Bhubaneswar: The capital of Odisha, Bhubaneswar, is celebrating its 78th Foundation Day with festive grandeur, resembling a radiant bride. The city’s main squares and the boulevard from Lok Seva Bhawan to the Legislative Assembly are illuminated with a dazzling array of multicolored lights, enchanting both proud residents and visitors alike.

While the city and its temples have a much longer history, the foundation for the modern capital was established on this day in 1948.

To commemorate this significant milestone, a variety of official and cultural events have been organized throughout the capital. A ‘Rajdhani Mahotsav’ has been integrated into the city’s essence, celebrating its vibrant spirit. The most notable celebration takes place at the Odisha Legislative Assembly, where esteemed dignitaries and dedicated citizens come together in unity to honor and celebrate this momentous occasion.

“On the 78th Capital Foundation Day, we celebrate Bhubaneswar — the heart of Odisha’s identity and progress. From its historic roots to its modern aspirations, this city embodies resilience, culture, and innovation. I take pride in honoring the visionaries who shaped our capital and the people whose spirit continues to drive its growth. May Bhubaneswar keep shining as a beacon of heritage and development for generations to come,” posted Odisha Deputy Chief Minister K V Singh Deo on social media.

Here are some historical facts about Odisha’s capital and its remarkable evolution from a temple city to a modern metropolis:

• India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, laid the foundation stone of Bhubaneswar on April 13, 1948.
• The masterplan for Bhubaneswar was created by German architect Otto Königsberger in 1948 for a population of 40,000. It is one of the first four planned cities in India. Today, it is home to over 1.4 million people.
• Bhubaneswar has a history spanning 3,000 years, beginning with the Mahamegha-Bahana Chedi dynasty, which had Sisupalgarh as its capital.
• The name Bhubaneswar is derived from Tribhubaneswar, meaning the Lord (Eswar) of the Three Worlds (Tribhuvan), a reference to Shiva.
• The city is also known as Toshali, Kalinga Nagari, Ekamra Kanan, Ekamra Kshetra, and Mandira Malini Nagari, highlighting its cultural and historical importance.
• Bhubaneswar was once home to nearly 700 temples, and many of these ancient structures still stand today.
• The Kalinga War, one of the most significant conflicts in Indian history, occurred on the Dhauli hills along the Daya River. According to his 13th Major Rock Edict, Emperor Ashoka expressed deep sorrow for the violence and loss of life during the conquest of Kalinga, leading him to build the Dhauli Stupa as a symbol of his commitment to Buddhism and peace.
• In 1948, just a year after India gained independence, Bhubaneswar became the capital of Odisha, replacing Cuttack.