This research paper explores the Paika Bidroh (Rebellion) of 1817 in Odisha, India, through a postcolonial lens, examining the complex narratives and historical representations of the event in Odia literature. The Paika Rebellion was a significant uprising against British colonial rule, led by Buxi Jagabandhu, and marked a crucial moment in India's struggle for independence. By analyzing the rebellion's historical context, cultural significance, and literary representations, this paper aims to unsettle dominant narratives and highlight the heterogeneities and linkages that characterized the event.

The paper argues that the Paika Bidroh (Rebellion) was not merely a localized disturbance but a complex phenomenon that reflected the social, economic, and political grievances of the time. Through a critical analysis of Odia literature and historical accounts, this research reveals the diverse perspectives and experiences of the Paika community, tribals, and other social groups involved in the rebellion. By doing so, it challenges dominant imperialist and nationalist historiographies, offering a nuanced understanding of the rebellion's significance in Indian history.