Bhubaneswar emerged upon the political scene of modern India only in 1949, when it took over as the capital of the state of Orissa (now Odisha) from Cuttack. The new capital was developed around the old Bhubaneswar town, and designed by the German architect Otto Konigsberger. The old town of Bhubaneswar showcases an illustrious and unbroken heritage of more than 2,500 years, exhibited by its magnificent monuments and temples.
Religious texts and literature refer to Bhubaneswar as Ekamra, named so because of a sacred mango tree at the site. It is said that when Shiva retired from Varanasi in Treta Yuga, he took abode at Bhubaneswar. Historian Rajendralal Mitra says that nothing was omitted in the way of detail to make Bhubaneswar the exact counterpart of its prototype (Varanasi). Every temple, every sacred pool, every rivulet, every ceremonial, every observance and every legend of Varanasi were reproduced at Bhubaneswar. Brahma Purana tells us that Ekamra Kshetra is dedicated to Lord
Twin hills set for facelift
Tourism dept floats tender for preparation of an integrated master plan to transform Khandagiri-Udayagiri into a world-class tourist site Post News Network
Bhubaneswar: In order to attract more tourists to Khandagiri & Udaygiri caves, the state government has decided to upgrade the infrastructure of the site in the state capital.
The Tourism department has issued a tender for preparation of an integrated heritage and tourism master plan for development of Khandagiri-Udayagiri into a world-class tourist attraction with ultramodern features, amenities and attractions.
The Khandagiri-Udayagiri area is witnessing footfall of over 3 lakh tourists every year. Due to huge influx, the monument and its surroundings have been heavily damaged in recent years. Besides, the presence of active traffic in between twin hills is a major cause for concern for people. Hence, the department has decided to develop the area, sources said.