Last Updated:April 01, 2025, 06:30 IST

Utkal Divas, also known as Odisha Foundation Day, is celebrated on April 1 to commemorate the formation of Odisha as an independent state in 1936.

Happy Odisha Day 2025: Utkal Divas, also called Odisha Foundation Day, is observed on April 1 to honour the establishment of Odisha as a separate state in 1936. The day reflects the relentless efforts of the Odia people to secure a distinct identity rooted in their language and cultural heritage.

Utkal Divas History 

Before gaining statehood in 1936, Odisha was a part of the Bengal Presidency, along with Bihar and Jharkhand. The movement for a separate state for Odia-speaking people gained momentum in the early 20th century, driven by a strong desire to preserve Odisha’s distinct language, culture and identity.

Under the leadership of prominent figures like Madhusudan Das, Utkalmani Gopabandhu Das and Fakir Mohan Senapati, the demand for a separate province was finally acknowledged.

On April 1, 1936, the British Government officially carved Odisha out of the Bihar and Orissa Province, granting it independent administrative status. This historic milestone marked Odisha as the first Indian state to be formed on a linguistic basis. Today, this significant achievement is commemorated annually as Odisha Foundation Day (Utkal Divas).

Significance of Utkal Divas

Utkal Divas is a day of pride and remembrance for the people of Odisha, celebrating their rich heritage, resilience and the sacrifices made by their leaders. The day is marked with cultural programs, parades, competitions and tributes to the freedom fighters and pioneers who contributed to Odisha’s formation.

Happy Utkal Divas Wishes

• Happy Utkal Divas! May the rich culture, heritage and traditions of Odisha continue to shine and inspire generations to come.
• Wishing everyone a joyous Odisha Day! May our state prosper with peace, unity and endless growth opportunities.
• On this special day, let’s celebrate the spirit of Odisha—its history, art and the resilience of its people. Happy Utkal Divas!
• May the beauty of Odisha’s culture, language and traditions flourish forever. Wishing you a proud and happy Utkal Divas!
• Let’s honour the great leaders and visionaries who fought for Odisha’s identity. Happy Odisha Foundation Day!
• Wishing all Odias across the world a Happy Utkal Divas! May our state continue to progress and inspire!
• May the spirit of Utkal Divas fill our hearts with pride and gratitude for our great land. Jai Jagannath!
• Let’s cherish our glorious past and work towards a brighter future for Odisha. Wishing you a prosperous Utkal Divas!
• Happy Odisha Day! May our land of temples, art and tradition always be blessed with peace and success.
• Proud to be an Odia! On this Utkal Divas, let’s promise to preserve and promote our rich heritage for generations to come.

Utkal Divas 2025 Messages

• Wishing you a very Happy Utkal Divas! May Odisha continue to flourish with prosperity, peace and progress.
• Happy Odisha Day! Let’s celebrate the glorious history, rich culture and vibrant traditions of our beloved state.
• On this Utkal Divas, let’s honour the sacrifices of our leaders and work towards a brighter future for Odisha.
• I wish all Odias a joyous Utkal Divas! May our state achieve new heights of success and development.
• Happy Utkal Divas! Let’s take pride in our heritage and contribute towards a stronger and more prosperous Odisha.
• On this special day, let’s celebrate the spirit of Odisha and the remarkable journey of our land. Best wishes on Utkal Divas!
• Warm greetings on Odisha Day! May our culture, language and traditions continue to inspire generations.
• Happy Utkal Divas! Let’s cherish our roots and work together for the growth and glory of our beloved Odisha.
• Best wishes on Utkal Divas! May our land of temples, art and history always shine with pride and glory.
• Wishing you a wonderful Utkal Divas! Let’s celebrate Odisha’s rich legacy and strive for a brighter future.

5 Odia Dishes You Must Try

1. Dalma: This wholesome dish combines lentils and seasonal vegetables, simmered with aromatic spices and finished with a drizzle of ghee. A staple in Odia households, it is both nutritious and delicious.
2. Chungdi Malai: If you love seafood, this dish is a must-try! Succulent prawns are cooked in a luscious coconut milk gravy, infused with mild spices to create a creamy, flavorful delight.
3. Chhena Poda: Often called Odisha’s signature dessert, this baked delicacy is made from fresh cottage cheese, caramelised sugar and a hint of cardamom. The result is a smoky, sweet treat with a rich texture.
4. Rasabali: Deep-fried paneer patties soaked in thickened, saffron-flavoured milk make this dessert truly indulgent. Originating from Odisha’s temple kitchens, it is a favourite among sweet lovers.
5. Macha Ghanta: A unique preparation where fish head is slow-cooked with potatoes, lentils and a blend of traditional spices. This savoury dish is a festive essential in Odia cuisine.

Location :

Odisha (Orissa), India, India