Bhubaneswar’s Journey

Bhubaneswar, the capital of Odisha, is famously known as the Temple City of India. With over 500 ancient temples and a history that dates back more than 2,500 years, the city has always been a center of spirituality and culture.

But in recent decades, Bhubaneswar has transformed into one of India’s first planned smart cities, blending heritage, sustainability, and modern development.

In this article, we will explore Modern vs Old Bhubaneswar, comparing its historic roots with its present-day smart city evolution.

Ancient History of Bhubaneswar: The Heritage & Spiritual Hub

Before modernization, Bhubaneswar was primarily known for its Kalinga architecture, cultural festivals, and traditional lifestyle .Before the era of smart roads and glass buildings, Bhubaneswar was known for one thing – temples.

Before the modern skyline and bustling streets, Bhubaneswar was a timeless city carved in stone and steeped in spirituality. Known as “Ekamra Kshetra” in ancient scriptures, Old Bhubaneswar is a living museum of India’s glorious past.

Walk through the lanes of the Old Town ,and you’ll be transported back in time – from the magnificent Lingaraj Temple to the intricately carved Mukteswara and Rajarani Temples, each monument stands as a testament to Kalinga’s unmatched artistry and spiritual depth.

Amid sacred ponds like Bindusagar, age-old rituals still come alive, and age-old traditions are preserved by generations of priests, craftsmen, and storytellers.

Historic Temples & Architecture–

Lingaraj Temple: It is the soul of Bhubaneswar. Lingaraj Temple Built in the 11th century, a stunning example of Kalinga-style architecture.

Mukteswar Temple: Called the gem of Odisha’s architecture for its intricate carvings.

Rajarani Temple: Built of red sandstone, standing quietly as a witness to time.

Back then, life revolved around festivals, traditions, and spirituality.

Traditional Markets & Lifestyle–

Old Bhubaneswar wasn’t just a place; it was a living museum of Odisha’s culture.

Modern Bhubaneswar: The Smart City Revolution

In 2016, Bhubaneswar was selected as the No.1 Smart City in India, marking a new era of urban development.

Smart Infrastructure

• Smart Roads & WiFi-enabled Zones – like the iconic Janpath Smart Street.
• Integrated Traffic Management System (ITMS) for smoother connectivity.
• Digital Governance for easier citizen services.

IT & Business Hubs

Info City & Info Valley now house IT giants like Infosys, TCS, Tech Mahindra. Rapid growth of startups, co-working spaces, and tech-based industries.

Modern Lifestyle & Entertainment

Shopping malls like Esplanade One & DN Regalia. Trendy cafes and fine dining restaurants. Multiplexes, fitness centers, and urban hangout spots.

Modern Bhubaneswar combines sustainability, technology, and global living standards.

The Blend of Tradition & Modernity

What makes Bhubaneswar special is its balance of heritage and growth.

• The Ekamra Kshetra Heritage Project preserves old temples.
• Festivals like Rajarani Music Festival attract international visitors.
• Even in modern malls, you’ll find local art & handlooms proudly displayed.
• It’s one of the few cities where you can meditate at a 1,000-year-old temple in the morning and work from a modern co-working hub in the evening.

Bhubaneswar doesn’t erase its history—it embraces it while moving forward.

Conclusion: Bhubaneswar’s Timeless Evolution

Bhubaneswar is more than just a city—it’s a story of resilience, culture, and progress.

• From a spiritual temple hub to a global smart city, it shows how tradition and modernity can coexist beautifully.
• Whether you’re a history lover, tech enthusiast, or traveler, Bhubaneswar offers the best of both worlds.

So, the next time you visit Bhubaneswar, take a walk through Old Town temples, then explore the modern Janpath Smart Street—and you’ll see how this incredible city has evolved!

Shaswatrath