Utkal Divas 2025, Date, History, Significance of Odisha Foundation Day
Deeksha Dixit1 Apr, 2025
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Utkal Divas 2025 or Odisha Foundation Day 2025 is being celebrated across the state on April 1st, marking the 89th anniversary of the date on which the state of Odisha was officially recognised as a separate province in 1936. Various events such as cultural performances, parades, and public speeches are organized to commemorate the Utkal Divas 2025. Read on to learn its history and significance!
Utkal Divas 2025
Utkal Divas, also known as Odisha Foundation Day or Statehood Day, is celebrated every year on 1st April. It marks the formation of Odisha as a separate state in 1936 during British colonial rule. This day is special for the people of Odisha, as it commemorates their struggle for statehood and cultural identity.
Odisha is known for its rich history, traditions, and contributions to Indian culture. Utkal Divas 2025 will be celebrated with parades, cultural events, and tributes to the leaders who fought for the state's formation. Schools, offices, and government institutions organize programs to honour the occasion.
| Utkal Diwas 2025 Overview | |
| Also Known As | Odisha Foundation Day |
| Date | April 1, 2025 (Tuesday) |
| Significance | Commemorates the formation of Odisha as a separate province on April 1, 1936. |
| Celebration Venue | Satyabhamapur, Salepur, Cuttack district (birthplace of Utkal Gaurab Madhusudan Das) |
| Other Locations | Bhubaneswar and various districts across Odisha. |
| Chief Guest | Chief Minister Shri Mohan Charan Majhi |
| Activities Planned | Photo exhibitions, Public meetings, Felicitation ceremonies, Cultural programs, Floral tributes to eminent personalities’ statues |
| Historical Context | Utkala Sammilani initiated the struggle for statehood in the early 20th century. |
Odisha Foundation Day 2025 Date
Odisha celebrates its 89th Foundation Day on Tuesday, April 1, 2025, commemorating the formation of the state of Odisha (then known as Utkal). It is a significant public celebration in Odisha, marked by official ceremonies, speeches, and cultural events. The day reminds people of the efforts taken by leaders like Madhusudan Das and others to get it recognized as a separate province. Social and political organizations arrange discussions on the state's development and achievements.
History of Odisha Foundation Day
Before 1936, Odisha was part of the Bengal Presidency, Bihar, and the Central Provinces under British rule. The demand for a separate state was based on linguistic and cultural identity. The events leading to Odisha Foundation Day are:
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In the early 20th century, leaders like Madhusudan Das, Utkalmani Gopabandhu Das, and Krushna Chandra Gajapati led the movement for statehood.
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The demand gained momentum, and after several discussions, the British government approved the formation of Odisha.
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On April 1, 1936, Odisha was officially separated from Bihar and Bengal, making it an independent province.
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Sir John Austen Hubback became the first Governor of Odisha.
The formation of Odisha was a landmark moment in India’s history, as it marked the first time in the country’s colonial-era that a state was created based on the linguistic and cultural identity of its people.
Odisha State History
Odisha has a glorious past that dates back to the Mahabharat years. It was home to powerful kingdoms, including the Kalinga Empire, which played a major role in shaping Indian history.
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Ancient Period: Odisha got its name from the Sanskrit word 'Odra Vishaya' or 'Odra Desa'. During ancient times it was ruled by the Kalinga dynasty, which resisted the Mauryan invasion. The famous Kalinga War (261 BCE) led Emperor Ashoka to embrace Buddhism.
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Medieval Period: Odisha flourished under the rule of the Eastern Ganga and Gajapati dynasties. The Konark Sun Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was built during this time.
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Colonial Era: Odisha came under British control in the early 19th century and was divided among different presidencies.
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Modern Era: After statehood in 1936, Odisha grew into a culturally and economically significant state.
The state continues to preserve its rich traditions while progressing in various sectors.
About Odisha State
Credit:knowindia.india.gov.in
Odisha is known for its scenic beauty, cultural heritage, and vibrant festivals. Here are some key facts about the state:
| About Odisha State | |
| Name | Odisha (formerly Orissa until 2011) |
| Location | Eastern India; bordered by Jharkhand, West Bengal, Chhattisgarh, Andhra Pradesh, and Bay of Bengal |
| Area | 155,707 square kilometers (60,119 square miles) |
| Population | Over 4,19,47,358 |
| Capital | Bhubaneswar (Also Largest City) |
| Major Cities | Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, Rourkela, Berhampur, Sambalpur |
| Official Language | Odia/Oriya |
| Formation Date | April 1, 1936 (Utkal Diwas celebrated annually) |
| Historical Name | Odra Vishaya, Odra Desa, Kalinga |
| Administrative Divisions | 30 districts across three revenue divisions: North (Sambalpur), Central (Cuttack), South (Berhampur) |
| Tribal Culture | Largest number of tribes (as many as 62). |
| Economy | Largest manufacturer of Steel, Stainless Steel, and Aluminium |
| Coastline Length | 485 kilometers (301 miles) along the Bay of Bengal |
| Eminent Personalities | The Great Revolutionary Leader Jayee Rajguru, Chandra Sekhar Behera, Raja Artatran Deo, Buxi Jagabandhu |
| Culture Highlights | Classical dance (Odissi), traditional crafts, temples like Konark Sun Temple and Jagannath Temple |
| Website | https://odisha.gov.in/ |
Significance of Odisha Statehood Day 2025
Odisha Statehood Day is an important event that highlights the state's cultural and historical significance. It is a day of pride and reflection for Odia people.
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Honouring the Freedom Fighters: Leaders like Madhusudan Das and Gopabandhu Das played a crucial role in the creation of Odisha. Their efforts are remembered on this day.
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Preserving Cultural Heritage: Odisha has a rich tradition of dance, music, and art. Events showcasing Odissi dance, Pattachitra painting, and tribal crafts are organized.
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Economic and Social Progress: The state has made remarkable progress in education, industry, and infrastructure. Utkal Divas is a time to assess the state's growth and future goals.
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Public Celebrations: Schools, colleges, and government institutions host debates, quizzes, and exhibitions.
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Tributes to Odisha's Legacy: People pay homage to the rich past and work towards a better future for the state.
Utkal Divas 2025 is not just a celebration but a reminder of Odisha’s journey towards progress. It is a day to honour the sacrifices of great leaders and embrace the cultural heritage of the state. On this day people will celebrate with pride and work towards a brighter future for Odisha.
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Utkal Divas 2025 FAQs
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