3,932 km²
14
373
1993
Cuttack is one of the oldest and most historically significant districts of Odisha. Situated in Eastern Odisha between the Mahanadi and Kathajodi rivers, it served as the capital of Odisha for several centuries before Bhubaneswar became the capital in 1948. Today, Cuttack remains an important educational, judicial, cultural, and commercial center of the state.
The history of Cuttack dates back to 989 CE when King Nrupa Keshari of the Somavamsi dynasty established a military settlement known as Kataka. The term "Kataka" later evolved into "Cuttack." Over the centuries, the city flourished under the Ganga, Gajapati, Mughal, Maratha, and British administrations. Because of its strategic location, it became one of eastern India's most important political and military centers.
For nearly a thousand years, Cuttack played a major role in shaping Odisha's administration, trade, and culture. The historic Barabati Fort stands as a reminder of this glorious past.
Cuttack lies in the coastal plains of Eastern Odisha and is surrounded by rivers, making it one of the most fertile regions of the state. The district shares boundaries with Jajpur, Dhenkanal, Khordha, Jagatsinghpur, and Kendrapara districts. Its river network has historically supported agriculture, trade, and transportation.
Cuttack is popularly known as the Silver City of India due to its internationally recognized silver filigree craftsmanship known as Tara Kasi. The district is also famous as the birthplace of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, for its grand Durga Puja celebrations, Barabati Stadium, and its contribution to Odia literature and education.
The culinary identity of Cuttack is strongly associated with Dahibara Aloodum, a popular street food enjoyed across Odisha. Other famous delicacies include Chhena Gaja, Rasabali, Bara Ghuguni, Chaat, and traditional sweets prepared during festivals and religious occasions.
The most celebrated art form of Cuttack is Tara Kasi, a delicate silver filigree craft that has been practiced for centuries. Skilled artisans create jewelry, decorative pieces, and religious artifacts using fine silver wires. This art form represents one of Odisha's most valuable cultural traditions.
Agriculture remains a major occupation in rural Cuttack. The fertile alluvial soil supports rice cultivation, vegetables, pulses, oilseeds, and horticultural crops. The extensive river system provides irrigation facilities that contribute significantly to agricultural productivity.
Cuttack serves as one of Odisha's leading commercial centers. The district has thriving wholesale markets, healthcare services, educational institutions, manufacturing units, and small-scale industries. Its strategic location helps connect coastal Odisha with interior regions of the state.
Tourism in Cuttack revolves around its historical monuments, cultural sites, and museums. Popular attractions include Barabati Fort, Netaji Birthplace Museum, Odisha State Maritime Museum, Chandi Temple, Deer Park, and nearby eco-tourism destinations. The city also attracts visitors during its spectacular Durga Puja celebrations.
Cuttack experiences a tropical climate with hot summers, moderate winters, and a strong southwest monsoon season. Most rainfall occurs between June and September. The riverine geography makes the district agriculturally productive but also vulnerable to occasional floods during heavy monsoon years.
Today, Cuttack remains one of Odisha's most important urban centers. It houses the Odisha High Court, major hospitals, universities, sports facilities, and government institutions. While preserving its rich historical heritage, the district continues to grow as a center of commerce, healthcare, and education.
Cuttack served as Odisha's capital for nearly a millennium, is known worldwide for silver filigree craftsmanship, hosts one of India's grandest Durga Puja celebrations, and is the birthplace of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose. These unique features make it one of the most culturally significant districts of Odisha.