Tangi, Odisha

Tangi is a town and a Notified Area Council in Khordha district in the Indian state of Odisha. It is a major town in Khordha district. It is situated 65 km away from the state capital Bhubaneswar and 38 km away from the district headquarter Khordha.

Etymology and Landscape
The name "Tangi" finds its roots in the Odia language, where "tangi" refers to a stony surface, a characteristic attributed to the town's unique topography. Notably, Tangi boasts rare red-colored soil, a unique feature seldom found in other regions of Odisha. It is worth mentioning that the red-colored soil is a characteristic shared by Tangi and the entire Khordha district. As of the 2011 census, Tangi is home to around 25,000 residents, making it a significant urban center within Khordha district.

Geographical Connectivity
Strategically positioned, Tangi is intersected by National Highway 16, facilitating seamless connectivity to Kolkata,Bhubaneswar,Berhampur,Vishakhapatanam,Chennai and other key locations. The town serves as a pivotal link, bridging the gap between Khordha district and Nayagarh district.Tangi is situated as a neighbouring town to Chandpur(Wholesale Business Hub). Neighbouring villages of Tangi includes Badapari, Chandeswar, Kalupada, Mangalajodi,

Modes of Transportation
Tangi is well-connected through road, rail, and air. The nearest railway station, Kalupada Ghat, ensures convenient rail access, while Biju Patnaik Airport in Bhubaneswar caters to air travel enthusiasts. By road, visitors can embark on a scenic(hill view, Chilika lake view) journey via National Highway-16 from Bhubaneswar or Berhampur.

Economic and Political Hub
Known for its political dynamism, Tangi is a bustling hub with a diverse economic landscape. The residents engage in various occupations, including agriculture, government jobs, journalism, retail businesses, transportation, and more. The town serves as a border between Khordha and Nayagarh districts, fostering economic ties with neighbouring business hub, Chandpur.

Cultural and Recreational Hub
Tangi is surrounded by several Hindu temples, including the Loknath Temple, Raghunath Temple, Mahadev Temple, Balunkeswar Temple, Balaram Temple, Ratnamali Temple, and more. The majority of the population practices Hinduism, with a smaller yet significant Muslim community coexisting peacefully with Hindus. Residents are known for their friendliness and cooperative nature. Beyond its role as an official workplace, Tangi emerges as a cultural melting pot. Notable Club includes Shiva Youth Club, Tangi Block Journalist Association, Chilika Club, Ugratara Club and many more.

The residents of Tangi enthusiastically engage in annual celebratory events such as the Tangi Mahotsav and Neelambu Mahotsav, meticulously crafted and organised by the members of Tangi Block Journalist Association. These events not only serve as occasions for joyous festivities but also stand as a testament to the community's unity and vibrant spirit. The Shiva Youth Club, a prominent local organisation established by the 1992-10th Class batch of the local school 'Balaram Dev Vidypapith', plays a central role in nurturing cultural vibrancy. Through dynamic initiatives such as Music, Drama & Dance performances, Theatrical operas, Sport events such as football and cricket tournaments,Independence day & Republic day celebrations; this club contributes significantly to the social tapestry of the town. The residents joyously celebrate various festivals, including Ganesh Puja, Durga Puja (Dassahara Puja), Saraswati Puja, Diwali, Holi, Kartik Purnima, Makar Sankranti, Odia New Year/Pana Sankranti, Ratha Yatra,Maha Shivratri(Jagar), English New Year, and more. Makar Sankranti festival marks the beginning of the harvest season every year and it is a time of celebration and thanks-giving to God for the harvest and blessings received in previous year. Here in Tangi, it gets celebrated by a variety of rituals and tradition at the temple situated on the hilltop of 'Giri Govardhan' hill. Tangi pulsates with the rhythm of diverse festivities, adding a spectrum of colors to its cultural landscape.

Educational and Administrative Hub
Tangi houses essential government institutions, including the Tahasil office, Sub-Registrar office, Police station, Fire station, schools, colleges, and a Taluk Court Complex (Gramya Nyayalaya & District Magistrate First Class Court). Tangi is the headquarter to its Block Development Office (popularly known as Block office). The Block-Chairman is duly elected amongst the elected representatives(Panchayat Samiti Sabhya) of the Block from various Panchayat. The Block Development Officer (BDO) acts as the executive head of the PS(Panchayat Samiti). This comprehensive infrastructure supports the administrative, legal, and educational needs of the town and its surrounding areas.

Tourist Attractions
The town's proximity to Chilika Lake, the Mangalajodi Bird Sanctuary, and the Giri Govardhan Hill station and Temple on Hilltop makes Tangi an ideal place for exploration. These attractions draw visitors from far and wide, contributing to Tangi's tourism appeal.

Notable Personalities
Tangi takes pride in being the hometown of several notable personalities, including Padmanav Biswal,Ramachandra Mahapatra (ex-Zilla Parishad Chairman), Kuber Kalasa, Bijay Mahapatra, Madhusudan Senapati, Biswajit Routray, Bijay Rout, Raghunath Sahoo,Kishore Kumar Behera,, and Sushant Singh(Muna).

Cultural and Sporting Heritage
The town boasts a spacious football stadium, popularly known as Chilika Stadium, where state and national-level sports and cultural events unfold, adding to the town's vibrancy.

Conclusion
In essence, Tangi stands not only as a town of stones but as a testament to the spirit of its people—a dynamic community that weaves together tradition, progress, and cultural richness.