Gwalior () is a city in Madhya Pradesh, India, lying 122 kilometres (76 mi) south of Agra, and 423 kilometres (263 mi) north of Bhopal, the state capital. Gwalior occupies a strategic location in the Gird region of India, and the city and its fortress have served as the center of several of historic northern Indian kingdoms. Gwalior is the administrative headquarters of Gwalior district and Gwalior division.
Gwalior
ग्वालियर | |
|---|---|
Metro Politian City | |
 Panoramic view of Gwalior Fort | |
| Nickname: The City of Scindia | |
| Country | India |
| State | Madhya Pradesh |
| Region | Gird |
| District | Gwalior |
| Founded by | Raja Suraj Sen |
| Named for | Saint Gwalipa |
| Government | |
| • Mayor | Mrs. Sameeksha Gupta (elected 15 December 2009) |
| Area | |
| • Total | 362 km2 (140 sq mi) |
| Elevation | 196 m (643 ft) |
| Population (2011) | |
| • Total | 1,053,505 |
| • Rank | 40th among Indian Cities |
| • Density | 445/km2 (1,150/sq mi) |
| Languages | |
| • Official | Hindi and English |
| Time zone | UTC+5:30 (IST) |
| PIN | 474001 (HPO) |
| Vehicle registration | MP-07 |
| Website | City's Website |
It is famous for Gwalior Fort, which has changed hands many times. From the Tomaras in the 8th century, it passed to the Mughals, then the Marathas under the Scindias (1754).
The city has several important educational institutions, including the Atal Bihari Vajpayee - Indian Institute of Information Technology and Management, Indian Institute of Tourism and Travel Management, Scindia School, Madhav Institute of Technology and Science, Laxmibai National Institute of Physical Education. Gwalior has five government universities: Jiwaji University, Maharaja Maan Singh Tomar music and arts university, Rajmata Vijyarahe Scindia agricultural university, Laxmibai National University of Physical Education and ABV-IIITM government universities. A few private institutions are also well known in this region, such as Aditya College, ITM University, Amity University, and others.
Gwalior can be seen as the headquarters of the Chambal Region[citation needed], and it is surrounded by industrial and commercial zones of neighboring districts (Malanpur - Bhind, Banmor - Morena) at all three main directions. Gwalior is the fourth largest city of Madhya Pradesh and is often referred to as the tourist capital of the state. Gwalior was the capital of Madhya Bharat (1947–1956) before the creation of the Madhya Pradesh state.
Origin of name
According to local tradition, Gwalior owes its name to a sage of former times. Suraj Sen, a prince of the Kachhwaha clan of the eighth century, is said to have lost his way in the jungle. On a secluded hill, he met an old man, the sage Gwalipa, whose influence almost took him by surprise. Upon asking the sage for some drinking water, he was led to a pond; the waters not only quenched his thirst but cured him of leprosy. Out of gratefulness, the prince wished to offer the sage something in return, and the sage asked him to build a wall on the hill in order to protect the other sages from wild animals which often disturbed their yagnas (or pujas). Suraj Sen later built a palace inside the fort, which was named "Gwalior" after the sage; eventually the city that grew around the fort took the same name.
History
Gwalior may have been held by the Guptas or some of their disciples, but the oldest historical evidence shows the fort was conquered by the Hunas in the early sixth century. The evidence for this is a stone inscription of the time of Mihirakula recording the construction of a temple to the sun god. It is now in India Museum, Calcutta.[1] Subsequently, Gwalior was taken by Gurjar Pratihars of Kannauj.[2] From inscription found such as Rakhetra stone inscription, scholars assert that Gwalior was under the possession of Gurjara Pratiharas until at least 942 AD.[3]
In the 10th century, after Gurjara Pratiharas, Gwalior was taken by the Kachwaha Rajputs. Qutb-ud-din Aybak captured the city in 1196. Shamsud-din Altamsh took control of the area in 1232. By the 15th century the city had a noted singing school which was attended by Tansen. Gwalior was ruled by the Mughals and then the Marathas.
Scindia state of Gwalior
Scindia is a Maratha clan in India. This clan included rulers of the Gwalior State in the 18th and 19th centuries, collaborators of the colonial British government during the 19th and the 20th centuries until India became independent, as well as politicians in independent India.
