Utkala Dibasa or Odisha Dibasa… Why This Debate?

By Dilip Sabat 

Utkala Dibasa or Odisha Dibasa? We have been celebrating the formation of Odisha as a separate linguistic state since 1936. So, why has this debate arisen in 2025? Some refer to it as Utkala Dibasa, while others call it Odisha Dibasa, sending greetings and best wishes accordingly. Social media is abuzz with discussions, debates, and differing opinions. Even during the official state anthem, some legislators remain seated instead of standing up in respect. This issue has sparked discussions in political, social, and other spheres. After 89 years of Odisha’s formation, why does this confusion still exist? And as we approach 2036—the centenary of Odisha’s formation—shouldn’t there be clarity on this matter?

On April 1, 1936, Odisha was officially recognized as an independent linguistic state. It is believed that since 1975, the government has been officially celebrating this day as Utkala Dibasa. However, in recent years, the state government has referred to it as Odisha Dibasa. Despite this, various government departments, institutions, ministers, MPs, MLAs, and political organizations continue to use Utkala Dibasa in their communications. Even official government calendars mark the public holiday as Utkala Dibasa.

In the past, both terms were used interchangeably without much controversy. However, this year, the new government’s decision to celebrate April 1 as Odisha Dibasa and extend the celebration into a 14-day event called ‘Odisha Paksha’ has stirred discussions and reactions on social media. But why this shift, and what is the reason behind it?

The BJP won the 2024 elections by appealing to Odia identity and formed its first independent government. During the celebration of the government’s 100-day milestone, a district-level event in Sambalpur was organized under the theme "A New Dawn of Progress: The Rise of a Developed Odisha by 2036." One incident during this event caught significant public attention: When the state anthem ‘Bande Utkala Janani’ was played, everyone stood up in respect—except for a senior leader and MLA from the ruling party, who remained seated.

A similar incident occurred on March 8 during the government’s second phase of the Subhadra scheme in Sambalpur. While everyone stood for the anthem, the same leader remained seated, leading to widespread debate across the state. Defending his stance, he argued, “Odisha was formed by merging Utkala, Kosala, and Kalinga, so why only sing praises of Utkala? The formation of Odisha itself was a historical mistake.” His controversial statement created a stir across the state.

Amidst all these debates, one unifying voice is our national anthem, ‘Jana Gana Mana’, which brings together people despite differences in religion, language, and caste. Standing up when the anthem is played is a mark of respect. But should it be disrespected as an act of protest?

This senior leader has been elected to the Odisha Assembly five times and is currently an MLA. If he has any grievances or demands, he has the platform to raise them in the government or the Assembly. But is showing disrespect to the state anthem the right way?

‘Bande Utkala Janani’ was recognized as the state anthem to symbolize Odia pride and identity. On June 7, 2020, the state cabinet passed a resolution mandating its recitation at official events, educational institutions, etc. The resolution also required individuals to stand while the anthem is played, except for those who are differently abled or pregnant women. However, if deviations from this norm continue, it could lead to further conflicts.

Whether one celebrates Utkala Dibasa or Odisha Dibasa, the love, loyalty, and commitment to this land should remain the same. In previous years, both names were used without controversy, but this year, the debate has escalated. The government must ensure that instead of fuelling division, Odias unite in celebrating the state’s foundation with pride and harmony.

(DISCLAIMER: This is an opinion piece. The views expressed are the author’s own and have nothing to do with OTV’s charter or views. OTV does not assume any responsibility or liability for the same.)