Historic Odisha

Odisha, formerly known as Orissa, is a state in eastern India with a rich historical heritage dating back millennia. Here are some key aspects of historic Odisha:

1. Ancient Period: Odisha’s history dates back to ancient times with significant mentions in texts like the Mahabharata and the Ashoka inscriptions. It was a part of Kalinga, known for its maritime trade and cultural exchanges with Southeast Asia.
2. Kalinga Empire: Around the 4th century BCE, Kalinga emerged as a powerful kingdom under King Kharavela, known for his Hathigumpha inscription in Udayagiri caves near Bhubaneswar. The inscription details his military exploits and contributions to Jainism.
3. Ganga Dynasty: From the 5th to 12th centuries CE, the Ganga dynasty ruled Odisha, leaving behind notable temples like the Parasurameswara Temple in Bhubaneswar and the Jagannath Temple in Puri.
4. Gajapati Kingdom: The Gajapati dynasty ruled from the 14th to 16th centuries, known for their patronage of art, architecture, and literature. The Konark Sun Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, was built during this period.
5. Colonial Era: Odisha came under British rule in the 19th century after the defeat of the Marathas. It was initially a part of the Bengal Presidency and later became a separate province in 1936.
6. Post-Independence: After India gained independence in 1947, Odisha became a state in 1950. It has since developed into a culturally vibrant state known for its festivals (like Rath Yatra in Puri), handicrafts (Pattachitra, stone carvings), and dance forms (Odissi).
7. Cultural Heritage: Odisha has a rich cultural heritage with contributions in art, music, dance, and literature. Odissi dance, a classical dance form, originated here and continues to be a prominent cultural expression.
8. Architectural Marvels: The state is renowned for its temples, including the Lingaraja Temple and Mukteshwar Temple in Bhubaneswar, and the Sun Temple in Konark, all showcasing exquisite architectural styles.
9. Natural Beauty: Besides its historical and cultural significance, Odisha is blessed with natural beauty, including pristine beaches along the Bay of Bengal, national parks like Simlipal, and the Chilika Lake, Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon.