Bhubaneswar: Odisha, a state that has a rich cultural heritage, history and a colourful socio- cultural background. The state have had different names in the past like Kalinga, Utkal, Odra Desh, Toshali etc. Different names indicate different history, dynasties and cultural influences stressing upon the importance of Odisha’s role in the national history, culture and valour. Odisha is the hidden treasure of India. But the state remains unexplored and non commercialized to a large extent as compared to the other states in our country.
There are many tourists destinations which are breathtakingly beautiful in Odisha and they are totally unexplored. All the districts are rich with beautiful visit worthy spots, comprised of nature, greenery, water resources, beaches, reservoirs, lakes, wildlife and many more. Tourism in the state has not been promoted by the government in the past. UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Sun Temple at Konark, a chariot shaped temple is one of the delightful architecture of Kalinga. It is one of the masterpieces Indian art and architecture history which is situated in Puri district. Equally ethereal and aesthetic is the Jagannath Temple, known as Shrikhetra and one of the four pilgrimage Dhams of Hindus. The famous ‘Rath Yatra’, chariot festival is iconic and attracts millions of devotees across the globe.
Odia language is one of the oldest languages in the Indian literacy history existing from about 1000 years. It had got the status of classical language by the government of India in 2014. Odia is the sweetest, melodious and poetic with a spiritual as well as traditional touch of the state’s deep rooted culture. The classical dance form of Odisha, ‘Odissi’ ,which is extremely popular all over the world and had got recognition as the eighth national recognized classical dance form. Odissi has its roots with temple culture, extremely graceful, and spiritual.
Odisha is a tribal dominated state having around 60 diverse tribal communities. The tribal art, crafts, and handlooms are highly appreciated, adored and vibrant in nature. The geographical landscape of the state consists of coastal plains, fertile river valleys, rivers and forests. As mentioned above there are ample natural treasures, wildlife sanctuaries, national parks etc. To name a few Similipal, Chilika Lake and Bhitarkanika including many others. Odisha is a hub of minerals like iron ore, coal and bauxite. The industries and infrastructure is slowly growing in the field of IT, manufacturing and renewable energies. Odisha is emerging as a vibrant and evolving state with its cultural heritage, natural beauty and growing economy.
-OdishaAge
