Sambalpuri Din- A Unique way to celebrate our culture.

India has thousands of unique and distinct cultures. Culture differences between religions and communities. India's languages, religions, dance, music, architecture, food and customs differ from place to place within the country. Indian culture, often labeled as an amalgamation of several cultures, spans across the Indian subcontinent and has been influenced by a history that is several millennia old. The eastern coastal state of India, Odisha, also has many different cultures and traditions. The western part of Odisha is famous for its Sambalpuri Saree as well as the Sambalpuri traditional music. 

The Western part of Odisha state is united by its own hand. This small area also has many languages, music, dance and food. The handloom is generally called Sambalpuri but it has different names according to their origin and weaving style. In the past, it has gained huge popularity and now people have started a unique way to celebrate Sambalpuri.

 Sambalpuri Din or Sambalpuri Day is celebrated like a festival among the people of western Odisha. No matter where they are living, they celebrate this festival which comes before Nuakhai. On this particular day in 1913, the greatest poet of Sambalpuri Sri Satya Narayan Bohidar was born to Mr. Mitrabhanu Bohidar of Sonepur. When he was 6, he lost his mother and moved to his aunt's place in Sambalpur. He passed out matric from Zilla School in 1930. In 1936, he passed out C.T and started his career as a third teacher from Bargarh Jeorge High School in 1937. In 1940, he joined as a Head Master in Melchamunda Vernacular school. In 1946, he joined Zilla School and from this school he retired. 

From his childhood Mr. Bohidar started a revolution. In his daily life, he requested people to use the Sambalpuri language. He was so much into writing that the ink spots were seen in his whole body. He has written many books on the Sambalpuri language and grammar. "Sambalpuri Bhasa Byakaran", "Abal Sambalpur" etc are his creations. He was trying to get a special recognition for the "Sambalpuri" language. He once had a discussion with the then Chief Minister of Odisha Sir Harekrishna Mahatab. Dr. Mahatab used to say there is no difference in the Sambalpuri language but soon after this meeting he said " Sambalpuri is a different language and more research to be done on this ". He urged people to Speak, Write and Wear Sambalpuri. 

In remembrance of his work towards the uplift of the Sambalpuri language and culture, we are celebrating "Sambalpuri Day". This celebration started on August 1, 2013, on his 100th birthday. In different parts of the world, the people from Western Odisha are celebrating this day as a festival. To promote Sambalpuri culture, tradition and language, many events happen on different platforms. For this day, the Sambalpuri Handloom has gone to a different level and youths are getting attracted to this. On his birthday, let's promise to promote our own Sambalpuri culture, tradition, language and handloom.

Shibashish Mahapatra

shibashishmahapatra.100@gmail.com

Mob - +91 73772 02389

Heritage Buildings Of Sonepur Gadajat

  Sonepur College Building in Mitrodaya House

The present Subarnapur town is regarded as one of the oldest cities in Odisha. The chronological history of Subarnapur district can be dated from 8th century AD, when it was known as Swarnapur and was a part of Khinjali Mandal, ruled by the Bhanjas as the feudatory of the Bhaumakaras of Toshali. The District was ruled by many dynasties from its past. Madan Gopal, who laid the foundation of the Chouhan kingdom of Sonepur in AD 1640. Since then the Chouhans ruled over Sonepur kingdom till its merger with the Orissa province on 1st January 1948 and became a Sub–Division under Bolangir District.

H.H. Maharaja K.C.I.E Bir Mitrodaya Singhdeo Bahadur

The region of Bir Mitrodaya Singh Deo (AD 1902–1937) was regarded as the golden age for the all-round development of the kingdom. The British Govt. highly praised his sound administration and gave him the title of Maharaja. During his rule in 1905, Subarnapur kingdom was transferred from central provinces and was placed with the commissioner of Odisha division under West Bengal. Bir Mitradaya Singh Deo rendered a lot of help to the British Government during the First World War and for this help, he was rewarded with the title of K.C.I.E. and the title of Maharaja was made hereditary. He consolidated the Revenue laws and Rule of the kingdom and codified them in a book called “Bhumi Bidhi”. For financial support to different institutions and for the development of the state, the Subarnapur state Trust Funds was established in 1925. The Subarnapur chair in English at Ravenshaw College, Cuttack and the Subarnapur chair in Oriya at Calcutta University were established by his liberal donations. Maharaja B.M.Singh Deo had patronised a number of eminent scholars in his Durbar and published a large number of rare books. During his era, he built many buildings in his kingdom which were used as schools official buildings.

