DHENKANAL

town, east-central Orissa state, eastern India. Named for Dhenka, a medieval chieftain of the Savara (Saora, or Sora) tribe, Dhenkanal is a marketplace for rice, oilseeds, and timber and is a centre of handloom weaving. It was formerly the capital of the princely state of Dhenkanal, which was incorporated in 1949 into Orissa state. The raja's palace is on a hill encircled by moats. The town is the site of Dhenkanal College (established 1959). Rice and oilseeds are grown in the surrounding area, and forest products are important. Textiles, brass utensils, and other cottage industries are widespread. Pop. (1981) 35,653.