Country | India |
Population | 837321 |
Area | 186 km2 (72 sq mi) |
Time Zone | UTC+5:30 (IST) |
Coordinates | 20.27241, 85.83385 |
Highest elevation | 45 m (148 ft) |
City Gallery
City Description
Bhubaneswar, the capital and largest city of Odisha, India, is a vibrant metropolis steeped in history and culture. Located in the Khordha district, Bhubaneswar is often referred to as the “Temple City” due to its historical abundance of around 700 temples. Today, it stands as a hub for education and a burgeoning business destination.
The modern city of Bhubaneswar was officially established in 1948, but the area’s history dates back to the 7th century BCE and even earlier. The city is a significant confluence of Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain heritage, boasting numerous Kalingan temples from the 6th to the 13th century CE. Together with Puri and Konark, Bhubaneswar forms the “Swarna Tribhuja” (Golden Triangle), one of Eastern India’s most popular tourist circuits.
Bhubaneswar replaced Cuttack as the capital of Odisha on August 19, 1949, two years after India gained independence from Britain. The modern city was designed by the German architect Otto Königsberger in 1946, making it one of India’s first planned cities alongside Jamshedpur and Chandigarh. Bhubaneswar and Cuttack are often called the ‘twin cities of Odisha,’ with a combined metropolitan population of around 1.7 million as of the 2011 census. The Bhubaneswar metro area alone has a population of approximately one million, categorizing it as a Tier-2 city. Additionally, Bhubaneswar, along with Rourkela, is part of India’s smart city mission.
Geographically, Bhubaneswar is situated on the eastern coast of India, making it a gateway to the state’s rich cultural and natural heritage. The city’s layout blends modern urban planning with historical sites, providing a unique living experience that combines convenience with tradition.
Culturally, Bhubaneswar is a treasure trove. The old town area, often depicted as Chakra Kshetra and Ekamra Kshetra (Area adorned with a mango tree), is filled with ancient temples like the Lingaraj Temple, Mukteshvara Temple, and Rajarani Temple. These architectural marvels showcase the city’s rich religious history and attract thousands of visitors each year.
Bhubaneswar has also emerged as an education hub, with several prestigious institutions such as IIT Bhubaneswar, NISER, and Xavier University. These institutions not only provide quality education but also contribute to the city’s skilled workforce, driving its economic growth.
Economically, Bhubaneswar is rapidly growing. The city is home to various industries, including information technology, education, and manufacturing. The establishment of IT parks and special economic zones has attracted numerous national and international companies, making Bhubaneswar a key player in India’s IT sector. The city’s economy is further bolstered by its status as a smart city, with ongoing projects aimed at improving infrastructure, connectivity, and urban living standards.
The human resources in Bhubaneswar are diverse and highly skilled, thanks to the presence of numerous educational institutions and training centers. This skilled workforce is a significant asset for the city’s growing industries, particularly in the IT and service sectors.
Bhubaneswar’s infrastructure is well-developed, with efficient transportation networks that include a modern airport, well-connected railway stations, and extensive roadways. The city is also part of the proposed Bhubaneswar-Cuttack metro rail project, which aims to enhance connectivity between the twin cities and ease traffic congestion.
Living in Bhubaneswar offers a blend of modern amenities and cultural richness. The city’s parks, such as Biju Patnaik Park and Ekamra Kanan Botanical Gardens, provide green spaces for recreation and relaxation. The local cuisine, known for its delectable dishes like Dalma, Pakhala Bhata, and Chhena Poda, is a treat for food enthusiasts.
Bhubaneswar is also a city of festivals, with events like Durga Puja, Rath Yatra, and Diwali celebrated with great enthusiasm. These festivals reflect the city’s vibrant cultural life and provide a glimpse into the traditions and customs of Odisha.
In conclusion, Bhubaneswar is a city that beautifully combines its ancient heritage with modern growth and development. Its strategic location, robust economy, rich cultural heritage, and well-developed infrastructure make it an attractive place to live, work, and visit. Whether exploring its historical temples, enjoying its cultural festivities, or participating in its dynamic economy, Bhubaneswar offers a unique and enriching experience that captures the essence of Odisha.
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