Mayurbhanj is the largest district of Orissa with the beautiful town of Baripada as its headquarters. This region is identified as the land of a generous king Virata, who gave refuge to Pandavas of Mahabharata when they came to him in disguise. During the British rule Mayurbanj became one of the most progressive estates of the region. The initiatives taken by Maharaja Sriram Chandra Bhanj Deo towards the education and infrastructure could be still seen in Mayurbhanj.The wonderful work which was started by the erstwhile rulers of Maurbhanj is now continued by the present young princess of Mayurbhaj, Mrinalika and Akhshita who working relentlessly for the improvement of the local Tribal communities. Over the years Mayurbanj has successfully curved out its own space in the culinary map of India. With the amalgamation of Tribal and various royal cuisine from around the country Mayurbhanj has a unique taste which is similar to no other place in Orissa.