Cuttack: The city of brotherhood

 

In a country that is raging with communal issues, where brothers and sisters of the same soil are fighting and saying mean things about each other, fuelled by political parties, Cuttack remains untouched by that propaganda. The idea is brotherhood is not only spoken but is felt by each and every Katakia.

Cuttack, the literal translation means a fort/military establishment in Sanskrit, was a city started by the Keshari Dynasty in 989 AD as their military headquarters around the Barabati fort.  It has been ruled by various kings, including the Mughals and the British. It has been the location where the governors of these states lived because of its geographical abilities- both fortified as well as a centre for trade and commerce. It has a maritime museum that used to be the warehouse and repair of boats as it is a major stop.

The city is the birthplace of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose, a man who needs no introduction in the entire world. Mahatma Gandhi used this place for his meetings in Odisha. The biggest Gurdwara here Daatan Sahib was graced by Shri Guru Nanak Dev. It also houses temples and mosques of more than 400 years old and churches of over 100 years old. Infact there are private houses which are 100 years old. My very own house is 61 running!

Growing in Cuttack goes with a popular Odia saying “52 bazaar, 53 gali, Nagara te nahi, Kataka bhali” which translates to A city with 52 markets and 53 lanes is like no other. The city doesn’t rush, it moves with joy. It has this ‘Live life king size’ attitude, which some would see as not very serious about everything. Katakia’s don’t like to be bothered until it is pretty serious – something like eating Dahibara Aloodum or visiting Bali Jatra(giggles). It has both office goers (more govt. than private) and businessmen. After the end of the hectic day, the soothing breeze from Mahanadi and KathaJodi feels like heaven. I am sure the ring road or Naraj (points to sit for the cool breeze) has seen many occasions of joy, excitement, and sorrow as well. I can say from my personal experience, you can talk to the rivers.

When I say people outside, I don’t understand the rush of corporate life, blame Cuttack for not having one. When I say I don’t understand how people fight over religions, blame Cuttack for living as one family. I have grown up looking at Temple Trust organising Sehri and Muslim Body celebrating Durga Puja. Infact, all the celebrations from all the religions are celebrated together. The harmony is in the blood of the people and the roots of this 1000-year-old city. Fortunately, the politicians from BJP, INC have never asked for votes on this.
When a new person arrives at the city, he is often taken aback by how welcoming this town is. I have seen neighbours scolding a newcomer for not asking for help. The Sahi or community (based on the geographical location) is one reason why crimes like theft don’t take place enough.

Cuttack is an island-like structure, surrounded by rivers on both sides. No way to expand was the major reason for the transfer of capital to Bhubaneswar. There has been an argument that Cuttack has not been given its due in the standards as Bhubaneswar has been given, even it is called Twin City officially and Cuttack still is the Legal and Judicial capital of the state. Personally, I am happy that it didn’t turn like any other city, rushed with people being more selfish than thinking about anyone else. It is great the way it is and over-exploitation will ruin it, like the way we see many major cities of India. I am proud of the cultural and religious diversity it holds. The city of Cuttack is certainly an example of tolerance and acceptance and a place of peace for the entire world.