Daily Current Affairs Notes for 01 April 2023

Odisha Day or Utkal Divas 2023

On April 1, 1936, Odisha became a state, and since then, this day is celebrated as Odisha Day or Utkal Divas by the people of Odisha, India. The day holds great significance, and the state marks the occasion with cultural programs, parades, and flag hoisting ceremonies. Community leaders and politicians deliver speeches that highlight the state's history and achievements. This celebration provides an opportunity for the people of Odisha to come together and celebrate their cultural heritage and the progress made by the state. Odisha, also referred to as the Land of Lord Jagannath, is known for its beautiful coastline and ancient temples, including the Jagannath Puri Temple and the Sun Temple of Konark, which attract tourists from all over the world. This year, Odisha will celebrate its 88th foundation day on April 1.

History of Odisha

• Located in eastern India, Odisha, also known as Orissa, boasts a rich history dating back to ancient times. The region has evidence of human habitation from the Stone Age, with archaeological sites like Golbai Sasan providing evidence of early settlements.
• During the 3rd century BCE, the region was under the rule of Emperor Ashoka, a powerful ruler known for his conversion to Buddhism and spreading the religion throughout the Indian subcontinent. After the decline of the Mauryan Empire, the region was controlled by various dynasties, such as the Satavahanas, Ikshvakus, and the Mahameghavahana dynasty under the reign of Kharavela.
• Throughout the medieval period, Odisha was governed by several Hindu dynasties, including the Eastern Ganga dynasty that facilitated a flourishing cultural and artistic era. Additionally, the state served as a significant hub for the propagation of the Bhakti movement, with eminent saints like Jayadeva and Ramanuja contributing significantly to its development.
• During the 16th century, the Mughal Empire took control of Odisha, and later on, it was ruled by the British East India Company. Odisha played a crucial role in the Indian independence movement, with eminent leaders such as Utkal Gourav Madhusudan Das, Gopabandhu Das, and Biju Patnaik contributing significantly to the freedom struggle.
• Following India's independence in 1947, Odisha, which became a state on April 1, 1936, has become a significant center for industry, agriculture, and tourism. The state boasts a rich cultural heritage, including a lively arts and crafts tradition, age-old temples, and festivals like the Rath Yatra in Puri that draw visitors from across the nation and around the globe.

Here are some important dates in the history of Odisha:

• 261 BCE: Ashoka the Great, the Mauryan Emperor, established a government in Tosali after conquering the region.
• 3rd century CE: The Kalinga War occurred between the Mauryan Empire and the Kalinga kingdom, which is modern-day Odisha.
• 6th century CE: The Eastern Ganga dynasty gained power over Odisha and ruled the state for nine centuries, until the 15th century.
• 13th century CE: The construction of the Sun Temple in Konark took place.
• 16th century CE: Odisha came under the Mughal Empire's governance.
• 1803 CE: After defeating the Marathas, the British East India Company took control of Odisha.
• 1827 CE: The establishment of the Orissa Medical School, presently known as the SCB Medical College and Hospital, occurred.
• 1876 CE: The Utkal Sabha, a political organization fighting for the rights of Odia people, was formed.
• 1936 CE: On April 1, with the passing of the Government of India Act, 1935, Odisha became a separate state.
• 1950 CE: The Jagannath Temple Act was passed, handing over control of the temple to the state government.
• 2019 CE: Odisha became India's first "open defecation-free" state as announced by the Indian government.