Meet Basanta Kumari Samanta: Odisha's First Woman Painter Inspiring Generations at 83 | OTV

This media report by OTV profiles Basanta Kumari Samanta, celebrated as Odisha’s first female painter. At 83 years of age, she continues to serve as an enduring icon within the realm of Indian art and literature. The feature honors her historic milestone in 1957, when she became the first female student to enroll in the Khallikote Government College of Arts & Crafts, successfully completing her diploma in Fine Arts in 1961. Beyond her foundational accomplishments in painting, Basanta Kumari is an accomplished poet who has devoted decades to fostering artistic talent across Odisha. Her professional teaching career, which began in 1967, allowed her to mentor generations of students while sustaining her own dual pursuits in visual art and poetry. The report underscores her lifelong dedication to her craft, documenting how her contributions continue to enrich Odisha’s cultural landscape and inspire young artists.