Odisha Govt Launches Drive to Restore Authentic Odia Place Names
The Odisha government has initiated a statewide campaign to restore authentic Odia names of places by correcting distortions introduced during colonial rule.
Additional Chief Secretary Dr Arabinda Kumar Padhee has directed all district collectors to submit detailed proposals within seven days, covering districts, headquarters, subdivisions, blocks, and tehsils where English transliterations misrepresent Odia pronunciation and cultural identity.
Reports from 13 districts have already been submitted, and public opinions from legislators, MPs, and citizens will also be considered.
Examples of proposed corrections include AUL to Ali/Aali, Khurda to Khoradha, Balasore to Baleshwar, and Keonjhar to Kendujhar.
The initiative aims to preserve Odisha’s linguistic and cultural heritage, reinforce cultural identity, and eliminate distortions introduced during British rule.
Collectors have been urged to expedite reviews so recommendations can be finalised quickly.
