Exploring Ancient Odisha

Odisha in ancient times had a glorious history. The great dynasties of this land like the Chedis, Bhauma-Karas and Somavamsis had played vital role for the stabilization of administration. Asoka, Kharavela, Yayati II and other rulers brought peace and tranquility to the land. They issued several inscriptions depicting their glory, patronage to different religious faiths and donation of lands to Brahmins and others. They also created archite ctural splendours by building palaces, monasteries, temples and shrines. This volume titled Exploring Ancient Odisha : Essays Unveiling History and Culture is a collection of articles of scholars which have already been found place in the proceedings of the Odisha History Congress and Orissa History Congress Journal. It is a noble endeavour on the part of the editor to acquaint the present scholars and researchers on the history and culture of Odisha with the research done on ancient Odishan history in the past. I hope that the OHC will go a long way in publishing such volumes in every year to inspire the young scholars and researchers. Baba Mishra and Ranvir Singh in their article “Early Historic Podagad : Revisited” have discussed the archaeology and history associated with it. Podagad is in the Umarkot Tehsil of Nowrangpur district. The ruin exposes the platform of stone and scattered images of Bhairava, Vrisava (bull), Ganesh, linga without Sakti etc. and also the potteries, brickbats, tiles, terracotta objects and sati memorial stones. Semi precious stone beads, terracotta bangles, stone missiles and the plinth of the house etc. are also found. Epigraphic source of the Nalas purports the layout of garden and park in various sectors of the city. Among other archaeological remains fortification, gateway, temple art and architecture including cult images and secular sculptures are found. The article projects that around 5th century C.E. Podagad exhibited early historic organisation.