At the 14th Odisha Literary Festival, held on September 5, 2026, author and historian Anirudh Kanisetti discussed the significant role of queens in Odisha's medieval diplomatic relations during a session moderated by journalist Kaveree Bamzai. Kanisetti highlighted how queens like Prithvi Mahadevi were pivotal in maintaining political stability and fostering diplomatic connections. He noted that these queens often held real power, serving as patrons of art and religion while ensuring dynastic continuity.
Read More
Kanisetti also referred to Ratnagiri as a crucial site for early tantric development, emphasizing its importance to Odisha's religious heritage. He mentioned that the Buddhist monastery there was supported by multiple medieval dynasties, including the Bhaumakaras, and underscored Odisha's role in shaping religious ideas.
Discussing the architectural significance of the Lingaraj temple, he observed that its design does not conform to either North or South Indian styles, reflecting Odisha's position as a cultural crossroads. Kanisetti remarked, "In medieval India, the mark of a great conqueror, which is to say the mark of a great politician, is to build a great temple," citing the renowned Sun Temple at Konark as an example.
He illustrated his points with images of sculptures from the temple, including one depicting King Narasimhadeva I triumphing over the Bengal Sultanate. Kanisetti described a sculpture showing the king worshipping two deities, suggesting it signifies a shift in how power was manifested, blending political authority with religious devotion.
Despite the historical insights shared, he cautioned against accepting historical narratives without scrutiny, emphasizing that archaeological evidence does not always align with royal inscriptions. Kanisetti asserted that the complexities of history are often nuanced, messy, and require a deeper understanding.