Bhubaneswar history

The history of Bhubaneswar, one of India's oldest cities, spans more than two millennia. It is important to distinguish between the ancient settlement, known as the "City of Temples," and the modern Bhubaneswar, designed in the mid-20th century.

Foundation and First Mentions

• Ancient Roots: The first references to a settlement in this region date back to the 3rd century BC in connection with the Kalinga state. It was here, near the modern city, that the famous battle took place, after which Emperor Ashoka embraced Buddhism.
• Capital of Kingdoms: In the 2nd century BC, the city, then known as Sisupalgarh (now a suburb of modern Bhubaneswar), became the capital of the Kalinga state under Emperor Kharavela. Later, from the 7th to the 12th century, it served as the capital for several dynasties, leading to its flourishing.
• Modern City: Present-day Bhubaneswar was planned by the German architect Otto Koenigsberger and established in 1948, becoming the new capital of the state of Odisha, replacing Cuttack.

Key Factors of Formation

• Political Power: Its status as the capital of powerful kingdoms, such as Kalinga, made the city an important administrative and military centre.
• Religious Significance: Bhubaneswar transformed into a major centre of Shaivism, which resulted in the construction of hundreds of temples. Its name translates as "Lord of the Three Worlds" (an epithet of the god Shiva). The city became a site of mass pilgrimage, which contributed to its growth.
• Trade and Geography: Its location in the Mahanadi river delta and proximity to the coast facilitated the development of trade, especially during the period when the Kalinga kingdom controlled maritime routes in the region.

Early Cultural and Economic Features

• Architecture: The city's "Golden Age" (7th–12th centuries) left a legacy of unique temples in the Kalinga architectural style. While there were once thousands, about 500 have survived to this day, including the famous Lingaraj Temple.
• Cultural Syncretism: Alongside Hindu shrines, Buddhist and Jain monuments, such as the Udayagiri and Khandagiri caves, have been preserved in the region, testifying to a rich and diverse cultural past.
• Economy: The early economy was closely tied to the temples (donations, services for pilgrims) and its status as a capital. Agriculture on fertile lands and traditional crafts, such as stone carving and silver filigree, also played an important role.

Chronology of Bhubaneswar's History

The history of Bhubaneswar, one of the oldest cities in India, covers several eras—from powerful ancient empires to its establishment as a modern state capital. Below are the key milestones of this journey.

• Around 261 BC — A fierce battle takes place near modern Bhubaneswar at Kalinga, after which Emperor Ashoka of the Maurya dynasty adopts Buddhism.
• 2nd Century BC — During the reign of Emperor Kharavela, the city of Sisupalgarh becomes the capital of the Kalinga state; its ruins are located in the suburbs of modern Bhubaneswar.
• 7th Century AD — The city, then known as Ekamra Kshetra, becomes a significant centre of Shaivism and the capital of the Sailodbhava dynasty, marking the beginning of the "Golden Age" of temple construction.
• 8th Century AD — The Parasurameswara Temple is built, one of the oldest surviving temples in the city, demonstrating the early style of Kalinga architecture.
• Around 950 AD — The Mukteswara Temple is constructed, known for its exquisite carvings and unique arched gateway (Torana), considered the "Gem of Odisha Architecture."
• 11th Century AD — Construction is completed on the Lingaraj Temple, the largest and one of the most revered temples in Bhubaneswar, dedicated to Lord Shiva.
• 12th Century AD — A temple dedicated to Goddess Parvati, the consort of Shiva, is erected within the Lingaraj complex.
• 1936 — A separate province of Orissa is created within British India, with Cuttack as its capital.
• 1946 — German architect Otto Koenigsberger develops the plan for modern Bhubaneswar, intended to be the new capital.
• April 13, 1948 — The capital of the state of Orissa (now Odisha) is officially moved from Cuttack to the new, planned city of Bhubaneswar.
• 1956 — Bhubaneswar officially becomes the administrative centre of the state.
• March 2013 — A new modern terminal opens at Biju Patnaik Airport, strengthening the city's status as a major transport hub in Eastern India.

The history of Bhubaneswar is a unique blend of ancient traditions and modern planning. Known as the "City of Temples," the city has passed through several key stages that have defined its current appearance.

Major Milestones in the Development of Bhubaneswar

• Ancient Capital (3rd Century BC): The region of modern Bhubaneswar was the heart of the powerful Kalinga kingdom. A famous battle took place nearby, which prompted Emperor Ashoka to embrace Buddhism. During this period, the fortified capital of Sisupalgarh was located here, laying the foundation for the city's future significance.
• "Golden Age" of Temple Architecture (7th–12th Centuries): In this era, the city, having become a centre of Shaivism, earned its nickname—the "City of Temples." Hundreds of shrines were erected in a unique architectural style, including the famous Lingaraj Temple. This turned Bhubaneswar into one of the most important pilgrimage centres in India and shaped its cultural landscape.
• Founding of the New Capital (1948): After India gained independence, a decision was made to move the capital of Odisha state from Cuttack. For this purpose, modern Bhubaneswar—a city with wide avenues and clear zoning—was designed and established according to the project of German architect Otto Koenigsberger.
• Merger of Two Cities: The development of a new administrative capital next to the ancient temple city created a unique urban environment. Today, Bhubaneswar represents a harmonious coexistence of the old and the new: narrow streets with ancient shrines sit alongside modern buildings and infrastructure.
• Centre of Economy and Education: Since the late 20th century, the city has been actively developing as a significant economic, educational, and IT hub of Eastern India. Offices of major companies and leading educational institutions are located here, attracting professionals and youth to the city.
• "Smart City" Project: In the 21st century, Bhubaneswar led the national "Smart City" programme. This initiative aims to introduce modern technologies to improve the quality of life, upgrade infrastructure, and ensure sustainable development, marking a new stage in its urban evolution.

