Bhadrak is a district of Odisha state in eastern India. Bhadrak city is the headquarters and the largest city of the district.
Origin of name
The district is named after Bhadrakali, a deity in Hinduism, whose temple is situated on bank of Salandi river, 8km distant from the Bhadrak city.[2]
History
Bhadrak District, located in the Indian state of Odisha, boasts a rich historical legacy dating back to the era of the Puranas, a period marked by flourishing maritime and agricultural prosperity in the region. One notable chapter in its history occurred at Rakta Tirtha Eram in Basudevpur, where a tragic incident unfolded during the struggle for independence. Under the leadership of DSP Kunjabihari Mohanty, British police forces were responsible for the loss of approximately 30 lives, including that of a prominent figure named Pari Bewa.
In the annals of Bhadrak's history, King Mukunda Dev stands as the final indigenous sovereign ruler of the region. However, after the year 1575, following the defeat of the Afghans by Raja Man Singh during the Mughal period, Bhadrak District underwent a transformation. It transitioned into a Subha and subsequently fell under the governance of the Nawabs of Bengal as the Mughals exerted their influence over the political landscape of Bhadrak.
Over time, Bhadrak District came under Maratha rule until the British Empire extended its dominion across the entirety of Odisha. This historical progression underscores the diverse and complex tapestry of Bhadrak's past, characterized by shifts in governance and significant events that left lasting imprints on the region's identity and heritage.[3]
Following its attainment of independence, the history of Bhadrak has been marked by a multifaceted journey of progress across various sectors, encompassing Education, Industry, Agriculture, Trade, and Commerce. With the emergence of new opportunities and the advent of promising developments, Bhadrak has propelled itself towards the twenty-first century with a sense of optimism and the potential for further advancement. This forward trajectory reflects the region's commitment to growth and its aspirations for a prosperous future.[4]
Bhadrak District boasts a wealth of historical sites and monuments, inviting visitors to explore its rich heritage. Among these, Palia stands out as the renowned location of the Biranchi Narayan Temple,[5] while the Sri Radha Madanmohan Temple ranks as one of the district's most frequented religious sites.[6] Notably, Aradi, situated just 10 kilometers from Chandabali, is celebrated for its Akhandalamani Temple. Chandabali, historically significant as the first port established in Odisha, adds another layer of intrigue to the region's cultural and historical tapestry. These sites collectively contribute to the district's allure for travelers and history enthusiasts alike.
On 1 April 1993, the Bhadrak District was established as an independent administrative entity, having been carved out from the Balasore District. This significant administrative change marked the district's emergence as a distinct and separate region within the state of Odisha, India.[3]
Agriculture is one of the main source of income for the district. Also many people in the coastal area, from Dhamara of Chandbali Block to Padhuan of Basudevpur Block, depend on upon Fishing and marine services. The major fishing harbors are located at Dhamara, Kasia & Chudamani. Many people are also involved in business and service sector.[8]
Tourist places
Bhadrak has a special identity for ERAM VILLAGE which is known as "2ND JALIANAWALABAGH". It is 07 km from Basudevpur. A memorial was built for the martyrs of Eram massacre.[9]
Akhandalamani Temple is on the bank of river Baitarani, the Akhandalamani Temple is the abode of Lord Shiva. The Patana Mangala ( Lankeswari ) in Chatrapada village is famous for Mangala temple with the biggest pond of Odisha. Chief interest of the place is its legendary history. As the history runs, king Niladri Samara Singha Mohapatra started worshipping the God Akhandalamani some 350 years ago, when the black glazed granite stone was found underground and the king dreamt of the god. However the religious and historical significance with which the place is invested, constitute it to be a center of special interest in the tourism of Bhadrak. Moreover, the artistic carvings of the temple deserve special worth to the tourist. Surrounding the temple many fairs and festivals are organized, the chief among which is the Mahashivaratri. During this festival, tourists, including a vast chunk of pilgrims, flock into the core of the temple. On the month of Sravana, people from nationwide assemble here to pour the holy water on the Siva Linga and to offer their worship to Lord Shiva. The Akhandalamani Temple is the principal source of the profitable development of the tourism industry of Bhadrak.
Dhamra Port is an ancient port on the banks of the river Baitarani, around 5 km from Kanika Palace. The highlights are the direction tower and some ancient structures.
