Odisha Restores 64 Colonial-Era Place Names to Authentic Odia Phonetic Spellings Across 26 Districts

The Odisha government has approved a major administrative decision to revise the English spellings of 64 place names across 26 districts, restoring what officials described as their original Odia phonetic forms. The move, cleared by the state cabinet on Friday, is aimed at correcting colonial-era distortions and aligning official spellings with linguistic and cultural identity.

According to Chief Secretary Anu Garg, the revised spellings are intended to reflect accurate Odia pronunciation and preserve the state’s linguistic heritage. The government stated that many existing English spellings were introduced during the colonial period and do not accurately represent the original Odia names used locally.

Under the revised list, several prominent place names will see updated spellings. Cuttack will now be officially written as “Kataka,” Balasore as “Baleshwar,” Berhampur as “Brahmapur,” Angul as “Anugola,” Deogarh as “Debagada,” and Keonjhar as “Kendujhar.” Similarly, Jeypore will be spelled as “Jayapur,” and Aul will be represented as “Aali,” among other changes across the state.

Also Read: Public Toilets Are Government Responsibility, Says Andhra Pradesh High Court

Officials said the decision is part of a broader effort to reinforce “Odia Asmita,” or Odia identity, which has been a key cultural and political theme in the state. The announcement also coincided with the completion of two years of the current BJP-led government in Odisha, adding political significance to the cabinet decision.

The government has directed departments concerned to begin implementing the changes in official records, maps, and signage across the affected districts. Authorities also indicated that coordination will be required with central agencies and institutions to ensure uniform adoption of the revised spellings in administrative usage.

The state administration clarified that while the names are being standardized in English spelling, the local pronunciations and usage in Odia remain unchanged. Officials added that the exercise is intended to reduce inconsistencies in documentation and strengthen cultural representation in official communication going forward.

Also Read: Severe Thunderstorm Batters Delhi-NCR as IMD Issues Red Alert for 100 kmph Wind Gusts