The onomastics of Bhubaneswar’s IRC Village & its relevance now

What is now a bustling, modern neighborhood in Nayapalli, once began as a temporary settlement built to host a grand national event - the 'Indian Roads Congress' (IRC)

- PNN & AGENCIES

When it comes to naming places, Odisha, in particular, its capital city Bhubaneswar has the most peculiar set of names that have been associated with some of the most interesting legends.

Be it the famous Master Canteen square, which was purportedly named after a loving teacher who used to sell tea and snacks there or the Poonama Gate in the Old Town area which came to be called so after a girl named Poonam ended her life by jumping in front of a train at the same place, Bhubaneswar doesn't have a dearth of folklores that give meaning to its existence making it a delight to live for its residents.

Such a name is 'IRC Village' in the Nayapalli area of the Smart City; a relatively posh area, home to many rich and influential people of the State. And as Odisha once again prepares to welcome delegates for 84th Indian Roads Congress, the story of IRC Village reminds us that sometimes, the most enduring legacies are born out of temporary beginnings.