Book ‘Garimamaya Auli Itihas’ Launched in Bhubaneswar, Chronicles the Legacy of Odisha’s Aul Princely State

Bhubaneswar: A new book titled “Garimamaya Auli Itihas”, authored by Golaka Bihari Singh, was released on Friday at Geet Gobind Sadan in Bhubaneswar. The book offers a compelling and deeply researched account of Aul, one of Odisha’s significant princely states, exploring its cultural, social, and political evolution.

Speaking at the launch, eminent litterateur Dr. Gourahari Das praised the book for its in-depth portrayal of life within the princely states of Odisha. He noted that the author has meticulously documented the rich cultural traditions, social hierarchies, and colonial influences that shaped the lives of the people in Aul. “The book sheds light on the diverse experiences of the subjects and captures the intricate web of power, privilege, and traditions that defined these states,” he remarked.

Dr. Lalatendu Das Mohapatra, former Deputy Director of the National Archives of India, highlighted that the book moves beyond political narratives to examine the interactions between the princely rulers and the British Raj. He said it also captures the transition from princely rule to the post-independence era, reflecting on the challenges faced by these rulers during integration into the Indian Union.

Dr. Biswajit Mohanty, State Convener of INTACH, described the book as more than just a historical record. “It is a testament to the ongoing relevance of understanding our past. The author explores Aul’s political structure, social fabric, and cultural identity while situating it within the broader colonial and post-colonial framework,” he said.

Adding to the discussion, historian Anil Dhir, Convener of INTACH Bhubaneswar Chapter, observed that India’s princely and feudatory states remain an underexplored area in mainstream history. “These small kingdoms reflect a fascinating blend of indigenous traditions and colonial influences. Odisha’s 26 princely states—known as the Gadjats—were distinct in their governance and played a defining role in shaping Odisha’s identity,” he said.

INTACH will also document the history of other princely states of Odisha as part of an ongoing research project. An English translation of “Garimamaya Auli Itihas” is also expected to be released soon.