Bhubaneswar: The Master Canteen Square located in the heart of Bhubaneswar may soon be renamed. The Odisha government is reported to be contemplating a new name to better reflect the state’s rich cultural heritage.
As per sources, the state government has asked the departments of general administration and public grievance (GA & PG) and the revenue and disaster management to take appropriate steps in suggesting a suitable name.
Notably, Advocate and rights activist Radhakanta Tripathy has been urging the government to rename the square since March 2021. In letters addressed to the Chief Minister and Chief Secretary, he pointed out that the current name does not adequately represent the civilisational legacy of Odisha.
Alternative names such as Kalinga, Utkal, and Paika, or names honouring notable freedom fighters like Jayi Rajaguru and Saheed Laxman Nayak have been suggested by Tripathy.
However, prominent businessman Sunjoy Hans, whose family established the original Master Canteen eatery in the 1940s, has voiced concern about moves to change the name, highlighting its historical importance to the city.
Located near the Bhubaneswar Railway Station, Master Canteen Square happens to be a centre of significant commercial activity and attracts a large number of visitors.