Odisha, located on India’s eastern coast, boasts a rich history dating back to ancient times. Known as Kalinga in historical records, it gained prominence during the Kalinga War (261 BCE), which led Emperor Ashoka to embrace Buddhism. The region flourished under the rule of the Eastern Ganga and Gajapati dynasties, known for their architectural marvels like the Konark Sun Temple and Jagannath Temple in Puri. Odisha played a significant role in maritime trade with Southeast Asia, contributing to its economic and cultural prosperity.
The state witnessed the spread of Jainism, Buddhism, Shaivism, and Vaishnavism, leaving a legacy of art, literature, and sculpture. During the colonial era, Odisha became part of British India and was later reorganized as a separate state in 1936. The state’s vibrant festivals, traditional Odissi dance, and ancient monuments reflect its historical significance and cultural heritage, making it integral to India’s historical narrative.
- Unit-I
- Sources of Ancient History of Odisha: Literary Sources, Foreign Accounts, Inscriptions, Coins, Material Remains, Madala Panji
- Historical Geography: Kalinga, Utkala, Odra, Tosali, Kangoda and Kosala
- Kalinga War- Causes and Result
- Unit-II
- The Mahameghavahanas: Career and achievements of Kharavela Time of his rule
- Rise of local dynasties: Matharas, Sailodbhavas and early eastern Ganga
- The Bhaumakaras- Origin, Chronology and Administration
- Unit-III
- The Somavamsis- Early History- dynastic history and achievements of rulers: cultural significance of the Somavamsi Rule.
- The Ganga- Sources, Political History, (Anantavarman Chodagangadeva, Anangabhimadeva and Narasimhadeva I)
- Ganga Administration
- Cultural significance of the Ganga rule
- Unit-IV
- Unit-I
- British Occupation of Odisha
- British Administration of Odisha: Land Revenue Settlements,administration of Justice
- Economic Development- Agriculture and Industry, Trade and Commerce
- Unit-II
- Resistance Movements in the 19th century- Khurda rising of 1804-05, Paik rebellion of 1817
- Odisha during the revolt of 1857- role of Surendra Sai
- Tribal uprising- Ghumsar Rising under Dara Bisoi, Khond Rising under Chakra Bisoi, Bhuyan Rising Under Ratna Naik and Dharani Dhar Naik
- Unit-III
- Growth of Modern Education, Growth of Press and Journalism
- Natural Calamities in Odisha, Famine of 1866- its causes and effect
- Social and Cultural changes in the 19th Century Odisha
- Mahima Dharma
- Unit-IV
- Oriya Movement: Growth of Socio-Political Associations, Growth of Public Associations in the 19th Century, Role of Utkal Sammilini (1903-1920)
- Nationalist Movement in Odisha: Non-Cooperation and Civil Disobedience Movements in Odisha
- Creation of Separate province, Non-Congress and Congress Ministries( 1937-1947)
- Quit India Movement
- British relation with Princely States of Odisha and Prajamandal Movement and Merger of the States