A Note from the Founder
Oriental Academy of Arts & Letters was established with a simple yet enduring vision—to preserve, promote and celebrate the timeless heritage of literature, art, culture and scholarly research while making knowledge accessible to readers, researchers and future generations.
Dear Readers, Scholars & Friends,
Mr. Rajendra Narayan Dash, the founding Chairman of Oriental Academy of Arts & Letters, is an eminent author, critic and distinguished socio-cultural activist. He joined the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) in 1962 and served the Government of Bihar during some of its most challenging years. During his illustrious administrative career, he held several prestigious positions, including District Magistrate of Gaya and Patna, Commissioner of Patna Division, Home Secretary and Finance Secretary, before retiring in 1996 in the rank of Secretary to the Government of India / Chief Secretary.
Academic Excellence
From his student days, Mr. Dash earned recognition for his exceptional scholarship. He graduated with distinction and received a Gold Medal in his Master's degree. An avid reader throughout his life, he has built an extraordinary personal library of more than 50,000 books covering literature, cinema, fine arts, performing arts, history, philosophy and many other disciplines.
Author & Scholar
He is the author of the acclaimed work Understanding the Art of Cinema, a comprehensive study on the art and science of filmmaking. The book has received appreciation from students, teachers, researchers and film enthusiasts across India.
Besides authoring books, he has contributed numerous articles on cinema, literature and social issues in leading newspapers and magazines.
Contribution to Cinema & Culture
Widely regarded as an authority on cinematic arts, Mr. Dash has played a pioneering role in promoting film appreciation in Bihar. He has chaired several government committees related to cinema and has been actively involved with the Bihar State Film Development Corporation, film festivals, exhibitions and educational workshops.
His guidance has inspired filmmakers, artists, journalists, teachers and students while significantly contributing to the development of cinema studies in the state.
Leadership in Educational & Cultural Institutions
Throughout his career, he has served as Chairman, President, Patron, Trustee, Advisor and Governing Body Member of numerous educational, literary and cultural institutions.
He played an instrumental role in establishing and nurturing organizations such as Bihar Art Theatre, The Cine Society, Patna Book Fair, Indira Gandhi Planetarium, Film Appreciation Centre, Rang Mati and several other institutions dedicated to art, literature and public education.
Social Commitment
Beyond literature and culture, Mr. Dash has consistently championed causes related to environmental protection, consumer rights, disaster management, human rights, public administration and education.
Through seminars, conferences, workshops and public lectures in India and abroad, he has inspired countless students, administrators and researchers. His pioneering environmental campaign, Save Earth, became one of the earliest public awareness movements in the country.
Legacy
Mr. Rajendra Narayan Dash continues to be regarded as one of the most respected socio-cultural leaders in the fields of literature, arts, education and public service. His lifelong dedication to knowledge, scholarship and cultural preservation remains the guiding inspiration behind the mission of Oriental Academy of Arts & Letters.
Mr. Rajendra Narayan Dash
Founder
Oriental Academy of Arts & Letters
Preserve Knowledge
Publishing quality books, journals and research materials that safeguard literary and cultural heritage.
Build Community
Bringing together scholars, educators, artists and researchers to foster collaboration and intellectual growth.
Inspire Future
Encouraging lifelong learning, creativity and innovation for future generations through academic excellence.