Odisha India

Odisha: The Soul of Incredible India

Wikipedia Link: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Odisha

Wikipedia Excerpt: "Odisha (/oʊˈdɪʃə/ (listen) or /əˈdɪʃə/; Oriya: ଓଡ଼ିଶା [oːɽiʃaː] (listen)), formerly Orissa, is an Indian state located in Eastern India.¹ It is the 8th largest state by area, and the 11th largest by population. The state has² a coastline of 485 kilometres (301 mi) along the Bay of Bengal. It is surrounded by the states of West Bengal to the northeast, Jharkhand to the north, Chhattisgarh to the west and³ Andhra Pradesh to the⁴ south. Odisha is the modern name of the ancient kingdom of Kalinga, which was invaded by Emperor Ashoka in 261 BCE."

History

Odisha boasts a rich and ancient history, with evidence of human settlement dating back to the Lower Paleolithic era. The region was known as Kalinga in ancient times and played a significant role in Indian history. The Mauryan Emperor Ashoka's conquest of Kalinga in 261 BCE, marked by immense bloodshed, led to his conversion to Buddhism. In subsequent centuries, Odisha was ruled by various dynasties, including the Chedis, the Satavahanas, and the Guptas. The Eastern Ganga dynasty, which ruled from the 11th to the 15th centuries, oversaw a golden age of art and architecture, marked by the construction of magnificent temples like the Konark Sun Temple and the Jagannath Temple in Puri. The Gajapati dynasty followed, and later, the region came under Mughal and Maratha influence before being annexed by the British in the 19th century. Odisha played a notable role in India's independence movement. After independence, Odisha became a separate state on April 1, 1936.

Culture

Odisha's culture is a vibrant tapestry of traditions, art forms, music, and dance. Odissi, one of the six classical dances of India, originated in Odisha and is characterized by its graceful movements and expressive storytelling. Folk dances like Chhau, Gotipua, and Sambalpuri dance are also popular. Music plays an integral role in Odia culture, with traditional folk songs and classical Odissi music being cherished. Numerous festivals are celebrated throughout the year, with Rath Yatra in Puri being the most famous, drawing millions of devotees. Durga Puja, Diwali, and Gamha Purnima are also celebrated with great enthusiasm. The Odia language, an Indo-Aryan language, is spoken by the majority of the state's population.

Art and Architecture

Odisha is renowned for its exquisite art and architecture, particularly its temple architecture.¹⁴ The Kalinga style of architecture flourished here, characterized by its unique "rekha deula" (curvilinear spire), "pidha deula" (pyramidal roof), and "nata mandira" (dance hall) structures. The Sun Temple at Konark, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a masterpiece of this style.¹⁵ The Jagannath Temple in Puri and the Lingaraj Temple in Bhubaneswar are other prominent examples of Kalinga architecture.¹⁶ Traditional Odia art forms include Pattachitra (cloth painting), palm leaf engraving, silver filigree work (Tarakasi), and stone carving. Handicrafts made from wood, brass, and terracotta are also significant.

Major Cities

Bhubaneswar: The capital city of Odisha, known as the "Temple City" for its numerous ancient temples.¹⁷ As per the 2011 census, its population was around 837,737.
Cuttack: One of the oldest cities in Odisha and its former capital, located at the confluence of the Mahanadi and Kathajodi rivers.¹⁸ Its population was approximately 606,007 in 2011.
Rourkela: A major industrial city with a significant steel plant.¹⁹ Its population was around 273,217 in 2011.
Berhampur: A commercial hub in southern Odisha.²⁰ Its population was approximately 355,823 in 2011.
Sambalpur: A major city in western Odisha, known for its textile industry and the Hirakud Dam.²¹ Its population was around 335,761 in 2011.
Puri: A coastal city famous for the Jagannath Temple and its beaches.²² Its population was approximately 201,026 in 2011.

