Languages Spoken in Bhubaneswar: A Comprehensive Guide

Bhubaneswar, the capital city of the Indian state of Odisha, is a vibrant and culturally rich city. Being one of the fastest-growing cities in India, it attracts people from all over the country and the world. The city has a diverse mix of people from different religions, cultures, and language backgrounds. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at the various languages spoken in Bhubaneswar.

1. Odia

Odia, also known as Oriya, is the official language of the state of Odisha. It is also the most commonly spoken language in Bhubaneswar. According to the 2011 census, more than 83% of the city’s population speaks Odia. Odia is a classical language and has a rich literary history. It is also one of the 22 scheduled languages recognized by the Government of India.

2. Hindi

Hindi, the national language of India, is spoken widely in Bhubaneswar. As the city is the capital of the state, it has a large presence of government officials and bureaucrats from different parts of India who communicate in Hindi. Hindi is also a popular medium of education and is spoken by a significant section of the population.

3. English

English is a universal language and is widely spoken in Bhubaneswar. The city has numerous educational institutions, including engineering and management colleges, where English is the medium of instruction. Moreover, the city also attracts a large number of international tourists, who speak English as their primary language.

4. Bengali

Bengali is another prevalent language spoken by a considerable section of the population in Bhubaneswar. The city has a sizable Bengali-speaking population, who have settled in the city for work or education. Bengali is a prominent language in the neighboring state of West Bengal, and its influence is evident in Bhubaneswar too.

5. Telugu

Telugu is spoken by a sizeable section of the population in Bhubaneswar, especially in the southern part of the city. Many people from the neighboring state of Andhra Pradesh have settled in Bhubaneswar, contributing to the significant Telugu-speaking population.

6. Urdu

Urdu is spoken by a small but significant section of the population in Bhubaneswar. The city has a rich Islamic heritage, and many Muslims in the city speak Urdu. Urdu is also the language of poetry, and many poets, both from India and abroad, visit Bhubaneswar regularly to participate in literary events.

7. Santali

Santali is an indigenous language spoken primarily by the tribal communities living in and around Bhubaneswar. The language has a unique script, and its speakers have a distinct culture and lifestyle. However, due to modernization and changes in lifestyle, the use of Santali has decreased in recent years.

Conclusion

Bhubaneswar is a diverse city with a rich linguistic heritage. The city has a significant Odia-speaking population, along with a mix of other regional and national languages. Understanding the languages spoken in Bhubaneswar can help tourism, education, and business-related activities in the city. As the city continues to grow, its linguistic landscape is also likely to evolve, making it even more culturally diverse and vibrant.

Languages Spoken in Bhubaneswar: A Comprehensive Travel Guide

Bhubaneswar is a city in the Eastern Indian state of Odisha. It is the state’s capital and one of its largest cities, famous for its rich cultural heritage, ancient temples, and architectural marvels. Bhubaneswar is a city that speaks multiple languages. Here’s a comprehensive travel guide for tourists visiting Bhubaneswar:

Local Attractions

Bhubaneswar is home to several ancient temples and unique architectural marvels. The city is also renowned for its museums and parks.

– Lingaraj Temple: This temple is the most famous religious site in Bhubaneswar, featuring a unique blend of Kalinga architecture and the Dravidian style. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is an architectural masterpiece.
– Udayagiri and Khandagiri Caves: Udayagiri and Khandagiri caves are famous for their Jain rock-cut caves with inscriptions that date back to the 2nd century. These caves were once the residences of Jain monks.
– Nandankanan Zoological Park: One of the largest zoological parks in India with more than 1,500 animals. Nandankanan zoo is a perfect destination for animal lovers, who can observe several rare species up close.
– Dhauli Hill: The place is famous for the mesmerizing rock edicts and pillars made by King Ashoka. It is known to mark the place where Emperor Ashoka gave up violence and embraced Buddhism.

Dining Spots

Odisha is known for its exotic cuisine and Bhubaneswar is no exception. From street food to fine dining, the city has a range of dining options that cater to all budgets.

– Dalma: It is one of the most famous restaurants in Bhubaneswar, serving authentic Oriya cuisine. Try their thali that features a variety of dishes in small quantities.
– Barbeque Nation: If you’re in the mood for some smoky grilled meat, head to Barbeque Nation. It is a popular chain of restaurants with a live grill on each table.
– Freshco: For affordable and healthy eating in a casual and comfortable atmosphere, head to Freshco. The food is mainly vegetarian but tastes amazing.
– The Zaika: The best in Indian vegetarian food, The Zaika offers a wide range of dishes, including curries, bread, and desserts.

Cultural Experiences

Bhubaneswar is a melting pot of cultures and traditions. The city has a rich history and cultural heritage.

– Odisha State Museum: The Museum is a repository of historical documents, rare manuscripts, and bronze sculptures dating from 2 BC to the 11th century.
– Mukteswara Temple: This temple is a fine example of Kalinga architecture and is famous for its intricate carvings and beautiful sculptures.
– Rajarani Temple: The temple is famous for its carvings of women in various poses, including applying makeup or reading books.
– Ekamra Haat: Ekamra Haat is a local market that features handmade products, including jewelry, clothes, and crafts.

Local History

Bhubaneswar has a rich and well-documented history, spanning more than two thousand years. The city has been a witness to several empires, including the Mauryas, Guptas, and Bhaumakaras.

– Ancient Temples: Bhubaneswar was once home to over 7000 ancient temples, of which around 500 remain today. Most of them were built between the 8th and 12th centuries.
– Kalinga War: One of the most famous battles in Indian history, the Kalinga War was fought in 261 BC between the Mauryan Empire and the King of Kalinga. The war was brutal and cost tens of thousands of lives. It was after the war that Emperor Ashoka gave up violence and embraced Buddhism.
– Odisha Architecture: One of the most recognizable features of Odisha architecture is the use of a unique honey-combed pattern, called the ‘Pidha Deul.’ It is a unique feature that is only found in Odisha.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

Bhubaneswar is a city that has a lot to discover. Here are a few off-the-beaten-path suggestions:

– Khandagiri & Udayagiri Caves: These caves are less explored by tourists and provide a peaceful atmosphere for wandering with spectacular scenery.
– Regional Plant Resource Center: Spread over 20 acres, the botanical garden is a conservatory to at least 600 rare and endangered species of plants.
– Heritage Walk: Take a walk through Old Town for an enriching experience to see the architecture of the old buildings and experience the locals living and working.
– Deras Dam Lake: Located a few kilometers away from Bhubaneswar, this lake is a peaceful and beautiful place to go for picnics, boat rides, and even water sports.

In conclusion, Bhubaneswar is a phenomenal city that’s a melting pot of cultures and traditions. If you’re planning a visit, it’s important to note that the city speaks multiple languages, so a little research on the local languages might prove useful. With a rich cultural heritage, ancient temples, and architectural marvels, there’s so much to discover. Use this insider’s guide for an unforgettable trip, with local attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions.