It is one of the eastern coastal states of India, known as Orissa, previously. Its rich ancient heritage, vibrant culture, and natural beauty abound, with gateways in the east led by the temples of Puri and Konark, beaches along its breadth and length, and a wide variety of wild life. This treasure trove of Indian heritage has an excellent blend of art, history, and tradition. Bhubaneswar-the capital city of the state-is referred to as the “City of Temples.”
1. Georgraphy
Location: Bay of Bengal in East India.
Area: 155,707 km² (The state is ranked eighth in the large list of Indian states).
Capital: Bhubaneswar.
Boardering States and Union Territories;
West Bengal: North Eastern
Jharkhand: Northern
Chhattisgarh: West
Andhra Pradesh: Southern
Bay of Bengal: Eastern
Rivers: Mahanadi, Brahmani, Baitarani, Subarnarekha, Rushikulya
Topography: Coastal plains, Eastern Ghats, plateaus and river valleys
Climate: Tropical monsoon with well-defined summer, monsoon and winter season .
2. Districts of Odisha
There are 30 districts in Odisha. They are divided into three revenue divisions; Central, Northern and Southern. Important districts are :
- Angul
- Balangir
- Balasore
- Bargarh
- Bhadrak
- Boudh
- Cuttack
- Deogarh
- Dhenkanal
- Gajapati
- Ganjam
- Jagatsinghpur
- Jajpur
- Jharsuguda
- Kalahandi
- Kandhamal
- Kendrapara
- Kendujhar (Keonjhar)
- Khordha
- Koraput
- Malkangiri
- Mayurbhanj
- Nabarangpur
- Nayagarh
- Nuapada
- Puri
- Rayagada
- Sambalpur
- Subarnapur
- Sundargarh
3. Culture and Heritage
Languages: Odia is the official language, besides English and regional tribal dialects.
Traditional Art and Dance Forms:
Odissi Dance: It is one of the eight classical dance forms of India and originated from Odisha.
Chhau Dance: It is a semi-classical dance with martial influences and originated in Odisha.
Pattachitra: This painting technique is popularly done on cloth and is a scroll painting.
Some popular temples in Odisha:
Jagannath Temple (Puri): It is part of the Char Dham pilgrimage.
Sun Temple, Konark: It is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Lingaraja Temple, Bhubaneswar: It is one among the masterpieces of Kalinga architecture.
Festivals:
Rath Yatra: The celebration of chariot festival with Lord Jagannath is world-famous.
Durga Puja: Highly rejoice across the state.
Chhau Festival: Display of tribal dance and culture.
Cuisine: Pakhala Bhata (fermented rice), Dalma, Santula, Chhena Poda and Rasgulla are all said to have originated in Odisha.
4. Economy
Agriculture: Mainstay; paddy, pulses, coconut, and sugarcane are some of the crops.
Minerals: It is one of the richest states in India in terms of natural resources; India produces the highest number of iron ore, coal, bauxite, and chromite from Odisha.
Steel, aluminum, textile, and handloom industries.
Tourism: A high contributor, with attractions such as Puri, Konark, Chilika Lake, and Bhitarkanika Wildlife Sanctuary.
5. Natural Wonders
Chilika Lake: Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon and a Ramsar site.
Simlipal National Park: A tiger reserve and biodiversity hotspot.
Bhitarkanika Mangroves: A place for saltwater crocodiles and rare flora.
Satkosia Gorge: An attractive river gorge with wild life.
Beaches: Puri, Chandipur (with its receding tide phenomenon), Gopalpur, and Ramchandi.
6. Historic Significance
Kalinga War (261 BCE): It is the momentous Indian historical event that compelled Emperor Ashoka towards Buddhism.
Maritime Heritage: Odisha even had old trading ties with Southeast Asia. The evidence can be found in the Bali Jatra Festival.
Architectural Wonder: The temples of Odisha, which are designed under the style of Kalinga architecture, appear to express the glorious past of Odisha.
7. Flora and Fauna
Flora: Teak, Sal, Bamboo, Mangroves and medicinal plants.
Fauna:
Animals: Bengal Tiger, Elephant, Saltwater Crocodile, and Indian pangolin.
Birds: Spot-billed pelicans, flamingos, and Irrawaddy dolphins in Chilika Lake.
Protected Areas:
Nandankanan Zoological Park.
Simlipal Tiger Reserve.
Bhitarkanika National Park.
8. Miscellaneous Facts
State Symbols:
Animal: Sambar deer.
Bird: Indian roller.
Flower: Ashoka flower.
Tree: Banyan.
Nickname: Utkal (ancient name), referred to in the national anthem.
UNESCO Sites: Konark Sun Temple and Chilika Lake (Ramsar Site).
Connectivity: Well-connected via Biju Patnaik International Airport (Bhubaneswar), railways, and ports like Paradip.
Odisha is a unique mix of tradition and modernity. Her contributions toward history, culture, and natural beauty push her way in the lines of importance and attraction in India. From Rath Yatra to serene beaches and wildlife sanctuaries, Odisha has something in it for everyone.
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