The Scindia state of Gwalior became a major regional power in the second half of the 18th century and figured prominently in the three Anglo-Maratha Wars. (Gwalior first fell to the British in 1780.) The Scindias held significant power over many of the Rajput states, and conquered the state of Ajmer. During the Indian Rebellion of 1857 the city was briefly held by rebel forces in 1858 until they were defeated by the British.[4] The Scindia family ruled Gwalior until India's independence from the United Kingdom in 1947, when the Maharaja Jivajirao Scindia acceded to the Government of India. Gwalior was merged with a number of other princely states to become the new Indian state of Madhya Bharat. George Jivajirao served as the state's rajpramukh, or appointed governor, from 28 May 1948 to 31 October 1956, when Madhya Bharat was merged into Madhya Pradesh.
In 1962, Rajmata Vijayraje Scindia, the widow of Maharaja Jiwajirao, was elected to the Lok Sabha, beginning the family's career in electoral politics. She was first a member of the Congress Party, and later became an influential member of the Bharatiya Janata Party.
Demographics
As of 2011[update] India census,[5] Gwalior has a population of 1,053,505. Males constitute 53% of the population and females 47%. Gwalior has an average literacy rate of 85.20%, higher than the national average of 74%: male literacy is 90.85%, and female literacy is 78.82%. In Gwalior, 13% of the population is under 6 years of age.
Geography
Gwalior is located at 26°13′N 78°11′E / 26.22°N 78.18°E.[6] in northern Madhya Pradesh 300 km (186 miles) from Delhi. It has an average elevation of 197 metres (646 feet).
Climate
| Gwalior | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| Climate chart (explanation) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Gwalior has a sub-tropical climate with hot summers from late March to early July, the humid monsoon season from late June to early October, and a cool dry winter from early November to late February. Under Köppen's climate classification the city has a humid subtropical climate. The highest recorded temperature was 48 °C and the lowest was −1 °C.
Summers start in late March, and along with other cities like Nagpur and Delhi, are among the hottest in India and the world. Temperatures peak in May and June with daily averages being around 33–35 °C (93–95 °F), and end in late June with the onset of the monsoon. Gwalior receives 970 mm (39 in) of rain every year, most of which is concentrated in the monsoon months from late June to early October. August is the wettest month with about 310 mm (12 in) of rain. Winter in Gwalior starts in late October, and is generally very mild with daily temperatures averaging in the 14–16 °C (58–62 °F) range, and mostly dry and sunny conditions. January is the coldest month with average lows in the 5–7 °C range (40–45 °F) and occasional cold snaps that plummet temperatures to close to freezing.
Gwalior can be visited from late October to early March without much discomfort, but the months from April to June should be avoided due to the extreme heat. The monsoon months see sustained, torrential rainfall and risk of disease, and should also generally be avoided.
Citrus fruits are grown here using irrigation methods.
| Climate data for Gwalior | |||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | Year |
| Mean daily maximum °C (°F) | 22.9 (73.2) |
26.5 (79.7) |
32.7 (90.9) |
38.7 (101.7) |
42.1 (107.8) |
40.6 (105.1) |
34.5 (94.1) |
32.0 (89.6) |
32.7 (90.9) |
33.2 (91.8) |
29.3 (84.7) |
24.4 (75.9) |
32.5 (90.5) |
| Mean daily minimum °C (°F) | 7.1 (44.8) |
10.0 (50.0) |
15.8 (60.4) |
22.2 (72.0) |
27.2 (81.0) |
29.5 (85.1) |
26.6 (79.9) |
25.3 (77.5) |
23.9 (75.0) |
18.4 (65.1) |
11.5 (52.7) |
7.4 (45.3) |
18.7 (65.7) |
| Average precipitation mm (inches) | 16.5 (0.65) |
8.0 (0.31) |
7.0 (0.28) |
2.6 (0.10) |
8.9 (0.35) |
78.7 (3.10) |
261.6 (10.30) |
312.9 (12.32) |
146.2 (5.76) |
42.6 (1.68) |
4.2 (0.17) |
7.7 (0.30) |
900.0 (35.43) |
| Source: IMD | |||||||||||||
Transportation infrastructure
The city is well connected by railway, road, and air methods of transportation.
