Introduction
Kendujhar
District, also known as Keonjhar District, is a prominent administrative region
in the eastern Indian state of Odisha. With its headquarters at Kendujhar town,
the district is renowned for its rich geological, historical, and cultural
heritage. One of its most fascinating features is the presence of some of the
oldest rocks on Earth estimated to be around 3.8 billion years old spanning 100
square kilometers in Asanpat. The district also boasts Odisha’s oldest stone
inscription from the Gupta period and the exquisite frescoes of Ravana Chhaya
in Sitabinj, dating back to the 5th century A.D. Covering an area of 8,240 sq
km, Kendujhar became a district following the integration of princely states into
Odisha on January 1, 1948.
Location of Kendujhar District
Kendujhar is a Landlocked District situated in the northern part of
Odisha. It is bordered by Mayurbhanj, Balasore, and Bhadrak districts to the
east; Jajpur to the south; Dhenkanal, Angul, and Sundargarh to the west; and
West Singhbhum in Jharkhand to the north. The district lies between 21º 1’ N to
22º 10’ N latitude and 85º 11’ E to 86º 22’ E longitude2. Its strategic
location makes it a vital link between the mineral-rich hinterlands and the
coastal plains of Odisha.
History of Kendujhar District
The
historical roots of Kendujhar are deep and complex. It was once a princely
state ruled by the Nagas of Vindhyatabi from the 2nd to 4th century CE. Among
its rulers, King Satrubhanja stands out as a notable figure. The region has
been referenced in medieval Sanskrit inscriptions as "Kenjhar," a
name later Sanskritized to "Kendujhar" by the ex-Durbar government.
Before its merger with Odisha, Kendujhar functioned as an autonomous princely
state. The Sitabinj cave paintings and ancient inscriptions reflect the
district’s rich cultural and artistic legacy.
Geography of Kendujhar District
Kendujhar’s
terrain is a blend of hills, forests, and plains. The western part of the
district is dominated by rugged hills such as Gandhamardan (3477 ft),
Mankadnacha (3639 ft), Gonasika (3219 ft), and Thakurani (3003 ft), while the
eastern half features the fertile plains of Anandapur. About 30% of the
district is covered with dense forests, primarily consisting of Northern
tropical deciduous trees like Sal, Asan, Jamu, Arjuna, Mahua, and Kendu1. The
climate is characterized by hot summers, pleasant monsoons, and cool winters,
with average annual rainfall around 1534.5 mm.
Demography of Kendujhar District
According
to the 2011 Census, Kendujhar District has a population of approximately 1.8
million, with 906,487 males and 895,246 females. The district has a significant
tribal population, with Scheduled Tribes accounting for 818,878 and Scheduled
Castes for 209,357. The rural population dominates, comprising over 1.5 million
people, while the urban population stands at around 253,0003. The average
household size is 4.45, and the population density is 217 people per square
kilometer. This demographic diversity contributes to the district’s vibrant
cultural tapestry.
Administration of Kendujhar District
Administratively,
Kendujhar is divided into three sub-divisions: Anandapur, Champua, and
Kendujhar. It includes 13 tahsils, 13 blocks, 297 Gram Panchayats, 2132
villages, four municipalities, and one Notified Area Council (NAC). The
district is governed by a Collector and District Magistrate, supported by
various departmental officers. Each tehsil is headed by a Tehsildar responsible
for revenue administration and law enforcement3. The decentralized structure
ensures efficient governance and service delivery across the district’s vast
and varied landscape.
Economy of Kendujhar District
Kendujhar
is one of Odisha’s most mineral-rich districts. It has abundant reserves of
iron ore, manganese, chromite, quartzite, bauxite, gold, pyrophyllite, and
limestone. Major industrial establishments include Kalinga Iron Works (Barbil),
Ferro Manganese Plant (Joda), and Charge Chrome Plant (Brahmanipal). The
district also hosts engineering, metal-based, chemical, plastic, agro, and
marine industries. Agriculture remains a vital part of the economy, with key
crops including paddy, maize, til, niger, and arhar.
Tourism
is another emerging sector, driven by the district’s natural beauty and
historical sites. Attractions like the Gonasika Hills, Bhimkund Waterfall, and
Sitabinj cave paintings draw visitors seeking both adventure and cultural
enrichment.
Kendujhar
District stands as a testament to Odisha Rich Heritage and natural wealth. From ancient
rock formations and tribal traditions to industrial prowess and scenic
landscapes, it offers a unique blend of history, culture, and development.
Whether you're a traveler, historian, or entrepreneur, Kendujhar promises a compelling
experience in the heart of eastern India.