Economics) that complement Odia studies. This broadens your academic perspective and helps in understanding socio-cultural contexts relevant to literature.
Tools & Resources
GE course syllabi, Interdisciplinary academic journals, University academic advisors
Career Connection
Develops a holistic understanding, critical for roles requiring research, policy analysis, or inter-cultural communication, often valued in government and NGOs.
Network with Faculty and Literary Figures- (Semester 3-4)
Actively seek guidance from faculty for research projects or deeper understanding of specific literary theories. Attend literary events, seminars, and author interactions organized by the department or local literary associations to build connections with eminent personalities in Odia literature.
Tools & Resources
Faculty office hours, University/local literary event calendars, LinkedIn for professional connections
Career Connection
Establishes professional networks for internships, mentorship, and future job opportunities in the literary and academic fields in India.
Advanced Stage
Engage in Specialization-Specific Research & Projects- (Semester 5-6)
Undertake a research project or dissertation on a chosen topic within Odia literature or linguistics, leveraging Discipline Specific Electives (DSE). This allows for deep dives into areas like Odia linguistics, poetics, or translation, showcasing specialized expertise.
Tools & Resources
Research methodologies books, Academic databases, Mentorship from senior faculty, Thesis writing guides
Career Connection
Develops independent research skills, crucial for postgraduate studies (MA, M.Phil, PhD) and roles in academia, research institutions, and specialized content development.
Prepare for Post-Graduation & Competitive Exams- (Semester 5-6)
Begin preparing for entrance exams for MA in Odia, B.Ed, or other relevant postgraduate courses. For those interested in government jobs, start preparing for Odisha Civil Services (OCS) or other state-level competitive exams where Odia is a key subject.
Tools & Resources
Previous year question papers, Coaching institutes (if applicable), Online test series, Career counseling services
Career Connection
Directly aligns with career goals in academia, teaching, or public service, ensuring a smooth transition post-graduation.
Develop Portfolio of Written Work & Translations- (Semester 5-6)
Compile a portfolio of your best creative writing pieces, essays, critical analyses, and translation works undertaken during the course. This demonstrates your practical skills and understanding of the language and literature to potential employers or academic institutions.
Tools & Resources
Personal blog/website, Digital portfolio platforms, Critique from mentors
Career Connection
A strong portfolio is a tangible asset for seeking jobs in publishing, content writing, translation agencies, and media houses, providing concrete examples of your abilities.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Pass in +2 (or equivalent) examination with at least 40% aggregate marks, conducted by CHSE, Odisha, or an equivalent board/council for arts stream admission. Specific subject percentages may apply for Honours.
Duration: 6 semesters / 3 years
Credits: 156 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 20%, External: 80%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AECC-I | Environmental Studies | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 4 | Multidisciplinary Nature of Environmental Studies, Natural Resources, Ecosystems, Biodiversity and Conservation, Environmental Pollution, Human Population and Environment |
| OD-CC-I | Odia Sahityara Adi Parba O Madhya Parba (History of Odia Literature - Ancient & Medieval) | Core | 6 | Origin and Evolution of Odia Language, Sarala Mahabharata, Panchasakha Literature, Vaishnava Literature, Ritika Literature, Upendra Bhanja |
| OD-CC-II | Odia Bhasara Utpatti O Kramavikash (Origin & Evolution of Odia Language) | Core | 6 | Indo-Aryan Language Family, Proto-Odia to Old Odia, Middle Odia to Modern Odia, Phonology and Morphology of Odia, Dialects of Odia, Influence of other languages |
| GE-I | Generic Elective - I | Generic Elective | 6 | Chosen from another discipline (e.g., History, Political Science, Economics), Fundamental concepts of the chosen discipline, Key theories and methodologies, Relevance in contemporary society |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AECC-II | MIL (Odia) | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 4 | Odia Grammar and Composition, Short Stories and Poetry, Essay Writing, Letter Writing, Translation Exercises |
| OD-CC-III | Adhunika Odia Sahitya (Modern Odia Literature) | Core | 6 | Fakir Mohan Senapati Era, Satyabadi Yuga, Pragati Yuga, Post-Independence Odia Literature, Modern Trends in Poetry and Prose, Prominent Modern Writers |
| OD-CC-IV | Odia Natak O Ekankika (Odia Drama & One-Act Play) | Core | 6 | Evolution of Odia Drama, Pre-Independence Drama, Post-Independence Drama, One-Act Plays: Characteristics and Themes, Prominent Dramatists, Theatrical Traditions in Odisha |
