Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik Greenlights Renaming of Kalahandi University to Maa Manikeshwari University
Bhubaneswar: Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has given his nod to the proposal put forth by the Higher Education Department to rename Kalahandi University in Bhawanipatna. The university is set to be rechristened as “Maa Manikeshwari University,” a decision that holds cultural and regional significance for the people of Kalahandi.
Goddess Maa Manikeshwari is revered as the presiding deity of Kalahandi district, and the renaming of the university pays homage to the deep-rooted cultural and religious sentiments of the local community.
Kalahandi University, established in 2001, has played a pivotal role in providing higher education opportunities in the region. With 50 colleges falling under its purview, the institution has been instrumental in shaping the academic landscape of Kalahandi.
The decision to rename the university after Maa Manikeshwari was announced by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik during his visit to Kalahandi district in November of the previous year. This move reflects the Chief Minister’s commitment to honoring the cultural heritage and spiritual significance associated with the Goddess in the region.
The renaming of Kalahandi University to Maa Manikeshwari University is expected to further strengthen the cultural identity of the region and foster a sense of pride among the local residents. The decision resonates with the sentiments of the people who hold deep veneration for Goddess Maa Manikeshwari.
As the administrative processes for the renaming are set in motion, the local community anticipates that Maa Manikeshwari University will continue to be a beacon of knowledge and contribute to the holistic development of the region. The renaming ceremony is likely to be a momentous occasion, bringing together academic, cultural, and religious elements to celebrate the rich heritage of Kalahandi.
