Eminent Odia writer Jitendra Narayan Dash, known as Dash Benhur, is set to receive the prestigious ‘Nabagunjara Samman’ for 2023 in recognition of his significant contributions to literature and culture. This esteemed award will be bestowed upon him at an event scheduled for October 14 in Bhubaneswar, as announced by Nabagunjara Sanskruti Manch, the organization responsible for presenting the award. Dash Benhur will be honored with a citation, a cash prize, and a shawl. Dash Benhur is a highly respected figure in Odisha, particularly known for his extensive work in the realm of children’s literature in the Odia language. He boasts an impressive portfolio of more than 100 books, including numerous collections of short stories. Additionally, he is recognized as a Gandhian scholar, and his contributions have earned him various accolades, including the central Sahitya Akademi, Odisha Sahitya Akademi, and Odisha Bigyan Academy Awards. Having dedicated five decades to literature and culture, Dash Benhur served as the Principal of Samanta Chandrasekhar (Autonomous) College in Puri before retiring. He also took on the role of editing a popular tabloid for children, further solidifying his influence in the literary and educational spheres.