Odisha Day (Utkala Dibasa)
Odisha Day, or Utkal Divas, is celebrated every year on April 1st with pride and passion to honor the formation of Odisha as an independent state in 1936.
This day is more than just a date on the calendar. It is a powerful reminder of the resilience and determination of the Odia people. Known as Odisha Foundation Day and Vishuva Milan, it celebrates the region’s rich cultural tapestry, vibrant history, and the hard-fought journey toward statehood.
For the Odia community, it’s a heartfelt tribute to their roots, their identity, and the legacy that continues to inspire generations.
History of Odisha Day or Utkal Divas
Odisha’s story goes back to ancient times when it was a part of the mighty Kalinga Empire, known for its stunning art, architecture, and sculptures. In 261 BC, the great Kalinga War changed history forever. Ashoka, the powerful king of Magadha, conquered Kalinga in this battle.
Years later, King Kharavela rose to power. He brought back Kalinga’s lost glory, making it a vibrant cultural and political center once again. However, history took another turn in 1576 when Odisha fell under Mughal rule, followed by the British. The British divided the region into different provinces, merging Odisha with Bengal, Bihar, and parts of present-day West Bengal under the Bengal Presidency.
The dream of a separate state began to grow stronger in the late 19th century. Leaders like Utkala Gouraba Madhusudan Das, Gopabandhu Das, and Fakir Mohan Senapati led the movement, determined to give Odisha its own identity based on its unique language and culture. After years of struggle and relentless efforts, that dream finally came true.
On April 1, 1936, Odisha was officially declared a separate province. Sir John Hubbak became its first governor.
Is it Odisha or Orissa
Yes, this is a major confusion among people believe it or not! The state was initially named Orissa, but in 2011, it was officially renamed Odisha, reclaiming its original identity.
Utkal Divas Celebration and Activities
- Homes, government buildings, and public spaces are adorned with flags, flowers, and banners in the state’s colors.
- Traditional art and dance forms take center stage during Odisha Day celebrations. Classical Odissi dance performances, along with folk dances like Dalkhai and Sambalpuri, captivate audiences with their beauty and energy. Poetry recitals and traditional music are also held on this day.
- Food festivals organized across the state offer a taste of Odisha’s culinary diversity. Popular delicacies like Pakhala (fermented rice), Dahibara Aloo dum, and Chenna Poda (a traditional baked sweet) are enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.
- Official functions are held where dignitaries and leaders deliver speeches, paying homage to the leaders who fought for Odisha’s independence. They reflect on the significance of the day and inspire the younger generation to take pride in their Odia roots.
5 Interesting Facts about Odisha You Should Know
- The Jagannath Temple in Puri, Odisha has one of the world’s largest temple kitchen (Rosaghara). Every day, over 400 cooks prepare food for more than 10,000 people using a unique cooking technique where 7 pots are stacked, and the topmost one gets cooked first!
- Once believed to be built inside the sea, the Konark Sun Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing Odisha’s exceptional craftsmanship and creativity in stone.
- Odisha is the birthplace of Odissi, one of the eight classical dance forms of India, known for its grace and fluidity.
- Kendu leaves, commonly grown in Odisha, play a vital role in the state’s economy as they are used to make bidis (Indian cigarettes).
- The iconic sweet dish Rasgulla is said to have originated in Odisha.
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