Temples and Palaces

Odisha is often referred to as the "Land of Temples" due to its vast number of ancient shrines.²³ Some of the most significant temples include:

Jagannath Temple, Puri: A revered Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Jagannath and one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites.²⁴
Sun Temple, Konark: A 13th-century architectural marvel dedicated to the Sun God, designed as a colossal chariot.²⁵
Lingaraj Temple, Bhubaneswar: An 11th-century temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, representing the epitome of Kalinga architecture.²⁶
Mukteswar Temple, Bhubaneswar: Known for its exquisite carvings and the iconic Torana (archway).²⁷
Rajarani Temple, Bhubaneswar: Famous for its graceful sculptures of women.

Historically, Odisha had royal kingdoms, and remnants of palaces or royal residences can still be found, although many are in ruins or have been converted.²⁸ Some notable examples include:

Baripada Palace: The former residence of the Bhanja rulers.
Kendrapara Palace: The former seat of the Kendrapara royal family.
Paralakhemundi Palace: The historic residence of the Gajapati rulers of Parlakhemundi.²⁹

These palaces, though not as grand as those in some other parts of India, hold historical and architectural significance.

Geography

Odisha is situated on the eastern coast of India, bordering the Bay of Bengal.³⁰ It is characterized by diverse geographical features, including a coastline of about 485 kilometers, fertile plains, rolling hills, and dense forests.³¹ The Eastern Ghats run through the state. The Mahanadi is the largest river in Odisha, and other major rivers include the Brahmani, Baitarani, Subarnarekha, and Rushikulya.³² The Chilika Lake, a brackish water lagoon, is the largest coastal lagoon in India and a significant Ramsar site.³³ The climate is tropical, with hot summers, a wet monsoon season, and mild winters.³⁴

People and Ethnicity

According to the 2011 Census, the population of Odisha is 41,974,218.³⁵ The state has a diverse ethnic composition. The majority of the population are Indo-Aryan speakers, with Odia being the primary language.³⁶ There is also a significant tribal population, comprising various ethnic groups who speak Austro-Asiatic and Dravidian languages.³⁷ Some of the major tribal groups include the Kandha, Gond, Santhal, Ho, Oraon, and Munda.³⁸ These tribal communities have their own distinct cultures, languages, and traditions.³⁹

Cuisine

Odia cuisine is known for its subtle flavors and the use of locally available ingredients.⁴⁰ Rice is the staple grain.⁴¹ Seafood is popular in the coastal regions, while freshwater fish is consumed inland.⁴² Lentils (dal), vegetables, and curries form an integral part of the daily diet. Some traditional Odia dishes include:

Chhena Poda: A baked cheese dessert, considered a signature dish of Odisha.⁴³
Rasagola: A popular Indian sweet made of cheese curds and soaked in sugar syrup, with origins in Odisha.
Dalma: A lentil and vegetable stew.⁴⁴
Machha Besara: Fish cooked in mustard paste.⁴⁵
Santula: A mixed vegetable curry.⁴⁶
Pakhala Bhata: Fermented rice water, often consumed during the summer.⁴⁷

Healthcare

The healthcare infrastructure in Odisha is a mix of government-run and private hospitals, primary health centers, and community health centers.⁴⁸ The state government is working to improve healthcare access and quality, especially in rural and tribal areas.⁴⁹ Schemes like the Biju Swasthya Kalyan Yojana aim to provide universal healthcare coverage.⁵⁰ Major government hospitals are located in cities like Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, and Berhampur, including AIIMS Bhubaneswar and SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack.⁵¹ However, challenges remain in terms of infrastructure, availability of specialists, and healthcare access in remote regions.⁵²

Religions

Hinduism is the predominant religion in Odisha, with a vast majority of the population identifying as Hindu.⁵³ Lord Jagannath is the central deity of Odisha, and the Jagannath cult is deeply ingrained in the state's culture and traditions.⁵⁴ Other major Hindu deities are also worshipped. There are smaller populations of Muslims, Christians, Sikhs, Buddhists, and Jains in the state. Tribal communities often have their own indigenous religious beliefs and practices.

