Odisha government proposes English spelling changes for 24 locations including Khurda, Balasore and Keonjhar to restore authentic Odia linguistic and cultural identity
OdishaPlus Bureau
The government of Odisha has suggested modifications to the English spellings of the names of 24 locations throughout the state, including the district name Khurda, which could be altered to ‘Khoradha’ if the proposal is approved.
In a public announcement made on February 4, the state administration indicated that this initiative aims to restore the authentic Odia names of these locations and to ensure that official records accurately represent Odisha’s linguistic, historical, and cultural heritage.
Significant proposed alterations include changing Balasore to Baleshwar, Keonjhar to Kendujhar, and Khondmal to Kandhamal.
Deogarh may be modified to Debagarh, Angul to Anugol, Nayagarh to Nayagada, and Rairakhol to Redhakhol. Likewise, Kendrapara is suggested to be written as Kendrapada, while Keonjhargarh may be renamed Kendujhargarh.
The government has requested feedback and suggestions from the public and other interested parties within 15 days from the date of the notice’s publication. Responses should be submitted in writing along with any supporting documentation.
The notice clarifies that any objections received after the deadline will not be taken into account. If no objections are submitted within the specified timeframe, the government may proceed with the proposed changes in accordance with the law.
If these changes are enacted, the updated spellings will be reflected in official records, maps, and government communications throughout the state.
Proposed changes:
Podia → Padia
Deogarh → Debagarh
Reamal → Riamal
Khondmal → Kandhamal
Khurda → Khoradha
Bolagarh → Bolagada
Banpur → Banapur
Jatni → Jatani
Angul → Anugol
Pallahara → Palalahada
Athagarh → Athagad
Salipur → Salepur
Baramba → Badamba
Balasore → Baleshwar
Nilgiri → Nilagiri
Aul → Ali
Kendrapara → Kendrapada
Makalapara → Mahakalapada
Keonjhar → Kendujhar
Barbil → Badbil
Keonjhargarh → Kendujhargarh
Rairakhol → Redhakhol
Nayagarh → Nayagada
Daspalla → Dashapalla