           Upper part of Royal Statue House

During his era, he made many schools, hospitals, roads and buildings. The palace on the bank of the river Mahanadi has a beautiful view. The building of the current police station was built by him during 1907. Apart from this, he has shown his interest in building Statue House, Mitrodaya Building, Engine House, Victoria Buildings etc. He was a visionary leader and during his time the region was well cultivated. He himself made many warehouses in his kingdom. These warehouses were in Binka, Rampur, Dunguripali, Saradhapali, Chadhepank, Tarbha, Arjunpur, Ulunda, Jaloe, Subalaya, Birmaharajpur etc. During the king’s visit, these places were used as royal rest houses. Many palaces were made in Sambalpur, Jharsuguda, Cuttack and Puri by the king.

                Arjunpur Royal Rest House

The Statue house was a building of marvellous masonry workmanship with three giant statues of feudatory kings of Sonepur. After the statues were removed for auction in 1980, it served as a co-operative building. Subsequently it was demolished later on. The statues had original robes with gold and silver embroidery. A scared king auctioned everything before fleeing to Calcutta. He was apprehensive about his life. Apart from this, a part of the Sonepur Palace is now being used as the Cinema Hall. As there was no control the people from Sonepur looted everything from these places in the broad daylight.

          Rampur Rest House cum Warehouse

Now many buildings from this princely state have lost their identity. The Mitrodaya house is where the Sonepur Raj College and the Sonepur Police station stand on the Police Station Statue House of the ancient kingdom. After the death of K.C.I.E Biromitrodaya Singh Deo all his efforts collapsed. During his son’s period, the Sonepur Kingdom was merged with Odisha. The next generation as well the government failed to store such beautiful and heritage buildings. The Government took interest in demolishing many buildings rather than maintaining them. The Dilbahalipur royal building which was once used as the prison for Praja Mandala Movement and the Royal Leprosy Building is going to lose its identity. The Royal Building in Arjunpur is waiting for its turn to be demolished.

                The Sonepur Royal Palace 

We still have some buildings which can be maintained. The Rani Bakhri of Sambalpur got a new identity. Likewise, these buildings in Sonepur should get its old charm. The Kalapani in Andaman and the buildings of Ghens Zamindar are now historical monuments. The local government as well as the public should take some steps in the upbringing of these historical ancient buildings.

Shibashish Mahapatra

Mob - +91 7377202389

shibashishmahapatra.100@gmail.com

Sitalsasthi - A grand celebration from Sambalpur

The western part of Odisha is the hub of culture and tradition. Nuakhai is the famous festival that is celebrated widely in this part. Still there are many festivals being celebrated in different parts. Every festival is important and extravaganza. The Bargarh district is famous for Dhanu Jatra where as Sambalpur is famous for Sitalsasthi.

The Sitalsasthi festival was started by the then king of Sambalpur Raja Baliar Singh. Once during his tenure as Raja in the year 1677 he visited Puri and Lord Shree Jagannath. While coming he brought some Bramhins from Puri and they were called as Utkaliya Bramhin. These Bramhins were devotees of Lord Shiva. The traditional Sitalsasthi festival was a part of Puri Jagannath Temple and the Bramhins brought this culture along with them from Puri. During that era there was only one Shiva Temple in Sambalpur . The temple was near Balibandha and called as Somanath Temple. The festival Sitalsasthi started from this temple in the year 1678. After this, many people started celebrating this festival in different parts of the city. 

                   Somanath Temple Balibandh

The entire Sitalsasthi festival can be divided into 5 parts as Patrapendi, Guaganda, Marriage,Proceaaion and temple entry. This festival acutely starts from Akhya Tritiya where selection of parents for Devi Parbati is conducted. After getting the permission for marriage,donations toward this begins. A few people are asked to do the secret donation. Many  people gather here to witness the marriage of lord Shiva .             

                           Rituals of Patarpendi

Patarpendi is the first day and it is celebrated on the third day of Jyostha Shukla. On this day to search the groom the seven sages along with  father of the bride goes to the groom's place.  Along with them they bring Sarees, Fruits,Sweets and many other things. During the journey traditional Dhol, Bell ,Conch are plyed. After reaching the groom's place the bride side requests for the marriage. The groom's side will decide among themselves and say Yes. After getting the positive response they will exchange the token for marriage.

