Explanation: The capital of Odisha, formerly known as Orrissa, is Bhubaneshwar. This city is located in the eastern part of India and is the administrative, economic, and cultural hub of the state. Bhubaneshwar is renowned for its rich historical and cultural heritage, particularly its numerous ancient temples and monuments.
Understanding the capitals of Indian states is a fundamental aspect of general knowledge, especially for students preparing for competitive examinations such as the UPSC, SSC, State PSC, and Bank PO. Each state in India has a unique capital, and it is important to distinguish between them to avoid confusion.
Bhubaneshwar, as the capital of Odisha, holds significant historical and cultural importance. The city is known for its architectural marvels, including the Lingaraja Temple, which is a prime example of Kalinga architecture. The city's name, "Bhubaneshwar," translates to "Lord of the Universe," reflecting its spiritual and cultural significance.
It is important to note that Odisha was formerly known as Orrissa, and this name change can sometimes lead to confusion. The state government officially changed the name from Orrissa to Odisha in 2011 to reflect the local pronunciation and cultural identity.
In summary, Bhubaneshwar is the correct capital of Odisha, and it is essential to remember this fact for general knowledge and competitive examinations. The other options provided—Lucknow, Gandhinagar, and Panaji—are the capitals of Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, and Goa, respectively, and should not be confused with the capital of Odisha.