10 Facts About Odisha
Odisha, formerly known as Orissa, is one of the most culturally vibrant and historically rich states of India. Located on the eastern coast along the Bay of Bengal, Odisha offers a unique blend of ancient heritage, tribal traditions, architectural marvels, spiritual depth, and natural beauty. Often referred to as the “Soul of Incredible India,” Odisha continues to charm historians, pilgrims, and tourists alike.
Here are 10 remarkable facts about Odisha that bring out its diverse essence:
1. Land of Ancient Temples
Odisha is famously called the “Land of Temples,” with over 7000 temples scattered across the state. The most iconic is the Jagannath Temple in Puri, one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites in Hinduism.
Other architectural marvels include the Sun Temple at Konark (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) and the Lingaraj Temple in Bhubaneswar. These temples are not just places of worship but masterpieces of Kalinga architecture that date back to 7th–13th centuries CE.
2. Famous for the Jagannath Rath Yatra
The annual Rath Yatra in Puri is one of the largest and oldest religious processions in the world. During this grand event, the idols of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra are taken on massive wooden chariots pulled by thousands of devotees.
The spectacle attracts lakhs of pilgrims from India and abroad and is a spiritual and cultural highlight of Odisha.
3. Konark Sun Temple – An Architectural Wonder
The Konark Sun Temple, built in the 13th century by King Narasimhadeva I, is designed as a colossal chariot with 12 intricately carved wheels and pulled by seven horses. Dedicated to Surya (Sun God), the temple reflects Odisha’s advanced knowledge of astronomy, art, and architecture.
Though partially in ruins, it continues to draw global admiration and is featured on the ₹10 Indian currency note.
4. Home to Classical Dance Form – Odissi
Odissi, one of the eight classical dance forms of India, originated in Odisha. It is known for its grace, fluidity, and expressions rooted in devotion and temple rituals.
Odissi dancers typically depict stories of Lord Krishna and other deities through intricate footwork, mudras (hand gestures), and soulful music. The dance form has gained international recognition for its spiritual depth and aesthetic beauty.
5. Rich Tribal Culture and Diversity
Odisha is home to over 62 distinct tribes, including the Kondh, Bonda, Santhal, Juang, and Saura, making it one of India’s most tribally diverse states. These indigenous communities have preserved ancient traditions, languages, art forms, and lifestyles.
The tribal belt of Odisha is also famous for Dokra metal craft, Saura paintings, and unique dance forms like Dhemsa.
6. Chilika Lake – Asia’s Largest Brackish Water Lagoon
The Chilika Lake, spread over 1,100 sq. km, is Asia’s largest coastal lagoon and a Ramsar Wetland Site. Located near Puri and Ganjam districts, it is a haven for over 160 species of migratory birds, including flamingos and pelicans.
The lake also supports thousands of fishermen and has small islands like Kalijai, famous for its temple and folklore. In winter, the lake becomes a birdwatcher’s paradise.
7. Odisha’s Ancient Maritime Legacy
In ancient times, Odisha had extensive trade links with Southeast Asian countries like Indonesia, Java, Sumatra, and Sri Lanka. The state’s coastal ports, such as Tamralipta and Kalingapatnam, were vital centers of maritime trade.
This legacy is celebrated through the Boita Bandana festival, where miniature boats are floated in water bodies, remembering the voyages of ancient Odia traders (Sadhabas).
8. Odisha: A State of Natural Beauty and Wildlife
Odisha is blessed with scenic beaches (Puri, Gopalpur), dense forests, and waterfalls. It also houses the Simlipal National Park, a tiger reserve and UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, and Bhitarkanika, India’s second-largest mangrove forest known for estuarine crocodiles.
Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary and Satkosia Tiger Reserve are other biodiversity hotspots that showcase Odisha’s commitment to conservation.
9. State with a Rich Handicraft and Textile Tradition
Odisha is famous for its handloom sarees, especially Sambalpuri, Bomkai, and Ikat designs. These sarees are known for their vibrant colors and intricate tie-dye techniques.
The state also excels in silver filigree (Tarakasi) of Cuttack, Pattachitra paintings, stone carvings, and horn crafts. These handicrafts continue to provide livelihood to thousands of artisans and promote the cultural identity of Odisha.
10. Bhubaneswar – The Smart Temple City
The capital city Bhubaneswar is not only a historical temple town but also one of India’s first planned smart cities. It won the Smart City Challenge in 2016 and is a leading example of urban planning mixed with heritage preservation.
Bhubaneswar, together with Puri and Konark, forms the Golden Triangle of Eastern India, a favorite tourist circuit for spiritual and cultural explorers.
Conclusion
Odisha is a land where tradition meets modernity, where stone speaks through temples, and where nature dances in rhythm with culture. From the sacred chants in Puri to the silent grace of tribal hills, Odisha offers an experience unlike any other Indian state.
Its festivals, classical arts, ancient maritime tales, and spiritual legacy continue to inspire scholars, artists, and travelers. Whether you’re a history buff, a pilgrim, a wildlife enthusiast, or a cultural explorer — Odisha has something timeless to offer.
Visit Odisha — India’s best-kept secret, where every corner tells a story and every tradition breathes life.