PIN CODE-757026
- Prasanna Kumar Pattanayak
- Jul 4, 2020
- 3 min read
Village-Khuntapal
Tehsil-Badasahi,
Dist- Mayurbhanj, Odisha
Latitude- 21.7358
Longitude- 86.7125
It is my village, a beautiful place in the bank of the river Budhabalanga. I know with the passage of time there has been a lot of development in the form of electricity supply, motorable roads, river bridges, school etc. But I still love to have the visual images of my village that was engraved in my mind in my childhood.
My great grandfather migrated to Khuntapal, maybe towards the end of the 19th century from a neighbouring district. They were in farming, having a lot of land to cultivate. My gosabapa (Grandfather) was good in studies but left his education to help his father and brother in farming activities. My father was the first graduate from our village, and then nobody looked back. He made it sure all his brothers and family members are getting the right education. Popularly known as "Pattanayaks" of Khuntapal, we are known for our strong educational roots.
My first memory of my village was our visit during the holidays from my father's place of posting. Travel by bullock cart from nearest town Betanati through the woods, and trying to take control of the cart under the guidance of the operator. Being an extended family, it was a big family with more than 50 members. The love and warmth we used get on arrival were stupendous. Depending upon the age group, we had our own groups amongst the brothers and sisters. Once we reached our home, then we were like free birds. No parental control, moving in the villages, going to the kheta, and playing in the river and sometimes venturing into the patha (a fertile land engulfed by the river) to steal guava, under the leadership of one of my sister. And the best part was having a cycle ride to the nearest small town to have some typical food - my favourite was mudhi( puffed rice) and mutton curry in thunga ( a conical bowl made of teak leaves) or visiting the local markets to watch the cockfighting and on some festive seasons watching Jatras throughout the night and having teas and snacks.

At home there would be special items prepared for us, maybe varieties of mushrooms available locally, or fresh fish or mutton curry, or vegetables mixed with mustard paste and roasted in leaf in wooden charcoal. Distributing the food among so many members was an art, trying to make sure of equal distribution. The bed prepared on the floor with straw covered by a carpet was very comfortable. You had the option of sleeping alone in khatias, but the dark and scary night used to compel us to sleep in a group. The stay was more enjoyable during family functions like marriages. I remember on some occasions there was a difference of opinion and arguments among the seniors, but it never had any impact on the young siblings. The best part was the respect and importance given to the daughters-in-law, addressed as "Bohu Maa". My grandfather was very caring and would make sure my mother and aunties were taken care of.
I know my village may not be perfectly mapped in the atlas, but it does not matter. Let it be not touched by modern lifestyle. The desire for a so-called successful career and a materialistic lifestyle and the never-ending quest to achieve more has kept away me from my village, but still, it has the beautiful memories of happiness, family bonding, and simple life. My father and uncles were born there and achieved all success, but never forgot their roots. Still, I feel the echo of the "kirtan" used to be sung by my grandfather and tasty food made by my grandmother. The family home surrounded by trees was much comfortable than the air-conditioned houses. Being identified as a member of the Pattanayaks of Khuntapal is more satisfying than as a senior insurance professional.
This is dedicated to my youngest uncle who left us for heavenly abode on 26 June,20. A very popular educationist and a fine human being, who taught us how not to forget your roots, even if you are at the zenith of success.
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