Historical Overview of Bamanda
Bamanda (also known as Bamra), renowned as a citadel of creative artists, traces its origins back to the 5th century A.D., reflecting a rich and vibrant cultural heritage. In later centuries, the region came under the administrative control of the Maratha rulers, marking a significant phase in its political history.
Subsequently, the Ganga Dynasty rose to power and established their capital at Deogarh. The region flourished under their rule, particularly during the reign of Raja Basudev Sudhal Dev, one of the most enlightened and progressive monarchs of the dynasty.
His reign marked a period of remarkable advancement in governance and infrastructure. A new era of communication and intellectual development began with the establishment of the Jagannath Ballav Press in 1886, followed by the publication of the weekly magazine Sambalpur Hitaishini in 1889.
Under his leadership, several key public institutions were established, including jails, police stations, post offices, and dispensaries, significantly strengthening administrative efficiency and public welfare. He also introduced irrigation systems that greatly enhanced agricultural productivity.
One of the most notable technological achievements of his era was the installation of a 78-mile-long telephone line in 1900 connecting Bamanda and Barkote—recognized as the longest telephone line in India at that time.
Bamanda also developed a well-organized independent postal system, which was later integrated into the British postal network in 1895. Remarkably, Sir Sudhal Dev issued postage stamps within his kingdom and even introduced paper currency, demonstrating administrative innovation and economic foresight.
His successor, Raja Sachidananda Tribhuban Dev, continued these progressive initiatives. A major milestone during his reign was the introduction of a hydro-electric system at Kurodkot Waterfall, which supplied electricity to the royal palace, cloth looms, and the sugar factory established in 1908 at Rambhei.
During the reign of Raja Bhanuganga Tribhuban Dev, the Bamra estate was merged with Odisha on 1st January 1948, and it subsequently became part of Sambalpur district, marking the end of princely rule and integration into modern administrative governance.
