Odisha government proposes renaming of 24 places to restore original Odia identity

Bhubaneswar (By Abhishek Mohanty): 
The Odisha government has proposed changes to the English spellings of 24 place names across the state, including Khurda, Balasore and Keonjhar, in an effort to restore their original Odia linguistic and cultural identity.

In a notification, the state government said the proposed changes aim to ensure that official records correctly reflect the Odia pronunciation, historical background and cultural heritage of these locations.

As per the proposal, Khurda may be renamed Khoradha, Balasore to Baleshwar, Keonjhar to Kendujhar, and Khondmal to Kandhamal. Deogarh is proposed to be changed to Debagarh, Angul to Anugol, Nayagarh to Nayagada, and Rairakhol to Redhakhol.

Similarly, Kendrapara may be written as Kendrapada, while Keonjhargarh is proposed to be renamed Kendujhargarh.

The government has invited objections and suggestions from the public and stakeholders within 15 days from the date of publication of the notice. 

Submissions must be made in writing along with relevant supporting documents.

The notification states that objections received after the deadline will not be entertained. If no objections are received within the stipulated period, the government may proceed with implementing the proposed changes in accordance with the law.

Once approved, the revised spellings will be reflected in official records, maps and all government communications.