Roads
Gwalior is fairly well-connected to other parts of Madhya Pradesh and India with national and state highways. The proposed North-south-Corridor of the Golden-Quadrilateral Highway project passes through the city. The Agra-Bombay national highway (NH3) passes through Gwalior, connecting it to Shivpuri on one end and Agra on the other. The city is connected to the Jhansi by the National Highway 75, towards the south of the city. In the Northern, the city is connected to the holy city of Mathura via National Highway 3. There are bus services to and from all major and minor cities near Gwalior, including Bhopal, Agra, Delhi, Jabalpur, Jhansi, Bhind, Morena,Dholpur, Etawah, Datia, Jaipur and Indore.
Air
Gwalior Airport (IATA: GWL, ICAO: VIGR), also called Rajmata Vijya Raje Scindia Vimantal, is the airport of Gwalior. It has an Indian Air Force Base which stations Mirage bombers.
- Airlines and destinations
| Airlines | Destination |
|---|---|
| Air India | Mumbai, New Delhi |
| Air India Regional | New Delhi, Jabalpur |
| Ventura Airconnect | Bhopal, Indore, Jabalpur |
Local transport
Gwalior's public transport system mainly consists of Tempos, auto rickshaw taxis, and micro-buses. Municipal corporation's "Gwalior City Bus" covers some routes in the city. Radio taxis are also available in Gwalior. The Tempos and auto-rickshaws are often cited as a cause of pollution and road congestion, and the local government has plans to replace the Tempos with vans that will run on liquefied petroleum gas. However, taken in itself, this solution ignores the congestion and pollution caused by private cars, which is far more significant, especially considering that the impact of private cars is actually caused for the benefit of a very small section of the city's population.
Gwalior Fort
At the heart of Gwalior is Gwalior Fort, improved by Raja Man Singh Tomar where a previous structure existed, of the Tomar dynasty. This formidable structure was reputed to be one of the most structurally sound forts of India. It occupies an isolated rock outcrop. The hill is steepened to make it virtually unscalable and is surrounded by high walls which enclose buildings from several periods. The old town of Gwalior lies at the eastern base of the fortress. Lashkar, formerly a separate town that originated as a military camp, lies to the south, and Morar, also a formerly separate town, lies to the east. Gwalior, Lashkar and Morar are presently part of the Gwalior Municipality. [citation needed]
The massive Gwalior Fort, popularly called "the Gibraltar of India", overlooks the city. The Emperor Babur reputedly described it as "the pearl in the necklace of the forts of Hind". This fort's architecture is unique. It displays a Chinese influence on Indian architecture, as Chinese dragons have been crafted at the hilt of the pillars. This influence was due to trade between China and India during the fort's period of construction.
After the death of Sher Shah Suri in 1545, who was ruling North India at that time, his son Islam Shah shifted his capital from Delhi to Gwalior and constructed 'Sher Shah Mandir' or Palace/Fort in the memory of his father Sher Shah Suri. Islam Shah operated from Gwalior until his death in 1553. Islam Shah had appointed the Hindu warrior 'Hemu' or Hem Chandra Vikramaditya as his Prime Minister in Sher Shah Fort for the first time, who later on became the Hem Chandra Vikramaditya king at Delhi and established 'Hindu Raj' in North India, by virtue of winning 22 battles continuously from Punjab to Bengal and defeating Akbar's army in Agra and Delhi on 6 October 1556.
In the east of the city are two magnificent examples of early Mughal architecture: the mausoleum of the 16th century Sufi Saint Ghous Mohammed and the tomb of Mian Tansen, a great singer and one of the 'Nine Jewels' of the Mughal Emperor Akbar's court. Right next to them is the Gujari Mahal, built by Gujjar King Man Singh Tomar on demand of his consort Gujar princess "Mrignayani" (meaning "having eyes like deer").[7] The Mughal Emperor Akbar is also known to have organized hunting parties near Gwalior.[8]
Close to the heart of the city is splendid Jai Vilas Palace, patterned on the palace of Versailles; it combines Tuscan, Italian and Corinthian styles of architecture.
