Utkal Divas 2025, Odisha Foundation Day, History, Significance

29-03-2025

06:34 AM

Utkal Divas 2025 is also known as Odisha Foundation Day 2025 will be celebrated on April 1st to mark the 88th anniversary of Odisha becoming a separate state in 1936. The day is observed with vibrant celebrations across the state, including cultural performances, parades, and public speeches. Keep reading the article to know the history, significance and the rich heritage of the state.

Utkal Divas 2025

Odisha was a part of Bengal Presidency before gaining statehood in 1936, along with Bihar and Jharkhand. Prominent leaders like Madhusudan Das, Utkalmani Gopabandhu Das, and Fakir Mohan Senapati raised the demand of a separate state in early 20s.

Their efforts led to the formation of Odisha as India’s first state established on a linguistic basis. On April 1, 1936, the British Government officially separated Odisha from Bihar and Orissa Province, granting it independent administrative status. This remarkable achievement is celebrated every year as Odisha Statehood Day or Utkal Divas.

Odisha Foundation Day 2025 Overview

Utkal Divas, also known as Odisha Foundation Day or Statehood Day, is celebrated annually on 1st April to mark the formation of Odisha as a separate state in 1936 during British rule. This day holds great significance for the people of Odisha, honoring their struggle for statehood and celebrating their cultural identity. Check out the table below to know the insights of the Odisha Foundation Day 2025 Overview:

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 Foundation Day 2025 is celebrated on 1st April, 2025, Tuesday which marks the public celebration in Odisha by official ceremonies, speeches, and cultural performance celebrating the rich heritage and achievements of Odisha. It also celebrates the efforts of the prominent leaders who played a major role in securing the statehood of Odisha. On this occasion, social and political organizations often organize discussions and events to reflect on the state’s progress and future aspirations. The celebration unites people in remembering Odisha’s proud history and honoring the contributions of its leaders.

Utkal Divas 2025 History

Before forming as a separate state in 1936, Odisha was part of the Bengal Presidency, Bihar, and the Central Provinces under British rule. The demand for a separate state was initiated from the desire to safeguard Odisha’s linguistic and cultural identity.

In the early 20th century, prominent leaders like Madhusudan Das, Utkalmani Gopabandhu Das, and Krushna Chandra Gajapati led the movement for statehood. Their efforts gained strong support, leading to discussions with the British government.

Finally, on April 1, 1936, Odisha was officially separated from Bihar and Bengal, becoming an independent province. Sir John Austen Hubback was appointed as the First Governor of Odisha.

Odisha State History

Odisha has a rich and vibrant history that dates back to the times of the Mahabharata. It was home to powerful kingdoms, including the renowned Kalinga Empire, which played a significant role in shaping Indian history.

Ancient Period

The name Odisha originates from the Sanskrit term 'Odra Vishaya' or 'Odra Desa'. During ancient times, the region was ruled by the Kalinga dynasty, known for its resistance against the Mauryan invasion. The famous Kalinga War in 261 BCE deeply impacted Emperor Ashoka, leading him to embrace Buddhism.

Medieval Period

Odisha flourished under the Eastern Ganga and Gajapati dynasties. Iconic monuments like the Konark Sun Temple is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, were constructed during this era, reflecting the state’s architectural brilliance.

Colonial Era

In the early 19th century, Odisha came under British rule and was divided among different administrative presidencies.

Modern Era

After gaining statehood in 1936, Odisha made remarkable progress in culture, economy, and development, preserving its rich heritage while embracing modernization.

About Odisha State

Odisha is known for the landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and colorful festivals. Check out the table know some key facts About Odisha 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/

Utkal Divas 2025 Significance

Odisha Statehood Day, celebrated on April 1st every year, also known as Utkal Divas 2025, an occasion that showcases the state’s cultural and historical significance. It is a day of pride and reflection for the people of Odisha.

Visionary leaders like Madhusudan Das and Gopabandhu Das played a major role in Odisha’s formation. Their contributions are celebrated with tributes and remembrance ceremonies.
The rich traditions of the state in dance, music, and art are showcased through events featuring Odissi dance, Pattachitra paintings, and tribal crafts.
Odisha has achieved significant milestones in education, industry, and infrastructure. Utkal Divas serve as a time for citizens to reflect on the state’s growth and set aspirations for the future.
Schools, colleges, and government institutions organize debates, quizzes, and exhibitions to promote the legacy of the state.
The Odisha Day encourages people to honour the historical journey of the state.

Utkal Divas 2025 FAQs

Q1. Who was the hero of Utkal Divas?

Ans. Madhusudan Das is considered the hero of Utkal Divas for his pivotal role in Odisha’s statehood movement, advocating for Odia identity and unity.

Q2. How to observe utkal divas?

Ans. Utkal Divas is observed with cultural programs, parades, flag hoisting, competitions, tributes to leaders, and discussions on Odisha's heritage, progress, and future goals.

Q3. On which date is the foundation day observed in Odisha?

Ans. Odisha Foundation Day, also known as Utkal Divas, is observed on April 1st every year to commemorate the state's formation in 1936.

Q4. What is the old name of Odisha?

Ans. The old name of Odisha was Kalinga. It was historically known for the Kalinga War fought between Emperor Ashoka and the Kalinga kingdom in 261 BCE.

Q5. Who is the founder of Utkal?

Ans. The legendary King Mahameghavahana Kharavela is often regarded as the founder of Utkal, known for his leadership and contributions to Odisha's prosperity.