Utkal Dibasa, aka Odisha Foundation Day or Statehood Day, is celebrated annually on 1st April. It aims to commemorate formation of Odisha as a separate state in 1936 during British rule. The year 2025 marks 88th anniversary of its establishment as an independent administrative unit.
Historical Background
- Odisha was part of Bengal Presidency before gaining statehood in 1936, alongside Bihar and Jharkhand.
- The struggle for a separate province was led by leaders: Madhusudan Das, Utkalmani Gopabandhu Das, and Fakir Mohan Senapati.
- On April 1, 1936, the British government officially granted Odisha independent administrative status, making it first Indian state founded on linguistic principles.
- Sir John Austen Hubback was appointed as first Governor of Odisha.
Key Highlights
Cultural Celebrations:
- Utkal Dibasa is a day of pride and celebration for people of Odisha, who honor their rich heritage, resilience, and sacrifices.
- The day is marked by vibrant celebrations across the state. It includes cultural performances, parades, and public speeches that highlight Odisha’s cultural identity and legacy.
About Odisha
Name and Origin:
- The name Odisha originates from the Sanskrit terms ‘Odra Vishaya’ or ‘Odra Desa’.
- Historically, the region was known as Kalinga, ruled by the Kalinga dynasty—notably recognized for the Kalinga War in 261 BCE that led Emperor Ashoka to embrace Buddhism.
Historical and Cultural Legacy:
- Odisha flourished under the Eastern Ganga and Gajapati dynasties, leaving behind a rich architectural heritage.
- Iconic monuments such as the Konark Sun Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcase the state’s historical brilliance and architectural innovation.
Geographical and Political Context:
- Formerly known as Orissa until 2011, Odisha is bordered by Jharkhand, West Bengal, Chhattisgarh, Andhra Pradesh, and the Bay of Bengal.
- The historical names Odra Vishaya, Odra Desa, and Kalinga reflect its deep-rooted cultural heritage.