In a remarkable initiative to celebrate and preserve local heritage, members of the Cuttack Heritage Walk, under the leadership of heritage enthusiast Dr. Deepak Samantaray, visited the Shree Gopal Krishna Goshala in Nuabazar. The event shed light on the rich history of the goshala, its role in protecting cattle, and its deep cultural roots in Odisha.
The Shree Gopal Krishna Goshala, established in 1905 by philanthropists Seth Vishan Dayal and Seth Hari Dayal from West Bengal’s Salakia, stands as Odisha’s oldest cow shelter. Spanning 33 acres, this historic facility was built on land that once housed an old dharmashala (pilgrim shelter) along the ancient Jagannath Road. Over time, changes in transportation rendered the shelter obsolete, making way for the goshala, which has continued to thrive for over a century.
Today, the goshala provides care for over a thousand cows, ensuring their well-being with proper sustenance and medical attention. Managed under the guidance of the Cuttack Marwari Samaj, the facility remains a beacon of conservation, blending service with cultural heritage.
During the heritage walk, discussions were held with key members, including Vice President Shri Vishwanath Dhanuka, Treasurer Shri Suresh Kumar Poddar, and other stakeholders, who elaborated on the historical significance and ongoing efforts to sustain the goshala’s legacy. Participants, including Dr. Hemant Kumar Parida, Srikant Singh, and Damayanti Samantaray, expressed their admiration for the goshala’s dedicated service, reinforcing the importance of preserving such historic establishments.
The visit concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks by Tejesh Sahu, leaving participants inspired by the goshala’s enduring legacy. The initiative not only honoured Odisha’s heritage but also reinforced the necessity of conserving sacred spaces for future generations.