Rich in cultural heritage and architectural marvels, Gwalior has the added advantage of its proximity to Agra, the city of the Taj Mahal; Khajuraho, the city of great temples; and Delhi, the national capital.
Historically and architecturally, Gwalior is interesting first as a very ancient seat of Jain worship; second for its example of palace architecture of the best Hindu period (1486–1516); and third as an historic fortress. Many historical places are found near the Dabra-Bhitarwar Road. Prior to the founding of Gwalior, the region was also known by its ancient name of Gopasetra. The great Apabhramsha poet Pandit Raighu lived in Gwalior. Gwalior had an institutional seat of the Bhattarakas of Kashtha Sangh and later Mula Sangh.
According to history, the original fort of Gwalior was founded by the Bargujar Kings during the 34th/35th century of Kali yuga as per puranas available with them. His palace is the most interesting example of early Hindu work of its class in India. Another palace of even greater extent was added to this in 1516. The Mughal emperors, Jahangir and Shah Jahan, added palaces to these two, the whole making a group of edifices unequaled for picturesqueness and interest by anything of their class in central India. Among the apartments in the palace was the celebrated chamber, named the Baradari, supported on 12 columns, and 45 ft (15 m) square, with a stone roof, forming one of the most beautiful palace-halls in the world. It was, besides, singularly interesting from the expedients to which the Hindu architect was forced to resort to imitate the vaults of the Muslims. Of the buildings, however, which so excited the admiration of the first Mughal emperor Babur, probably little now remains.
Jai Vilas Palace in Lashkar is a marvelous palace museum, part of which is open to the public and gives a glimpse into the life of the royal family. The fort area is also home of the Scindia School, a well-regarded institution founded by the late Maratha Maharaja Madhavraoji Shinde of Gwalior in 1897.
Teli kā Mandir
The Telikā Mandir, or 'oil-man's temple', owes its name to Teli, a term for an oil grinder or oil dealer. Many suggestions have been put forward to explain this name historically, but in fact the name is not old, the temple being used for processing oil before the British occupied the fort and used the building, albeit temporarily, as a coffee shop. The Telikā Mandir is the loftiest temple among all the buildings in Gwalior Fort with a height of about 30m. The temple consists of a garba griha, that is, sanctum proper for the deity, and an antarala to enter into the temple. It can be approached by a flight of steps provided on the eastern side. The most striking feature of the temple is the wagon-vaulted roof, a form used over rectangular shrines which normally accommodated a row of Mother Goddesses.[9] The goddesses from the interior vanished centuries ago and have not been traced, even in fragments. The exterior walls of the temple are richly decorated with sculptures, many of which are damaged; the niches, shaped like temples, are empty. The building carries a dedicatory inscription to the goddess in a niche on the southern side, but otherwise does not have any history.[10] The architectural style, discussed by a number of architectural historians, points to a date in the late 8th Century.[11] The building was erected just as the Gurjara Pratihāras were asserting their power over central India. The entrance gateway on the eastern side is a later addition of the British period, made by Major Keith in 1881. It was built as a way of saving various historic pillars and other pieces no longer in their original context.
Jain rock-cut sculptures
A striking part of the Jain remains at Gwalior is a series of caves or rock-cut sculptures, excavated in the rock on all sides, and numbering nearly a hundred, great and small. Most of them are mere niches to hold statues, though some are cells that may have been originally intended for residences. According to inscriptions, they were all excavated within a short period of about thirty-three years, between 1441 and 1474. One of the colossal figures is 57 ft (17 m) high, taller than any other in northern India.
Gurudwara Data Bandi
Gwalior Fort also has the Gurudwara Data Bandi, built in the memory of the sixth Sikh, Guru Har Gobind. This Gurudwara is particularly large and grand, built entirely of marble with coloured glass decorating the main building. Recital of the Guru Granth Sahib creates a peaceful and sacred atmosphere. Mughal kings used to visit Gwalior regularly. During the Sikh genocide of 1984, many Sikhs were burned alive here. There is a Gurdwara that was converted to a mandir of "kalli devi" and process is on to take it back by Sikhs.
