महानदी Mahanadi
The Great River - Lifeline of Odisha
Geographical Details
Basic Information
- Source:
- Sihawa, Chhattisgarh
- Length:
- 858 km
- Basin Area:
- 141,589 km²
- Mouth:
- Bay of Bengal
- States:
- Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Jharkhand
Sacred Geography
- • Sihawa: Sacred source in Chhattisgarh
- • Sambalpur: Cultural center with Hirakud Dam
- • Cuttack: Silver City on the delta
- • Puri: Holy city near the mouth
- • Konark: Sun Temple near the coast
- • Paradip: Major port at the mouth
Cultural & Religious Significance
The Great River
Mahanadi, literally meaning "Great River," is the lifeline of Odisha and holds immense cultural and religious significance. The river is considered sacred and is worshipped as a goddess. It has been central to the development of Odishan civilization and culture. The river's delta is one of the most fertile regions in India, supporting millions of people. The river is mentioned in ancient texts and has numerous temples along its banks.
Sacred Festivals
- • Makar Sankranti: Sacred bathing festival
- • Kartik Purnima: Boita Bandana festival
- • Ganga Aarti: Evening prayers at ghats
- • Raja Festival: Celebration of earth goddess
Cultural Heritage
- • Jagannath Culture: Connected to Puri temple
- • Odissi Dance: Classical dance form of the region
- • Pattachitra: Traditional scroll painting
- • Maritime Trade: Ancient trading traditions
Major Tributaries
Left Bank Tributaries
- Seonath: Major tributary in Chhattisgarh
- Hasdo: Important tributary with coal mines
- Mand: Flows through Chhattisgarh
Right Bank Tributaries
- Ib: Major tributary in Odisha
- Brahmani: Important river in Odisha
- Tel: Tributary in Odisha
Economic Importance
Agriculture
The Mahanadi delta is one of India's most fertile regions, supporting extensive rice cultivation. The river provides irrigation to millions of acres of farmland.
Industry
The river basin is rich in mineral resources including coal, iron ore, and bauxite. Major industrial centers have developed along the river.
Hydroelectric Power
The Hirakud Dam on Mahanadi is one of India's longest dams and generates significant hydroelectric power for the region.
Complete Mahanadi Information
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