Utkal Divas 2026, also known as Odisha Day or Odisha Foundation Day, is celebrated every year on April 1 to mark the formation of Odisha as a separate state in 1936. Utkal Divas 2026 celebrates the formation of Odisha as a separate province on 1 April 1936, honouring the efforts of visionary leaders who preserved the state’s language and culture. The table below provides an overview of the event, its historical significance, and the key highlights of the celebration. The history of Odisha is a saga of ancient glory and colonial struggle. In ancient times, the region was known as Kalinga, a powerful maritime empire. The 261 BC Kalinga War was a turning point in world history, leading Emperor Ashoka to embrace Buddhism and peace. After the fall of the last independent king, Mukunda Deva, in 1568, Odisha was ruled by the Mughals, Marathas, and eventually the British. Under British rule, Odia-speaking territories were fragmented and merged into the Bengal, Madras, and Central Provinces. This led to a fear of the Odia language and culture being overshadowed by neighbouring regional languages. Utkal Sammilani Founded by Madhusudan Das in 1903, this organization spearheaded the campaign for a united Odisha. Visionary leaders argued that a separate province was essential to preserve the rich literary and artistic heritage of the Odia people. It is a day to pay homage to leaders like Utkala Gouraba Madhusudan Das and Utkala Mani Gopabandhu Das. The celebrations foster a sense of brotherhood among Odias worldwide, transcending social and economic barriers. It highlights Odisha’s unique contributions to India, including its classical Odissi dance, Pattachitra art, and magnificent temple architecture like the Konark Sun Temple. Traditional folk dances like Dalkhai and Sambalpuri, along with Odissi performances, are organized across the state. Families and communities feast on authentic Odia delicacies such as Pakhala (fermented rice), Dahibara Aloo Dum, and the iconic Chhena Poda. Major cities like Bhubaneswar and Cuttack witness spectacular fireworks displays and colourful tableaus (Jhankis). Schools and colleges conduct Utkal Divas essays, speeches, and quiz competitions to educate the youth about the state’s glorious past. The state was officially renamed from “Orissa” to “Odisha” in 2011, and the language from “Oriya” to “Odia“.It is home to Chilika Lake, Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon, and Simlipal National Park, a major biosphere reserve.
Dr Rabindra narayan Behera,MP Jajpur; Happy Utkal Diwas! May the pride of Odisha’s heritage continue to inspire and guide us toward a brighter future.
Amar kumar Nayak,MLA Badachana; Wishing everyone a joyful and prosperous Utkal Diwas. Let’s celebrate the rich culture and history of Odisha!
Akash das Nayak,MLA,Korei; On this auspicious occasion of Utkal Diwas, let’s honor the spirit of unity, strength, and the vibrant culture of Odisha. Happy Utkal Diwas!
Himanshu sekhar Sahoo,MLA,Dharmasala; As we celebrate Utkal Diwas, let us remember the sacrifices made for the formation of Odisha, and honor its rich cultural heritage. Wishing you all a day filled with pride and joy.
Dr Suresh Chandra Dalei ;May the legacy of Utkal Diwas bring new hopes, success, and prosperity to all. Happy celebrations to every Odia!
Writer Taraprasad Mishra; On the occasion of Utkal Diwas, let’s come together and celebrate the unity, strength, and beauty of Odisha. May we always be inspired by the spirit of our ancestors.
Amber kumar Kar,Collector Jajpur; Happy Utkal Diwas! May this day strengthen the bond of love, pride, and unity among all Odias across the world.
Yashpratap Shrimal,SP,Jajpur; Utkal Diwas is a day to celebrate the vibrant culture, language, and heritage of Odisha. Let’s cherish this moment and continue to contribute to the progress of our state and nation.
Eng Komal kumar Swain; Happy Utkal Diwas to all Odias! May our state continue to thrive, and our rich culture remain a beacon of inspiration for generations to come.
Writer Jayaprakash Nayak; Wishing all the people of Odisha a blessed Utkal Diwas. Let’s unite in celebrating our state’s glorious past and promising future!
Pulin Puhan, Bjp Leader ; Greetings on Utkal Diwas! May the spirit of Odisha continue to shine brightly, lighting the path of progress and unity.
Manas kumar Tripathy,OAS; A heartfelt greeting on this Utkal Diwas! Let us come together to celebrate the pride and prosperity of Odisha.
Sanjeeb kumar Jena,Social Worker ; Utkal Diwas reminds us of the strength and unity of Odisha, a state built on courage, culture, and rich heritage.
Sarat Chandra Patra,Police Officer; Let’s celebrate the pride of Odisha and the countless contributions it has made to India’s heritage on this Utkal Diwas.
Chinmayee Sahoo,Police Officer; The heart of Odisha beats with the rhythm of its culture, and on Utkal Diwas, we salute this enduring spirit of pride.
Anshumala Das,Police Officer; From the land of temples to the shores of golden beaches, Utkal Diwas is a reminder of Odisha’s timeless beauty and strength.
Zahar Abbedin,Police Officer; “Happy Utkal Diwas to all my fellow Odias! On this special day, let’s resolve to build a stronger and more prosperous Odisha.”
Chintamani Padhi,Journalist; “Wishing everyone a joyous and happy Utkala Dibasa! Let’s celebrate the spirit of our land—a land of temples, art, and timeless culture.
Sanjay kumar Mishra,Journalist; “On this foundation day of our state, let us commemorate the struggle and achievements that define us. Happy Utkal Divas!”
Pradip kumar Parida,Youth Leader; Wishing you a joyous Utkal Dibasa filled with love, happiness, and prosperity. Let’s celebrate the beauty of Odisha together!
Jitendra Rout,Youth leader; Happy Utkal Dibasa! May the spirit of Odisha’s rich culture and heritage fill your heart with pride and joy.
Rajesh kumar Pal,Youth Leader; Happy Utkal Dibasa to all! May the spirit of Odia unity and resilience shine bright on this auspicious occasion.
Sribachha Dhir,Youth Leader; Celebrate Utkal Dibasa with a heart full of gratitude for the blessings of Odisha’s natural beauty, traditions, and Value.
Abhisek Rout,Youth Leader; On this Utkal Dibasa, let’s renew our commitment to preserve and promote the cultural diversity and richness of Odisha.
Goutam kumar Sahoo,Youth Ledaer; Happy Utkal Dibasa! May the colors of Odisha’s festivals and traditions illuminate your life with happiness and prosperity.
Rachita Mishra,Writer; Warm wishes on Utkal Dibasa! May the bond of love and togetherness among Odias around the world grow stronger each day.