Rich with vibrant culture, stunning architecture and glorious history, the Odisha as we know today came into existence as the first State in the pre-Independent India to be formed on the linguistic basis on 1 April, 1936.
As the State turns 87 today on April 1, 2022, not only Odias but people from all over the world joined the occasion to pay tributes to the land of Lord Jagannath and remembered the great souls who took immeasurable pains in achieving the independence of the State.
Illustrious personalities from all spheres of life and the common man celebrated the statehood day - Utkal Diwas - with great pomp and gaiety. Various offices and junctures of the Capital City of Bhubaneswar have been decorated to mark the occasion.
“Due to Covid pandemic, Utkal Dibasa was observed in a subdued manner in the last two years. But this year, capital city Bhubaneswar and the State Assembly have been illuminated with attractive lights. I appeal people to come and see Bhubaneswar. I proudly say that I am an Odia,” said a resident in Bhubaneswar.
On the occasion, President Ram Nath Kovind, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, Governor Professor Ganeshi Lal among others extended greetings to the people of the State.
Wish the people of the State, President Kovind said, the State gave the world a message of peace, love and shunning violence.
“On Odisha Day, my greetings to the people of the state. The land of the temples of Jagannath, Lingaraj, Konark and other rich heritages, Odisha gave the world a message of peace and love, shunning violence. My best wishes for the progress of the state,” Kovind tweeted.
"On the special occasion of Utkala Dibasa, best wishes to the people of Odisha. Odia people are making landmark contributions to India's progress and Odia culture is globally admired," PM Modi said in a tweet.
"I pray for Odisha's development in the times to come," he said.
Taking to Twitter, CM Naveen Patnaik wrote, “Heartiest congratulations and best wishes to all on the occasion of Odisha Day. On this occasion, I pay my respects to the distinguished leaders of the formation of a separate state of Odisha. Let us continue to strengthen our joint efforts for the prosperity of Odisha while maintaining the self-esteem of the Odia community. Bande Utkal Janani.”
Extending wishes to all, Odisha Governor Professor Ganeshi Lal remembered those who played crucial role in the formation of the State and called for strengthening the culture and heritage of the State.
Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan extended greetings to all on the occasion of Utkal Dibasa and paid tributes to leaders who played significant role in creation of Odisha as a separate State.
BJP national vice-president Baijayant Panda wished the people of Odisha on Utkal Dibasa saying ‘I am proud to say that I am Odia.’