Context

On April 1, Odisha Day, or Utkala Dibasa, is celebrated to commemorate the formation of the state of Odisha.

Utkal Divas History

• Utkal Divas, also known as Odisha Day, is celebrated annually to mark the formation of the state of Odisha on April 1, 1936.
• The new province of Odisha was formed after people’s continued struggle, which finally paid off on April 1, 1936.
• This day marks the separation of Odisha from the combined Bihar and Orissa province during British rule in India.
• Sir John Hubbak was the first governor of the state.
• The state was originally called Orissa but the Lok Sabha passed the Orissa Bill, and Constitution Bill (113rd amendment), in March 2011 to rename it Odisha.
• Odisha Day, also known as Vishuva Milan, is observed as a restricted holiday in the state.