Tourism

Odisha offers a diverse range of tourist attractions, including ancient temples, pristine beaches, wildlife sanctuaries, and natural landscapes.⁵⁵ Key tourist destinations include:

Puri: Famous for the Jagannath Temple and its golden beaches.⁵⁶
Konark: Home to the magnificent Sun Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.⁵⁷
Bhubaneswar: The "Temple City" with numerous historical temples.⁵⁸
Chilika Lake: Asia's largest brackish water lagoon, known for its biodiversity and migratory birds.⁵⁹
Simlipal National Park: A major wildlife sanctuary and tiger reserve.⁶⁰
Bhitarkanika National Park: Known for its mangrove forests, saltwater crocodiles, and Olive Ridley sea turtle nesting sites.⁶¹
Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves: Ancient rock-cut caves with Jain inscriptions.⁶²

Politics and Government

Odisha has a parliamentary system of government. The Governor is the constitutional head of the state, appointed by the President of India.⁶³ The Chief Minister is the head of the elected government and leads the Council of Ministers. The state has a unicameral legislature, the Odisha Legislative Assembly.⁶⁴ Odisha sends 21 members to the Lok Sabha (lower house of the Indian Parliament) and 10 members to the Rajya Sabha (upper house). The political landscape has been largely dominated by regional parties in recent decades.

Transportation

Transportation in Odisha relies on a network of roads, railways, and airways.⁶⁵

Roads

Roads are the most extensive mode of transport within Odisha, connecting major cities, towns, and villages. National Highways and state highways crisscross the state. The road network is continuously being developed and upgraded.

Airports

Odisha has several airports, including:

Biju Patnaik International Airport, Bhubaneswar (BBI): The primary international airport, connecting Odisha to major cities in India and some international destinations.⁶⁶
Jharsuguda Airport (JRG): Also known as Veer Surendra Sai Airport, it provides domestic connectivity.⁶⁷
Rourkela Airport (RRK): Primarily serves domestic flights.⁶⁸
Jeypore Airport (PYB): A domestic airport with limited operations.

Rail Services

Odisha has a well-developed railway network, connecting major industrial and urban centers. The East Coast Railway zone has its headquarters in Bhubaneswar.⁶⁹ Important railway junctions include Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, Rourkela, Sambalpur, and Berhampur.

Major Train Stations

Some of the major train stations in Odisha include:

Bhubaneswar Railway Station (BBS)
Cuttack Railway Station (CTC)
Rourkela Junction (ROU)
Sambalpur Junction (SBP)
Berhampur Railway Station (BAM)
Puri Railway Station (PURI)

Bridges

Given the presence of several rivers, bridges are crucial for connectivity in Odisha. Major bridges span the Mahanadi, Brahmani, Baitarani, and other rivers, facilitating transportation across the state.⁷⁰ Notable bridges include major road and rail bridges on the Mahanadi River.⁷¹

Pilgrimages

Odisha is a significant pilgrimage destination, primarily for Hindus.⁷² The most important pilgrimage sites include:

Puri: Home to the Jagannath Temple and the annual Rath Yatra.⁷³
Bhubaneswar: Known as the "Temple City," it has numerous ancient Shiva temples.⁷⁴
Konark: While famous for the Sun Temple, it also holds religious significance.⁷⁵
Jajpur: An ancient site with the Biraja Temple, dedicated to Goddess Durga.⁷⁶
Mahendragiri: A mountain with ancient temples and mythological significance.⁷⁷

Healthcare

(Information already covered in the Healthcare section above)

IT Industry

The IT industry in Odisha is growing, with Bhubaneswar emerging as a significant IT hub in eastern India.⁷⁸ The state government has been actively promoting the sector through policies and infrastructure development.⁷⁹ Major IT companies have established a presence in Bhubaneswar.⁸⁰ The Info Valley and other IT parks provide infrastructure for IT and IT-enabled services. The focus is on attracting investments, creating employment, and fostering innovation in the IT sector.⁸¹

Hospitals

(Information already covered in the Healthcare section above)