Sun temple gwalior
A temple built by Birla group is dedicated to the Sun god, the Sun Temple is located near residency at Morar, Gwalior. It is a facsimile of the famous Sun temple of Konark, Orissa and now this sun temple is one among the significant pilgrimage centers in Gwalior. It is the place which gives best examples of peace and neatness in gwalior.
The temple is located in a serene ambience and a well-maintained garden within the temple premises is very attractive. This holy temple draws the locals and tourists alike who gather here to render their prayers. It makes one astounded that a shrine of comparatively modern origin holds such a highest regard, and became one among the most sought after pilgrimage centers in the city.
Revolt of 1857
Gwalior is also known for its participation in the 1857 revolt, mainly due to Rani Lakshmibai's involvement. After Kalpi (Jhansi) fell into the hands of the British on 24 May 1858, Lakshmibai sought shelter at Gwalior Fort. The Maharaja of Gwalior was not willing to give up his fort without a fight as he was a nominal ally of the British, but after negotiations, his troops capitulated and the rebels took possession of the fort. The British wasted no time in attacking Gercest, the bloodiest battle ever fought on Indian soil. {{citation}}: Empty citation (help) Indian forces numbered around 20,000, and British forces around 1600. Lakshmibai's example is remembered to this day by Indian nationalists. She died fighting, and Gwalior was captured. Tatya Tope and Rao Sahib escaped.[12] Tantya Tope was later captured and hanged in April 1859.
Art and culture
Gwalior is a well acknowledged place of art, associated with historic as well as contemporary evidence. In August 2005 a mural created by Aasutosh Panigrahi and five other artists was acknowledged as the World's Largest Indoor Mural by Guinness World Records.
Marathi Sahitya Sammelan, the conference on Marathi Literature were held once in Gwalior City. It was presided by President of the Conference writer Kusumavati Deshpande (and wife of Kavi Anil) in 1961. She was the first female president of the annual Sammelan since its inception in 1878.
Culturally Gwalior is the confluence of two rich cultures Bundeli and Braj. Bundelkhand covers Gwalior, Bhind, Morena, Sagar, Shivpuri, Guna, Sheopur and adjoining areas.
Music
Gwalior is also known as the City of Music. Tansen, born in Behat, trained in music at Vrindavan, served Raja Ramchandra Waghela of Bandhawgarh, then went to Agra under the patronage of Akbar. After the death of Tansen in Fatehpur Sikri and cremation in Agra, his ashes were buried in Gwalior. Tansen Samaroh is held every year in Gwalior. Sarod Maestro Ustad Amjad Ali Khan is also from the royal city of Gwalior. His grandfather Ghulam Ali Khan Bangash became a court musician in Gwalior.
Gwalior holds an unparalleled reputation in Sangeet. Baijnath Prasad (alias Baiju Bawra) was a classical singer (Dhrupadiya) who lived in Gwalior for his whole life under the patronage of Man Singh. Baiju was born in Chanderi and was cremated there. He received his musical training in Brindaban under Swami Guru Haridas Ji. He was the court musician of Gwalior along with Nayak Charju, Bakshu, and others.
Gwalior Gharana
The Gwalior Gharana is one of the oldest Khayal Gharanas and one to which most classical Indian musicians can trace the origin of their style. The rise of the Gwalior Gharana started with the reign of the great Mughal emperor Akbar (1542–1605). The favorite singers of this patron of the arts, such as Miyan Tansen, first amongst the vocalists at the court, came from the town of Gwalior. Gwalior has an important role in the journey of music in India, so much that every year, the Tansen Festival is celebrated at the tomb of Tansen in Gwalior.
Dhrupad
Dhrupad (Hindi: ध्रुपद) is a vocal genre in Hindustani classical music, said to be the oldest still in use in that musical tradition. Its name is derived from the words "dhruva" (fixed) and "pada" (words). The term may denote both the verse form of the poetry and the style in which it is sung. Raja Man Singh Tomar, the King of Gwalior between 1486-1516 AD, was a patron of Dhrupad.
