Charm of Cuttack: A Journey
Cuttack is one of the oldest cities in Odisha and one of the most overlooked treasures in eastern India. Sitting on the banks of the mighty Mahanadi River, it carries a timeless grace. While Bhubaneswar may be the state’s modern administrative capital, Cuttack remains Odisha’s cultural and historical heartbeat. With a legacy stretching over a thousand years, the charm of Cuttack shines through its intricate silver filigree work, mouth-watering sweets, and vibrant festivals that fill its streets with color, music, and tradition.
A Look into Cuttack’s Glorious History
As a tribute to its historical military importance, Cuttack gets its name from the Sanskrit term Kataka, which means “fort”. The city was founded in 989 CE by King Nrupa Keshari of the Somavamshi dynasty and served as the capital of Odisha for more than nine centuries. This long reign saw Cuttack evolve into a thriving center of politics, trade, and culture.
One of the most enduring symbols of Cuttack’s historic past is the Barabati Fort. Strategically located near the Mahanadi, the fort once stood tall as a defense structure against invaders. Although much of it now lies in ruins, the remnants of its grand gate and wide moat offer a window into a bygone era. From the British Raj to the Ganga rulers and Muslim sultans, the location has seen the rise and fall of dynasties. Nearby, the Barabati Stadium, a prominent cricket venue, adds a contemporary touch to this historical landscape.
Cuttack also played a vital role in India’s independence movement. It is the birthplace of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, one of the nation’s most revered freedom fighters. Authorities have transformed his ancestral house into the Netaji Birthplace Museum, where visitors can explore rare photographs, letters, and personal belongings that shed light on his extraordinary life and patriotism.
The Sparkling Silver City
Cuttack’s reputation as the Silver City of India comes from its famous silver filigree work, known locally as Tarakasi. This beautiful craft, practiced for more than 500 years, involves shaping fine silver wires into delicate designs. Artisans turn these designs into jewelry, home décor, and even grand ceremonial backdrops, all of which reflect the true Charm of Cuttack.
What sets Tarakasi apart is its astonishing level of craftsmanship. Artisans often spend several days—or even weeks—perfecting a single piece. The patterns, ranging from floral to geometric motifs, reflect Mughal and Odia influences. During Durga Puja, Cuttack becomes a living gallery of this art. Massive silver backdrops called chandi medhas adorn the goddess idols, turning city neighborhoods into open-air art exhibitions.
To witness or shop for this beautiful craftsmanship, head to markets like Nayasarak and Balu Bazar. Here, you’ll find everything from filigree earrings and bangles to miniature animals and decorative showpieces—each item a testament to a tradition preserved across generations.
A Paradise for Sweet Tooths
No visit to Cuttack is complete without indulging in its legendary sweets. The city is a dessert lover’s dream, offering a delicious spread of traditional Odia confections that have stood the test of time.
- Rasagola: Though often linked with Bengal, the Odisha Rasagola—especially Cuttack’s version—has a unique identity. It is softer, creamier, and less chewy, soaked in a light, fragrant sugar syrup. Every bite is a nostalgic experience because of the city’s numerous confectioneries that preserve family recipes passed down through the years.
- Chhena Poda: Translating to “burnt cheese,” this sweet is often called Odisha’s answer to cheesecake. Sweet makers prepare it from fresh cottage cheese, sugar, and a hint of cardamom, then bake it until the top is beautifully caramelized. Though it originated in Nayagarh, sweet shops in Cuttack now offer some of the best versions.
- Pahala Rasagola: Another variation of Rasagola, Pahala Rasagola is softer and often served chilled. It is made with chhena (cottage cheese) and has a more delicate texture, making it a must-try for sweet lovers.
- Khaja: Vendors traditionally offer Khaja—a layered, crunchy sweet dipped in syrup—at the Jagannath Temple in Puri, but Cuttack’s version, especially during festivals, seriously competes. Its crisp layers and syrupy goodness win over locals and visitors alike.
- Mitha Khaja: A variant of Khaja, this sweet is often rolled in a thick layer of sugar syrup, making it extra sweet and chewy. It’s a popular treat at local sweet shops, especially during festivals like Durga Puja.
- Chhena Jhili: Sweet makers deep-fry this dessert using fresh cottage cheese (chhena) and then drench it in sugar syrup. It’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, offering a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
- Rasmalai: A sweet and creamy dessert made from flattened chhena, soaked in a flavored milk syrup with cardamom and saffron. It’s light and fragrant, making it a popular choice for sweet lovers in Cuttack.
Visit College Square, Buxi Bazar, and Badambadi to find some of the most popular sweet stalls. These humble vendors serve treats that tell stories of culinary heritage and craftsmanship, one bite at a time.
A City of Festivals and Culture
Cuttack is a city that knows how to celebrate. Durga Puja, the most anticipated festival here, transforms the city into a wonderland of lights, silver, and devotion. Puja committees compete to create t
he most elaborate chandi medhas, drawing throngs of visitors who marvel at the dazzling artistry.
Another major event is Bali Jatra, which is celebrated every November on the banks of the Mahanadi River. This ancient festival commemorates Odisha’s maritime trade with Southeast Asian kingdoms like Bali, Java, and Sumatra. The fairground becomes a lively hub of folk music, dance, shopping, and street food. It’s not just a festival—it’s a celebration of Odisha’s seafaring legacy.
Cuttack hosts a packed cultural calendar year-round, featuring everything from Ganesh Chaturthi and Kartik Purnima to local jatra (folk theater) performances and classical music concerts—all of which showcase the vibrant Charm of Cuttack.
Cuttack Today
While deeply rooted in tradition, Cuttack is steadily embracing modernity. The city is home to prominent educational institutions like Ravenshaw University, SCB Medical College, and legal hubs that contribute to a vibrant, intellectual community. Though many of its streets still reflect an old-world charm with narrow lanes and bustling bazaars, modern amenities like malls, cafes, and tech hubs are gradually making their presence felt.
Yet, what truly defines Cuttack is not just its history or modernization, but its people—their warmth, resilience, and deep pride in their culture and heritage. Whether it’s through preserving age-old art forms or preparing festive sweets with love, the spirit of Cuttack is ever-present.
Final Thoughts
Cuttack is not merely a destination; it’s an emotion. It whispers tales through its ancient forts, shines in its intricate silver artwork, and comforts the soul with its delectable sweets. For history buffs, art lovers, festival goers, and foodies alike, Cuttack offers a rich, immersive experience that is both timeless and unforgettable—capturing the true Charm of Cuttack.
So the next time you find yourself in Odisha, don’t just stop at the beaches of Puri or the temples of Bhubaneswar. Make your way to Cuttack, the silver heart of the state, and discover a city that honors its past while embracing its future.
