Historical Sights and Heritage

1. Kalinga Empire & The Mauryan Invasion (261 BCE)

• • Odisha was once known as Kalinga, a powerful kingdom with a strong naval force.
  • The famous Kalinga War, fought by Emperor Ashoka, led to a turning point in Indian history.
  • Witnessing the bloodshed, Ashoka renounced violence, embraced Buddhism, and spread its teachings across Asia.