| GE-II | Generic Elective - II | Generic Elective | 6 | Chosen from another discipline (e.g., History, Political Science, Economics), Advanced concepts of the chosen discipline, Analytical frameworks, Contemporary issues and debates |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| OD-CC-V | Odia Upanyasa O Galpa (Odia Novel & Short Story) | Core | 6 | History of Odia Novels, Evolution of Odia Short Story, Major Novelists and their Works, Themes and Techniques in Odia Fiction, Regionalism in Odia Novels, Contemporary Trends |
| OD-CC-VI | Odia Kavita (Odia Poetry) | Core | 6 | Ancient Odia Poetry (Sarala, Panchasakha), Medieval Odia Poetry (Ritika, Bhakti), Modern Odia Poetry: Upendra Bhanja to Contemporary, Forms and Structures of Odia Poetry, Symbolism and Imagery, Poetic Movements |
| OD-CC-VII | Sahitya Tatwa O Alochana (Literary Theory & Criticism) | Core | 6 | Introduction to Literary Theory, Classical Indian Poetics (Rasa, Dhwani, Alankara), Western Literary Theories (Formalism, Structuralism), Marxist and Feminist Criticism, Post-Colonial and Subaltern Studies, Practical Criticism of Odia Texts |
| OD-SEC-I | Patrakarita O Gana Madhyama (Journalism & Mass Media) | Skill Enhancement Course | 4 | Fundamentals of Journalism, Reporting and Editing Techniques, Types of Media: Print, Electronic, Digital, Role of Media in Society, Media Ethics and Laws, Introduction to Public Relations |
| GE-III | Generic Elective - III | Generic Elective | 6 | Chosen from another discipline (e.g., History, Political Science, Economics), Interdisciplinary perspectives, Research methodologies in the chosen field, Case studies and applications |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| OD-CC-VIII | Loka Sahitya O Loka Sanskruti (Folk Literature & Culture) | Core | 6 | Definition and Significance of Folk Literature, Folk Tales and Legends of Odisha, Folk Songs and Ballads, Folk Dramas and Art Forms, Customs, Rituals, and Beliefs, Preservation of Folk Heritage |
| OD-CC-IX | Prachina Odia Pothi O Shilalipi (Ancient Odia Manuscripts & Inscriptions) | Core | 6 | Palm-leaf Manuscripts: History and Significance, Types of Odia Scripts (Oriya-Kalinga, Utkali), Deciphering Inscriptions and Copper Plates, Historical and Cultural Information from Inscriptions, Preservation Techniques of Manuscripts, Major Manuscript Collections |
| OD-CC-X | Bharatiya Sahitya (Indian Literature) | Core | 6 | Introduction to Indian Literary Traditions, Major Literary Forms across India, Impact of Sanskrit and Regional Languages, Prominent Indian Authors and Movements, Themes of Nationalism and Identity, Literature in Translation |
| OD-SEC-II | Srujanatmaka Lekhana (Creative Writing) | Skill Enhancement Course | 4 | Elements of Creative Writing, Writing Short Stories and Poetry, Script Writing for Radio/TV, Techniques of Character Development, Dialogue Writing, Editing and Revision |
| GE-IV | Generic Elective - IV | Generic Elective | 6 | Chosen from another discipline (e.g., History, Political Science, Economics), Application of theoretical knowledge, Policy implications, Global and local contexts |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| OD-CC-XI | Bhakti Sahitya (Bhakti Literature) | Core | 6 | Concept of Bhakti Movement in India, Jayadeva and Geeta Govinda, Panchasakha and their Contribution, Chaitanya Cult in Odisha, Radha Krishna Bhakti, Philosophical Aspects of Bhakti Literature |
| OD-CC-XII | Prabandha O Ramya Rachana (Essays & Humorous Writings) | Core | 6 | Evolution of Odia Essay, Types of Essays: Descriptive, Narrative, Expository, Prominent Essayists, Humorous Writing in Odia, Satire and Wit, Journalistic Writing Style |
| OD-DSE-I | Odia Bhasha Bigyan (Odia Linguistics) | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Introduction to Linguistics, Phonetics and Phonology of Odia, Morphology and Syntax of Odia, Semantics and Pragmatics, Sociolinguistics of Odia, Applied Linguistics |
| OD-DSE-II | Anubada Sahitya (Translation Literature) | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Theories and Principles of Translation, Types of Translation: Literary, Technical, Challenges in Translation, Translation from English to Odia and Vice-versa, Role of Translation in Cultural Exchange, Impact of Translation on Odia Literature |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| OD-CC-XIII | Sahitya Srusti O Samalochana (Literary Creation & Criticism) | Core | 6 | Process of Literary Creation, Writer''''s Intent and Reader''''s Response, Role of Criticism in Literature, Contemporary Critical Approaches, Ethics in Literary Criticism, Practice of Writing Critical Essays |
| OD-CC-XIV | Odia Bhasika Prusthabhumi O Vyakaran (Linguistic Background of Odia & Grammar) | Core | 6 | Historical Development of Odia Grammar, Parts of Speech in Odia, Sentence Structure and Syntax, Noun, Pronoun, Adjective, Verb Conjugation, Tense, Aspect, Modality, Punctuation and Spelling Rules |
| OD-DSE-III | Kabyatattwa (Poetics) | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Definition and Scope of Poetics, Rasa Theory and its Application, Dhvani Theory, Alankara and Riti School, Indian Poetics vs. Western Poetics, Aesthetics in Odia Poetry |
| OD-DSE-IV | Odia Chhabi O Chalachitra (Odia Art & Cinema) | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | History of Odia Cinema, Key Film Directors and their Works, Art Movements in Odisha, Pattachitra and Traditional Art Forms, Folk Art and Craft, Documentary and Short Film Making |