                             Guagunda Puja

The next day is celebrated as Guagunda and it is the second day of the festival. Lord Shiva himself goes to invite others to his marriage. On behalf of him Lord Hanuman gies to many places and request others to be a part of the holy marriage. He also invites other gods by giving some token. This ritual is called as Guagunda. A separate chariot is made for Hanuman. Special invitiee is lord Gopinath Jew and he makes his presence till the end of the ceremony. A group of traditional musicians are part of this along with bell and conch.

                            Ganthal Phita

The third day is important as the marriage of Lord Shiva with Maa Parvati occurs. In the morning Lord Shiva and Parvati are taken to the house where Maa Parvati got married last year. Her parents of last year function are also a part of this. The knot from the last year marriage are opened here in her last year parents house. This is called Ganthal phita. The relationship between Maa Parvati with her parents from last year ends here. The new parents for this year takes her to their home. Lord shiva comes back to his temple and gets ready for the marriage. In the mid night the journey begins from the temple to the in-law's house. Lord Hanuman, Gopinath jew, Nandi and many other becomes a part of this along with many cultural dance and music performers. Marriage starts in in law's house.

                 Journey towards Maa Parvati

The very next day is also important as the procession begins. This is the only day in a year when the couple together visit the city. After getting a fond farewell they start their journey from the marriage hall. Along with them they get many presentation. Many traditional dance and music troops from diffrent parts of India participate in the procession. Till midnight or till the very next day this procession lasts.

                                Procession

 The last day starts with the remaining procession. Once the chariots reaches, the process for  temple entry of the new couple begins. After this Satyanarayan Puja begins thanking the lord. Lakhs of people gather here to be a part of the wedding.

The wedding starts and ends with a human touch. Welcoming the bride and fond farewell to the couple creates an  emotional moment. Traditional folk dance and song is an important part of this festival. Many transgender community throughout India takes part in the holy marriage. It is a belief in the transgender community that by dancing infront of God Shiva and Parvati  they get Moksha after death. Generally this festival is observed in summer time.

Shibashish Mahapatra

shibashishmahapatra.100@gmail.com

Sonepur a city having Eight different Hanumans

Odisha has created a unique identity in India for its culture, tradition and heritage. The state Odisha has a very old civilization and history. The plains, hills, forests, rivers, springs and temples of western Odisha have a special attraction. From the point of research and history, it holds an important place. Even today, there are many areas and historical sites that are not accessible to the public.

There is no doubt that Subarnapur is a famous pilgrimage site among the ancient tourist attractions of Odisha. Like Ganges-Yamuna-Saraswati in the Prayag Tirtha in Allahabad, the Triveni confluence of the Mahanadi-Telandi-Karpur rivers has taken place here. For this reason, it has been referred to as Varanasi and also called as second Prayag Tirtha. It is also called Parshuram's land as Maharshi Jamadagna performed the Maharudra Yajna here.

The Subarnapur city is also known as the temple City of Odisha. Archaeological excavations have revealed the remains of many temples and deities. Many old and new temples have been built, both small and large.Among them, many Hanuman temples can be seen in this city. Once upon a time, the city was called the place of Astha Mahavir (eight ancient hanuman temples) like Ashta Shambhu, Ashta Chandi and Ashta Vishnu.Out of these eight ancient hanuman temples, few are lost due to lack of proper maintenance. The eight Mahabirs are named after their location as Bada Hanuman, Gad Hanuman, Bat Hanuman, Ghat Hanuman, Dhar Hanuman, Jhar Hanuman, Ghar Hanuman and Par Hanuman.

The district's main hospital in Sonepur has the highest Hanuman temple in the city. According to its construction style, it was built by Maharaja Achal Singhdev between 1725 and 1750. In front of the temple, military feudal lords used to practice warfare. Over time, he was worshiped by the subjects. Before independence, on the full moon day of Ashwin, Lord Hanuman's famous festival used to happen and it used to start from the palace.

There is a Hanuman temple inside the fort of Sonepur city. It is called Gad Hanuman as it is inside the fort. The Hanuman temple is located at the east gate of the Subarnapur Fort to protect the fort. For a long time, God Hanuman lived in a half-broken mandapa. Later, Maharaja Birmitrodaya Singh Deb built a small temple and established the idol.

