The Mahanadi River is a major river in East Central India. It drains an area of around 132,100 square kilometres (51,000 sq mi) and has a total length of 900 kilometres (560 mi).
The Mahanadi originates in Chhattisgarh’s Dhamtari district and flows through Odisha, finally draining into the Bay of Bengal. It is a key river system in the region and has led to water-sharing disputes between the states since 2016.
Mahanadi River, meaning “Great River,” is one of the most significant east-flowing rivers in India. It is the largest river in Odisha and the third-largest peninsular river after the Godavari and Krishna.
The Mahanadi River System is a major river system in East-Central India, originating from the highlands of Chhattisgarh and flowing through Odisha before emptying into the Bay of Bengal.
Various rivers in ancient Hindu texts have been identified as the Mahanadi, among them the Nilotpala, Kanak Nandini, and Mahasweta. In one myth, the Mahanadi is believed to have been formed when the warrior sage Parashurama struck the earth with his axe.
Originating from Sihawa hills, Mahanadi is a key east-flowing river in Chhattisgarh and Odisha with high water potential, next only to the Godavari.
The Mahanadi River, one of the major river systems of peninsular India, originates from the Sihawa Hills in the Dhamtari district of Chhattisgarh at approximately 442 meters above sea level.
Explore the Mahanadi River—its origin, tributaries, Hirakud Dam, delta, and the ongoing Odisha-Chhattisgarh water dispute.
Explore the Mahanadi River: Delve into its rich history, mythology, and journey through India. Learn about its course, and the states it traverses, and its impact on local culture and ecology