Gourishankar Ray Biography 
Gourishankar Ray was a prominent figure from Orissa, associated with Odia literature and social work, who lived during 13 July 1838 - 7 March 1917. Known to be a savour of Odia language, he was a literary figure of second half of 19th century. For the protection and preservation of the Odia language, from the grip of Bengal language and other factors, he played a tireless role. He led a movement named, Save Oriya Movement during the late 19th century, for which he is remembered most. Father of the co-operative movements in Odisha, he is also credited to starting printing & publishing crafts in Orissa, to save Odia language and culture.
Gourishankar Ray was born on 13 July 1838 in Dixitpada of Asureswar, Cuttack. The place is now a part of Odisha state. His primary school education was completed from his village. Later he studied in Cuttack school, now known as Ravenshaw Collegiate School. On a Juniorship Scholarship, he moved to Hoogly for College Education. After studies he worked as a teacher at Balasore. Radhanath Ray, Baikuntha Nath Dey and MadhuSudan Das were among his prominent students. In 1859, he returned to Cuttack and joined the Commissioner's Office where he worked as Money Order Agent. His public life started only after that.
He founded Youngmen's Association and also started Cuttack Printing Co. on a Co-operative basis. He was a founding member of Cuttack Printing Co. He got more involved with social life and founded Purana Prakashika Company in 1867, which published in many Hindu mythology works in Odia, promoting the language. The following year, he led , Save Oriya Movement to protect and preserve Odia language. He later founded Utkal Ullasini Sabha, Orissa Sabha and many more.
Published: July 23, 2018
Updated: July 23, 2018
