The capital of Odisha, Bhubaneshwar, is a city with a rich spiritual, historical, and cultural tapestry. Known as the “Temple City,” Bhubaneshwar was previously home to some 700 temples, making it a significant location for both architecture and religion. Equally enthralling is the state of Odisha, formerly known as Orissa, with its wealth of natural beauty, varied people, and historical sites. The fascinating facts about Bhubaneshwar, the state of Odisha, and its natural wonders will all be covered in this article.
Odisha’s Capital: A Historical Overview
Asshoka’s conquest of Kalinga during the historic Kalinga War, which took place between 262-261 BCE, took place in Bhubaneshwar, close to the remains of Sisupalgarh, the former capital of Kalinga.The area was dominated by a number of kingdoms over the ages, notably the Eastern Gangas and the Mahameghavahana dynasty. It was ruled by the Mughals in the sixteenth century, then the Marathas in the eighteenth. In 1803, British colonial rule got underway. Bhubaneshwar was chosen as the new capital of India in 1948 following the country’s independence, and it developed quickly into a contemporary metropolis.
An Overview of Odisha’s Capital
Temple City: Because of the historical profusion of temples in Bhubaneshwar, the city has been dubbed the “Temple City.” Even though the number has declined over time, it is still a significant religious and architectural hub.
Education Hub: With a number of esteemed academic institutions and research centers located there, Bhubaneshwar has become a well-known hub for education.
Swarna Tribhuja: Including the cities of Puri and Konark, Bhubaneshwar forms the “Golden Triangle,” or “Swarna Tribhuja,” which is the most popular tourist attraction in Eastern India.
Otto Königsberger’s Legacy: Designed by German architect Otto Königsberger in 1946, Bhubaneshwar is a well-planned city that combines modern and historical elements.
Smart City: As part of the Government of India’s “Smart Cities Mission,” Bhubaneshwar has been chosen as one of the cities to showcase its dedication to sustainable urban development.
Historical Capital: A pivotal point in the history of the state was reached on August 19, 1949, when Bhubaneshwar took Cuttack’s place as the capital of Odisha.
Cultural Confluence: The heritage of Bhubaneshwar shows the convergence of Buddhist, Hindu, and Jain traditions, offering an intriguing window into the region’s lengthy past.
Sisupalgarh Ruins: The city is located close to the remains of Sisupalgarh, the former capital of the Kalinga province, providing a historical link.
Kalinga War: The renowned Kalinga War, fought by Emperor Ashoka, took place in Dhauli, close to Bhubaneshwar, and significantly influenced the history of the area.
Business Hub: Bhubaneshwar’s rising economic importance was highlighted in 2014 when it was named India’s best city to conduct business in.