Colleges and Universities

Odisha has a well-established higher education system with numerous colleges and universities offering a wide range of programs.⁸² Some prominent institutions include:

Utkal University, Bhubaneswar: One of the oldest universities in the state.⁸³
Berhampur University, Berhampur.⁸⁴
Sambalpur University, Sambalpur.⁸⁵
Fakir Mohan University, Balasore.⁸⁶
Ravenshaw University, Cuttack.
Indian Institute of Technology Bhubaneswar (IIT Bhubaneswar).⁸⁷
National Institute of Technology Rourkela (NIT Rourkela).⁸⁸
All India Institute of Medical Sciences Bhubaneswar (AIIMS Bhubaneswar).⁸⁹
KIIT University, Bhubaneswar (Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology).⁹⁰
SOA University, Bhubaneswar (Siksha 'O' Anusandhan).⁹¹

Education System

The education system in Odisha follows the 10+2+3 pattern. School education is overseen by the Board of Secondary Education, Odisha (BSE) and the Council of Higher Secondary Education, Odisha (CHSE). The state has a large number of government and private schools.⁹² Efforts are ongoing to improve literacy rates and the quality of education across the state.⁹³

Dams

Odisha has several major dams, primarily for irrigation and hydroelectric power generation.⁹⁴ Some notable dams include:

Hirakud Dam: Built across the Mahanadi River, one of the longest earthen dams in the world.⁹⁵
Indravati Dam: A major multipurpose project in western Odisha.⁹⁶
Rengali Dam: Built across the Brahmani River.⁹⁷
Upper Kolab Dam: A hydroelectric project in Koraput district.⁹⁸

Fishing

Fishing is an important economic activity in Odisha, given its long coastline, rivers, and lakes.⁹⁹ Both marine and inland fishing are practiced. Chilika Lake is a significant source of fish and prawns.¹⁰⁰ The state government supports the fishing industry through various schemes and infrastructure development.¹⁰¹

Cattle Farming

Cattle farming is an integral part of the rural economy in Odisha, primarily for milk production and agricultural purposes.¹⁰² Indigenous breeds of cattle are common. The state government promotes animal husbandry through various programs.¹⁰³

Agriculture

Agriculture is the backbone of Odisha's economy, employing a significant portion of the population.¹⁰⁴ Rice is the principal crop, followed by pulses, oilseeds, jute, sugarcane, and vegetables. The state is also a major producer of cashew and turmeric.¹⁰⁵ Irrigation projects, including dams and canals, play a crucial role in supporting agriculture.¹⁰⁶

Industries

Odisha has a diverse industrial sector, with significant mineral resources like coal, iron ore, bauxite, and chromite.¹⁰⁷ Major industries include:

Steel: Rourkela Steel Plant is a major integrated steel plant.¹⁰⁸
Aluminum: Nalco (National Aluminium Company Limited) has major operations in Odisha.¹⁰⁹
Power: Thermal and hydroelectric power generation are significant.
Fertilizers: Plants producing fertilizers are located in the state.¹¹⁰
Petrochemicals: Paradip has a major oil refinery and petrochemical complex.¹¹¹

Food Industry

The food processing industry in Odisha is growing, focusing on processing rice, pulses, oilseeds, fruits, vegetables, and seafood.¹¹² There is potential for further development in this sector.

Milk Industry

The milk industry in Odisha is developing, with both organized and unorganized sectors. Cooperatives and private dairies are involved in milk collection, processing, and distribution. The state government supports dairy farming through various schemes.

Automobile Industry

Odisha has a growing presence in the automobile sector, primarily in auto component manufacturing.¹¹⁵ Some major automobile companies have set up manufacturing units or have a significant presence in the state.

Textile Industry

The textile industry in Odisha includes both traditional handloom weaving and modern mills. The state is known for its exquisite handloom sarees like Sambalpuri, Ikat, and Bomkai, which are famous for their unique designs and craftsmanship.¹¹⁸ The government supports the handloom sector and promotes textile manufacturing.¹¹⁹