Jagannath Temple :- Nilok This is a sacred place of Hindus (Vaisava).
The BIRANCHINARAYAN Temple (Lord Brahmha) is one of the most ancient temple of Odisha in PALIA village that have a distance of 13 km from Bhadrak in Bhadrak-Chandbali route. Every year between January – February (In Odia Magha Masa from the date of Magha Purnima/Aghira purnima/Agni utshav Purnima) a Three day Mela is observed around the temple. This the best time to visit the temple for Picnic or for Puja.
It is well known for its famous kalipuja in the Bhadrak city.
Transport
Bhadrak railway station is the biggest railway station of Bhadrak district and serves Bhadrak city. An important upcoming town in Bhadrak district is Dhamara, which is upcoming newly built mega-port of the district. New railway line from Bhadrak to Dhamra is constructed.
Dhamra Airport is proposed to be built by the Dhamra Port Company Limited, 20 km from Dhamra Port[10]
Also Chennai- Kolkata NH-16, State Highway 35, 53 and 57 pass through Bhadrak district, and also connect with NH-316A with Dhamara
According to the 2011 census Bhadrak district has a population of 1,506,337,[13] roughly equal to the nation of Gabon[14] or the US state of Hawaii.[15] This gives it a ranking of 332nd in India (out of a total of 640).[13] The district has a population density of 601 inhabitants per square kilometre (1,560/sq mi) .[13] Its population growth rate over the decade 2001–2011 was 12.95%.[13] Bhadrak has a sex ratio of 981 females for every 1000 males,[13] and a literacy rate of 83.25%. 12.34% of the population lives in urban areas. Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes make up 22.23% and 2.02% of the population respectively.[13]
Bhadrak is famous for Bhadrakali Temple, which is also now a great occasion over the district.
Betada is a place of Basudevpur block is also famous for Odisha's 2nd largest Goddess Lakshmi Puja after 1st Dhenkanal district. This place is 5 km from Basudevpur of bhadrak.
Nalanga, a village in Gelpur Panchayat is famous for Lord Naleswar (Shiva). The Naleswar Temple is one of the oldest temples in Odisha. Nalanga is the birthplace of Lokakavi Jagannath Pani, the teacher of Baishnav Pani.
Kharida Binayakpur is another village in Basudevpur constituency of this district is famous for Maa Ankudeswari Temple and its Moha vishuba Sankranti, Ravan Podi during Durga puja also famous in this village.
Brahmangan, another village in Basudevpur constituency of this district is famous for its century-old Prasanna Khemeswar mahadeva temple and its melana jatra during Holi. Durga puja & Jagar also famous in this village.
Biggest Pond in Odisha and Famous Maa Patana Mangala Temple (Chhatrapada) is about 38.0 km (43 min) away from Bhadrak.
Banta, Basantia, Basudebpur blocks & villages respectively in which village various melas are organised in various days of the year out of which Panchuka Purnima which is celebrating in a very great fun of people in which boat is sailed in the big pond of Basantia village in the memories of Odia Sadhabas, who was going to make their business in the near islands like Java and Borneo, Indonesia for too many days.
Pirahat, the place in Tihidi block is historical and cultural area which is famous for Durga puja, Kali puja, and other festivals. Durga Puja of the village Barabatia completing 400 years shows the greatness of place. Many freedom fighters are also born in Pirahat. The Gandhi statue at Pirhat Kali Padia is the emblem of freedom fighters.
Notable people
Laxmikanta Mohapatra (1888–1953), poet, writer, nationalist from Talapada, Tihidi
Bhadrak district has been doing good in every consideration. A new palace type collectorate is constructed and being in service since 2016. The roads and environment is so clean to eyes. It has a large bus stand near Dakshinkali Temple and by NH-16.Every types of modern malls are there. It is the city of brotherhood between Hindu and Muslims. Both celebrate their ceremonies together with each other. In Puruna Bazaar there Budha Ganesh puja is celebrated by both Hindus and Muslims. It has Bhadrak autonomous college, which is soon going to be a university. New medical site is being started construction having 100 nursing training seats. It has been declared as the first nectar city of Odisha. It has Dhamara port which is so large and going to be the largest port in Asia. A polytechnic university is going to be started soon.
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