Medieval History of Cuttack can be traced back from the rule of Kesharis. The earliest written history of Cuttack may go back to the Keshari dynasty. As stated by the distinguished historian Andrew Stirling, the modern Cuttack was established as a military cantonment by King Nrupa Keshari of Keshari dynasty in 989.
Account of Madala Panji
Madala Panji, a chronicle of the Jagannath temple of Puri defines the existence of Cuttack in 700 to 900 AD. The reign of Maharaja Markata Keshari was distinguished for the stone embank built to protect the new capital from flood in 1002 CE.
Ganga Dynasty of Cuttack
The historical and archaeological evidence suggests Cuttack becoming capital of a kingdom founded by Raja Anangabhimadeva III of Ganga dynasty in 1211 CE. After the end of Ganga rule, Odisha passed to the hands of the Suryavamsi Gajapati dynasty (1434–1541 CE) under whom Cuttack continued to be the capital of Odisha. After the death of Raja Mukunda deva, the last Hindu king of Odisha, Cuttack first came under Muslim rule and later under Mughal Dynasty.
Decline of Muslim Rule in Cutttack
By 1750, Cuttack came under Maratha rule and it grew fast as a business centre being the convenient point of contact between the Marathas of Nagpur and the English merchants of Bengal.
Barabati Fort of Cuttack
The remains of the old Barabati Fort still exist in the heart of Cuttack and now the popular attraction in Odisha.
British Residence in Cuttack
Cuttack was occupied by the British East India Company in 1803 and later became the capital of Odisha division in 1816. From 1948 onwards, when the capital was shifted to Bhubaneshwar, the city remained the administrative headquarters for the state of Odisha.
Related Articles
Cities of India
Cities of Orissa
Cuttack
History of Cuttack
