Cuttack

City and river port in east India, on the Mahanadi River delta; population (2001) 535,100. It is noted for its gold and silver filigree work, and produces textiles and electrical equipment. Almost surrounded by the Mahanadi River and its tributary the Kathjuri, it is at the centre of a network of canals. Founded in the 10th century, it was the capital of Orissa state until 1950. The old fort, Kataka, from which the city takes its name, is in ruins.