Tansen Sangeet Samaroh
The famous Tansen Sangeet Samaroh, or the Tansen Music Festival, is celebrated every year on the Tansen Tomb in Gwalior. Tansen Samaroh is a platform where artists from all over India gather and participate to deliver vocal and instrumental performances. Gwalior's environment during the festival turns mystical with melodious music echoing. Music lovers from far and wide make it a point to be a part of this event at any cost, as it’s a memorable experience for them. The Tansen Sangeet Samaroh is organized by the government of MP, in association with the Academy of the department of culture in MP. During the festival, music lovers and artists from all over the world gather to offer their bit of tribute to the all-time music Maestro Tansen. To date, this festival has the honor of being the only musical show in Gwalior that takes place on multiple days and nights. The academy offers honors to senior celebrities and junior artists by including them in the Samaroh through their music of performance. Tansen was a legendary singer of Akbar’s mughal court. Tansen, a legendary exponent of the Hindustani classical music's dhrupad style, was counted among the Nine Jewels of the Royal Court. In remembrance of this exemplary artist there is a tomb constructed in Gwalior called the Tansen Tomb. This is where the Tansen Music Festival or the Tansen Samaroh is organized every year. This annual music festival started in the 1930s. The passage of time has only glorified the status of this annual historic event. At present, renowned artists from all over the country come to perform and exhibit their excellence while in turn mesmerizing the audience. The venue Gwalior has retained Indian traditions and the wealth of music intact over the years. The famous Gwalior Gharana of music is actually inspired by the Tansen style of music. In all, the four-day musical extravaganza called Tansen Samaroh is an audio as well as visual treat, seeing the exemplary and renowned music expertise in artists all over India dedicating their bit of honor to the greatest ever musical mentor, Tansen. The Tansen Music Festival, or Tansen Samaroh, is held every year in the month of December. The experience of melodious music with the chilling weather of autumn makes it an ecstatic festival.
Main festivals
All national festivals, Diwali, Bhai Dooj, Holi, Makara Sankranti, Eid-ul-Fitr, Christmas, Rakhi, Mahavir jayanti, and other local ones such as Nag-Panchmi, Shreenath Mahadji Maharaj Punyatithi, Ganesh Utsav, Gangaur, Teej, Gudi Padwa (Marathi New Year), Navratri, Dussehara, Durga Puja are celebrated with equal enthusiasm. Last decade has seen a rise in the celebration of events like Valentine's Day, Rose Day and New Year's Eve.
Ganesh Chaturthi is celebrated in a unique way in Gwalior City. People of Gwalior arrange a carnival of floats (known as "Jhanki" in the local Hindi language) in various places of the city.
Gwalior also celebrates Rang Panchami quite differently. This festival is celebrated five days after Dulendi or Holi. This is also celebrated like Dulendi, but colors are mixed with water and then either sprinkled or poured on others.
Makar Sankranti is a 'Kite Festival' on 14 January each year; people fly kites and compete to cut each other's kites in the sky.
Media and communication
- Print media: Here are a number of newspapers, magazines, local TV stations and four FM Radio stations.
SouLSteer Magazine a bi-monthly lifestyle and automotive magazine in Gwalior that is popular among every age group.
Patrika is the leading Newspaper and Dainik Bhaskar is one of the oldest and most widely read newspapers. Swadesh and Naidunia are among well established newspapers.
Other popular newspapers published in Gwalior are BPN Times, Raj Express, Dainik Madhya Raj, Nav Bharat,Youth Engine, Dainik Jagran, People's Samachar, Dainik Adityaz.
Evening newspapers : Sandhya Samachaar, Sudarshan.
- Electronic media: The radio industry has expanded with a number of private FM channels being introduced. The FM radio channels that broadcast in the city include Big FM (92.7 MHz), Radio Chaska FM (95 MHz), My FM (94.3 MHz), and Raseela (91.9 MHz). State-owned company, Doordarshan, transmits two terrestrial television channels. The city has local TV stations from various companies. Major local channels include Hathway Win, Harsh Networks, KMJ Communications, and DEN networks.
- Communication services : Gwalior is covered by a large network of optical fibre cables. There are three fixed telephone line operators in the city: BSNL, Reliance and Airtel. There are eight mobile phone companies in which GSM players include BSNL, Reliance, Vodafone, Idea, Airtel, Tata DoCoMo, Aircel, Videocon; CDMA services offered by BSNL, Virgin Mobile, Tata Indicom and Reliance.
