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Odisha swells with pride as the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH) honored 20 iconic eateries in Cuttack with heritage plaques. This recognition celebrates the Millennium City’s culinary legacy. The ceremony held recently at the Cuttack Tax Bar Association in Markatanagara marked a milestone for these establishments woven into Cuttack’s vibrant bylanes. They reflect Odisha’s rich food culture.
A Legacy Preserved Through Flavors
Cuttack boasts a thousand-year history as Odisha’s cultural and commercial core. The 20 eateries awarded by INTACH in Odisha transcend dining spots as they embody the city’s essence. Peta Sahu Sweet Stall over 150 years old and Trilochan Sahoo Mixture Shop, founded in 1930, have thrived across generations with authentic flavors. The Cuttack Chapter of INTACH led by Gopal Krishna Behera named them “Heritage Eateries of Cuttack” for their age, food quality and hospitality.
Suman Prakash Swain, a 22-year-old INTACH life member, conducted a detailed survey of 45 historic eateries to select the 20 recipients. His work is inspired by Gopal Krishna Behera, showcases Odisha’s youth safeguarding their heritage. During the ceremony Swain explained the project’s depth while Anil Dhir, Biswajit Mohanty and Raja Parija highlighted its cultural value. This effort mirrors INTACH’s prior recognition of 14 eateries in Kolkata and underscores our shared responsibility.
Iconic Cuttack Eateries Bagged INTACH Heritage for Odisha
These eateries form a rich tapestry of flavors and histories. Peta Sahu Sweet Stall 150 years old at Chandni Chowk offers bara and guguni run by the sixth generation. Trilochan Sahoo Mixture Shop since 1930 and Cuttack Sweets Stall from 1940 delight with timeless treats. Swaraj Hotel and Lodge begun in 1945 and Jagabandhu Hindu Hotel started in 1968 remain cherished haunts. New Hong Kong Restaurant launched in 1963 blends cuisines while Nilu Sahoo Sweet Shop founded in 1964 tempts with sweets. Dama Maharaj established in 1951 and Behera Sweets from 1972 add unique tastes.
Gouranga Sahoo Sweet Stall at Buxi Bazaar since 1949 and Madhu Sahoo Sweet & Mixture from the 1940s uphold sweet-making traditions. Natha Sahoo Sweets and Snacks begun in 1965 and Hotel Citylight started in 1964 offer beloved snacks. USV’s South Indian Restaurant since 1960 and Sri Jagannath Mistana Bhandar from 1962 bring diversity. Bhagwan Sahu Sweets and Restaurant founded in 1965 and Malia Nani Special Bara (3-in-1 bara) since 1949 serve distinctive bites. SriRam Mistana Bhandar nearly 100 years old and Bijaya Sweets also nearing a century preserve heritage sweets. Indira Nana Hotel launched in 1955 completes this list.
Amiya Bhushan Tripathy the State Convenor of INTACH presented the plaques and praised the owners’ dedication. He urged them to maintain their establishments’ heritage and dignity.
Significance of INTACH Heritage Tag for Cuttack, Odisha
This honor celebrates Odisha’s resilience and cultural richness. Cuttack’s food culture threads through the state’s heritage and reflects the ingenuity of its people who adapt yet stay grounded. These eateries foster memories, unite families and embody Odia hospitality.
Gopal Krishna Behera emphasized that this initiative safeguards Cuttack’s culinary history for future generations. The project marks Odisha’s progress in cultural preservation. It aligns with valuing traditions amid modern shifts and boosts Odia pride. Swain’s leadership signals a future where heritage endures through young hands.
Moving Ahead Together in Pride
The INTACH heritage tag unites Odias in treasuring its past and present. It calls on Odisha’s people to value local institutions and nurture their growth. These 20 eateries from Peta Sahu Sweet Stall to Indira Nana Hotel bridge generations with every dish. The recognition advances Odisha’s uniqueness and inspires us to move forward with respect for our roots and hope for tomorrow.