The architectural appearance of Bhubaneswar is unique due to the coexistence of two completely different urban planning eras: the ancient "City of Temples" and the modernist capital planned in the 20th century. This creates a striking contrast between medieval architecture and post-war urbanism.

The Ancient City: Kalinga Architecture (7th–13th Centuries)

The old part of Bhubaneswar is a veritable encyclopedia of temple architecture in the Kalinga style, which flourished here for several centuries. This style, a variation of the North Indian Nagara style, has its own distinctive features. A temple complex usually consists of two main parts: a tall sanctuary tower called the deula, and an adjoining hall for worshippers called the jagamohana. The temples were built of sandstone and adorned with intricate stone carvings.

• Early Period (7th–9th Centuries): Characterised by temples that are more modest in size but richly decorated. A prime example is the Parasurameswara Temple, one of the oldest in the city, demonstrating the early forms of this style.
• Peak Period (10th–11th Centuries): During this time, the most majestic masterpieces were created. The Mukteswara Temple, known as the "Gem of Odisha Architecture," is famous for its graceful proportions and unique arched gateway (torana). The apogee of the style was the grand Lingaraj Temple (11th century), dominating the old city with its 55-metre tower.
• Late Period (12th–13th Centuries): Architecture becomes even more complex, with the addition of dance halls (nata-mandir) and offering halls (bhoga-mandapa).

Modern Bhubaneswar: Modernism and Planning (Since 1946)

New Bhubaneswar is one of the first planned cities of independent India. Its design was developed in 1946 by the German architect Otto Koenigsberger. It was based on a modernist approach to urban planning, popular in the mid-20th century.

• Functional Zoning: The city was clearly divided into sectors with different purposes: the administrative centre (Capital Hospital Area), business districts, broad residential quarters, educational campuses, and industrial zones.
• Infrastructure and Green Zones: The plan provided for wide avenues, a grid of perpendicular streets, and an abundance of parks and squares, intended to ensure a comfortable and healthy urban environment.
• Architectural Style: Buildings of this era, such as the Secretariat and the Assembly, are executed in the spirit of functionalism and brutalism—simple geometric forms, the use of reinforced concrete, and minimal decoration. This concise style contrasts sharply with the lavish ornamentation of the ancient temples.

Contemporary Era: IT Hub and "Smart City" (21st Century)

Since the end of the 20th century, Bhubaneswar has transformed into one of the leading IT and educational centres of Eastern India. This gave impetus to a new stage of urban development. The architecture of this period reflects global trends: modern business centres made of glass and steel, technology parks (such as Infocity), and large shopping malls are appearing. As part of the national "Smart City" programme, innovative solutions in transport, waste management, and energy conservation are being implemented in the city, continuing to shape its image as a dynamic and modern metropolis.

Notable Personalities Associated with Bhubaneswar

Bhubaneswar and the Odisha region as a whole have given the world many outstanding figures in the fields of politics, art, literature, and science. Here are some of the key figures whose names are inextricably linked with the history and culture of the city:

• Emperor Kharavela (2nd or 1st Century BC): A powerful ruler of the ancient kingdom of Kalinga. His capital, Sisupalgarh, was located in the vicinity of modern Bhubaneswar. The deeds of Kharavela are immortalised in the famous "Hathigumpha" rock inscription in the Udayagiri caves, which are one of the city's main historical attractions.
• Jayadeva (12th Century): The great Sanskrit poet, author of the epic poem "Gita Govinda," which describes the divine love of Krishna and Radha. Although his birthplace is a subject of debate, his work became the foundation for the classical Odissi dance and religious traditions, making him a central figure in the cultural history of the region.
• Gopabandhu Das (1877–1928): Revered as "Utkala Mani" (Jewel of Utkala/Odisha), he was a prominent freedom fighter, social reformer, poet, and journalist. His tireless work to unite Odia-speaking regions played a key role in the creation of the separate state of Odisha, with Bhubaneswar as its capital.
• Biju Patnaik (1916–1997): A distinguished statesman who twice served as the Chief Minister of Odisha and is known as the "Architect of Modern Odisha." He was a pilot, industrialist, and politician whose efforts contributed to the industrialisation and infrastructure development of the state. Bhubaneswar's international airport is named in his honour.
• Kelucharan Mohapatra (1926–2004): A legendary guru credited with the revival and popularisation of the classical Indian dance form Odissi in the 20th century. He systematised this style and founded the "Srjan" institute in Bhubaneswar, turning the city into a global centre for the study of Odissi dance.
• Jatin Das (born 1941): A world-renowned contemporary painter, sculptor, and muralist originally from Odisha. He is the founder of the JD Centre of Art in Bhubaneswar, dedicated to preserving and promoting the traditional and contemporary art of the region.
• Pratibha Ray (born 1943): A distinguished writer and recipient of the prestigious Jnanpith Award (India's equivalent of the Nobel Prize for Literature) for 2011. In her novels and stories, she explores social issues and human psychology against the backdrop of Odisha's rich culture. Residing in Bhubaneswar, she makes a significant contribution to the intellectual life of the city and the state.