Not far from Sonepur town, there are seven ponds. People call it " Seven ponds" (ସାତ ବନ୍ଧଲି) . It is important for flood control, irrigation and rainwater conservation in Sonepur. There is a Hanuman temple near the ponds called Ghat Hanuman. It is unknown about the history of the Temple. Under the sky God was being worshipped. Later on, a devotee built a small temple in place.

One more Hanuman Temple is located in the courtyard of the West Somnath Temple. The temple was built by King Prataparudra Dev between 1891-1902. Inside the king's palace one more Hanuman temple was there. The king and his family used to worship them. As the temple was inside the Palace, he was called Ghar Hanuman. The temple of Jhar Hanuman was located in the Dilbahalipur forest. Today, all these Hanumans are about to lose their existence. Apart from this, many temples are facing the negligence of maintenance.

Subarnapur or Sonepur is known as Tribeni Sangam. At the confluence of the Mahanadi and the Telnadi temple of Hanuman can be seen. This temple is called Dhar Hanuman. The floor of the river is called Kaleshwar rock. The old temple was flooded, but the Vishnu feet and the sacrificial tank there were all safe. The present temple was built a few years ago. Outside the city, one more Hanuman temple is located at the Gandhasana mouth of the Tel River. Being outside the city, the temple is called the Par Hanuman. 

Even today Sonepur is regarded as the city of Tantra. This area is known as one of the oldest Tantrik establishments in India. Inside the Mahanadi river Lankeswari temple is situated. This temple is evidence of the Tantrik establishments. This city celebrates a rare and unique festival called Lanka Podi. It is celebrated on the day of Bhadrapada Amabasya. It is believed that Hanuman set fire to the city of Lanka on this particular day. To commemorate this, children roam the city, setting fire to the tails of various Hanuman idols made of clay and wood.

It is an old city. It has old culture, traditions and heritage. Yet the city is utterly neglected. Many of the monuments have been lost today, and many are on the verge of extinction. Due to negligence and lack of research, a lot of information is not available.

Shibashish Mahapatra

shibashishmahapatra.100@gmail.com

Papanga hill known for Guerrilla war.

Odisha is surrounded by lush green forests, beautiful temples, amazing architecture and mind-blowing monuments. For Odisha and Odia, these things hold an important role. Historically and culturally, these are associated in the daily life of Odias. Back in history, many exciting events have taken place in all these areas, which still tremble in the body.

Bargarh district is known as the rice bowl of Odisha. Both from agricultural and historical points, this place is important. Today's Bargarh district was a stronghold of the former state of Patna. All these forts were ruled by zamindars or Pattayat kings. In the past, there have been mass protests or rebellions against the British government in the region. The leader of one such rebellion was Vir Surendra Sai, the great freedom fighter of western Odisha.

The Papanga Hills, near the Bheden block in Bargarh district, are a blazing example of this. According to researchers and historians, the war hero Surendra Sai from this high mountain fought a guerrilla war against the British government. Its mute witness is the Surendra Sai Cave in the middle of the hill. Surendra Sai's guerrilla warfare spread to Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand. The area was an impregnable fortress for the rebels because of its location and size.

One of Surendra Sai's most trusted associates was the Veden zamindar. The Papanga hills were used because of the presence of this vein. In the tribal inhabited areas, steep hills rise and the thick forest helped those fighters to hide from the enemies. There is a triangular natural pond in the forest with all year round water.

The natural beauty of this mountain attracts many people all year round and celebrates many festivals. Many tourists from outside Odisha, like from Chattisgarh, also come here for leisure. This is an important picnic spot on the tourist map of Odisha. The lush green zone is the main attraction along with the hill climbing experience.

There are some small temples on this mountain. You have to climb a lot of cement steps to get in here. There are green trees and herbs on both sides of the road as well as steps. It seems like a difficult task without having prior experience of mountain climbing. The question that arises in my mind is how in the old days did the revolutionaries climb without step and proper way? After crossing the temple, the traditional footpath leads up the hill.

Among the temples here, the Ram temple is quite famous. These temples work as rest sheds for the climbers. Physical rest as well mental peace is required for climbing a hill and can be obtained from this temple. Drinking water and cold breeze are the important things one should experience here.

This can be very frustrating if you don't have the habit of climbing hills. The temples and ponds in the woods are clearly visible from the top of the mountain. The surrounding area and the paddy fields look very beautiful. Cold winds over the mountains relieve the pain of climbing. The view is breathtaking with the calm cool breeze.

