History of Odisha
History of Odisha: Ancient Kalinga to Modern State Growth
Discover the history of Odisha. Explore prehistoric Kalinga, the Maurya conquest, Emperor Kharavela, Eastern Ganga temple marvels, and modern statehood.
· 7 min read
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History of Odisha
Learn about Kalinga heritage, ancient maritime trade, historic wars, and iconic freedom fighters of Odisha.
The land that is now Odisha was known in ancient times as Kalinga, a powerful maritime kingdom whose traders sailed to Sri Lanka and Southeast Asia. The Kalinga War of around 261 BCE, fought against the Mauryan emperor Ashoka, was so bloody that it turned him towards Buddhism, and his edicts can still be seen at Dhauli near Bhubaneswar. Later rulers, including Kharavela and the Eastern Ganga dynasty, built many of the great monuments that survive today.
Modern Odisha was formed on 1 April 1936 as the first Indian state organised on the basis of language. These articles cover that long history, the Kalinga War and leaders such as Utkalmani Gopabandhu Das who shaped the state.
History of Odisha
The Kalinga War: History, Battlefield, and Transformation
Explore the historical Kalinga War of 261 BCE. Learn about Emperor Ashoka, Daya River battlefield, casualties, rock edicts, and the rise of Buddhism.
· 6 min read
History of Odisha
Utkalmani Gopabandhu Das: Life, Legacy, and National Impact
Discover the life of Utkalmani Gopabandhu Das. Explore his Satyabadi school, founding of The Samaja, flood relief efforts, and Suando village memorial.
· 7 min read