Berhampur

Berhampur, also spelled Brahmapur, is a city in the southern part of Odisha, India. It is the largest urban center in the Ganjam district and serves as a major commercial and educational hub for the region. The city lies inland from the eastern coastline and functions as a key connection point for travel and trade in southern Odisha.

Historically, Berhampur developed as a market town and grew with railway and trade networks during the colonial era. In the post-independence period it expanded as an educational center and commercial node, attracting students and workers from across the district and neighboring areas.

The city hosts Berhampur University (established 1967) in nearby Brahmapur, as well as the MKCG Medical College and Hospital and a range of colleges and institutes. These institutions give the city an important role in higher education and healthcare for the region.

Berhampur's economy centers on textiles and handlooms, retail trade, education, and public services. The local textile and garment markets are a notable feature of the city, alongside growing service-sector activity and small-scale industries.

Berhampur has a major railway station on the Howrah-Chennai main line and is connected by road to state and national highways. The nearest airports are in Bhubaneswar and Visakhapatnam, with rail and road links facilitating travel to other parts of India.

The official language is Odia, with English widely used in business and education. The city has a mix of religious and cultural communities, with temples, mosques, churches and markets reflecting Odia culture. Local festivals and fairs are observed in keeping with regional traditions.