On the full moon day of Chaitra, the festival "Ban Bihar" is celebrated in the area. In addition, the Papanga Hills Festival is also celebrated annually by the state government's Department of Culture. The deity worshiped in the area is "Budharaja", located at the foot of the hill. Mother Samaleswari is also being worshiped here on the hill.

According to legend, Ma Samaleswari was established and worshiped by the hero Surendra Sai in the caves of the hill. The worship of Mother Samaleswari is still held at certain times of the year. According to locals, there are many miraculous, incredible and wonderful things happening here. Locals have many experiences and examples to share on such incidents.

In addition, the forest is rich in many medicinal plants. Many times a year, all these trees attract vine researchers and botanists. There is also a large mango orchard and other orchards at the foot of the hill. Many villages and settlements have been set up near. The people of the region are mainly dependent on agriculture.

This place is very important from the point of view of historical, scientific, tourism and research. Despite all these programs, the region would have developed if some additional arrangements had been made. Locals say the lights, drinking water, passenger restrooms and toilets are especially important along the all-day Pichu road. The local governments need to look into this.

Shibashish Mahapatra

shibashishmahapatra.100@gmail.com

A place called as Papakhya

କବି ଗଙ୍ଗାଧର ଲେଖିଲେ କବିତା ପାପକ୍ଷୟ ଘାଟ ନାମ,

ସୁବର୍ଣ୍ଣପୁର ସୁନା ମାଟିର କରୁଅଛି ଗୁଣ ଗାନ ।

Odisha has created a different identity because of its Culture, Tradition and Heritage. One can find the presence of History in every step.

The western part of Odisha was popularly known as South Kosala. This region was ruled by many kings. The period of the Som Dynasty is considered as the golden period. They had established their capital in many places. Subarnapur, Jajatinagari, Mursimapatana, Binitpur are few of them. The present name of the old capital Binitpur is Binka. Its history is now a mystery. After this Som Dynasty kings from the Ganga Dynasty ruled this area. They have created many heritage sites.

King from the Ganga dynasty Ananga Bhim Dev III ruled Odisha from the year 1211 to 1238. He completed the Jagannath temple work which was started by Chodaganga Dev. The region of Subarnapur- Sambalpur was under the Kalachuri dynasty. He owned this region after having a battle with the Kalachuri king. During this war many Bramhins were killed by King Ananga Bhim Dev and the King was cursed by the Bramhin. Resulting this, he found some worm in his spit. To get rid of this, he started consulting bramhins and visiting many temples. After this, he started walking towards the south side of Mahanadi.

He started walking towards the South. He was asked in his dream to build a temple in a particular distance. After passing a few days one morning after taking a bath there were no symptoms of the disease. This place is situated near the Town Binka called Papakhya. One can relate to the name.

As the king got relief from the diseases, he wanted to build a temple. He dreamt about a cow crossing the river and going to a hill. In a particular place, the cow started giving milk automatically. The king in his dream asked to build a temple in the same place.

The very next morning a black cow crossed the river. The king, along with his assistants, followed the cow. It went a little far from the Mahanadi bank. The cow went to a small hill top. Spontaneously milk fell from her breast.

In the hill top the then king Sri Ananga Udaya Bhima Dev built a temple which was dedicated to lord Shiva. Presently the temple comes under Charada village and is named Kapileswar temple. The deity of this village is Maa Charadei and a temple can be found in these Kapileswar temple premises. The temple is built in the Kalinga architectural style.

The place where the king stayed for the night is now known as Rahela. For the maintenance of the temple, the king assigned families with some land. New villages were established. To provide flowers (ଫୁଲ) to the temple village Phulmuthi was established,for the service of conch (ଶଂଖ)Sankara village was named and people from Charda are supplying sandalwood (ଚନ୍ଦନ) .

Many people from different parts of Odisha and from the neighbouring states come here. The unimaginable view of the river Mahanadi attracts many people. There are many banyan trees which give inner peace. There is a special old banyan tree which is known as a holy tree. People often pass under it to gain holiness. During the solar eclipse and Lunar eclipse it has big foot falls.

Like many other tourist attractions in Odisha, this one is also neglected. One good all weather road with proper drinking water and a passenger hault is much needed. Apart from this, the all round development should be emphasized to attract more tourists.

Shibashish Mahapatra

shibashishmahapatra.100@gmail.com