- Entertainment : Gwalior has three shopping malls, DD City Mall with Fun Cinemas multiplex, Maya-Gitanjali Mall with Gold Digital Multiplex and the Central Mall. Salasar Mall City Centre, similarly to DD City Mall, also contains a multiplex. There are several gaming zones, three Discothèques (DnD, Barcode, and Spectrum), and a water park in Gwalior. "Sun City Amusement Park" is a family entertainment center in Gwalior. There is also a water park close to Oxford Public School on Jhansi Road. The SouLSteer Club is an exclusive car-owners club in Gwalior.
Education
Gwalior has seven universities: Amity University Madhya Pradesh, Jiwaji University, Lakshmi Bai National University for Physical Education, Atal Bihari Vajpayee - Indian Institute of Information Technology and Management, Gwalior (an institute of national importance), R.V.S. Agriculture University, and Raja Maan Singh Music and Arts University. Some esteemed colleges and institutes include Madhav Institute of Technology and Science, an autonomous body and one of many excellent engineering colleges in M.P.; Rustamji Institute of Technology, the first Engineering College in India established by a para-military force; Indian Institute of Tourism and Travel Management; and the Indian Institute of Hotel Management.
Gwalior also comprises of many computer institutes which are spreading computer education in all over gwalior distt. Some of them are NIIT Phoolbagh, Jetking, Prateek institutes, Someone instiute, SSI, IITECH, Viva technologies, Wintel and many more ...
Some of the major companies at Gwalior are also changing the practical scenario of the education via trainings and workshops, notably Peregrine Aerotech Pvt. Ltd., City Center, Gwalior.
Economy of Gwalior
Gwalior enjoys being at a very strategic position as being a main junction on New Delhi - Chennai railroad and being on NH-3 and NH-75. Gwalior is surrounded by 3 Industrial areas - Sitholi, Banmore and Malanpur. All three of these sectors are on NH 75, NH-3 and NH 92 respectively, with Malanpur being the largest. The city used to have big manufacturing industries, such as Gwalior Grasim and J.C.MILLS of Birlanagar, but now this sector is left with only one industry - J.B.Mangharam Ltd. But the other 3 sectors have many industries. The important are from dairy, chemical, manufacturing, textiles, and other industries. Handicraft and small industries are also found like Gwalior potteries. Gwalior is also an important historical and tourism sector of the country. Therefore, the tourism sector also puts an effect into the city's economy. Gwalior is part of NCR. The Gwalior Trade Fair is an annual trade fair showcasing the economy of Gwalior. There are some manufacturing set-ups of some companies like Cadbury, J. K. Tyres, Surya Bulbs, and SynRam.
Areas of the city
This section needs expansion. You can help by adding to it. (August 2012) |
The old town
The old town of Gwalior, commonly called Hazira, which is of considerable size but irregularly built, lies at the eastern base of the rock. It contains the tomb of the Sufi saint Khwaja Khanoon & Muhammad Ghawth, erected during the early part of Mughal emperor Akbar’s reign, and the tomb of Mian Tansen, a great singer and one of the 'Nine Jewels' of Akbar's court. A town called by his name Ghauspura situated near the tomb of Mohaommed Ghaus.
Close to the heart of the city is splendid Jai Vilas Palace, patterned on the French palace of Versailles. The town has a museum situated in the Gujari Mahal.
Lashkar
The name of Lashkar is a Persian word meaning 'army' or 'camp', as this was originally the camp, and later the permanent capital, of the Scindia dynasty of Gwalior state. Lashkar was the capital of Madhya Bharat from 1950 to 1956.
Jayaji Chowk is the central focus of Lashkar, with a large square, a former opera house, banks, tea, coffee and juice stands and a municipal market building. Thriving bazaars surround the chowk. Many jewelry shops are situated near Jayaji Chowk aka Maharaj bada. A source of water for the city is Tighra Dam, built on Saank river 20 km north of here. The Gajra Raja Medical College, founded in 1946 by the Maharaja Jiwaji Rao Scindia and the Maharani Vijayaraje Scindia, is situated in Lashkar on Palace Road, near Katora Taal, together with a group of many hospitals.
Morar
Morar, formerly a separate town, lies three miles (5 km) east of the old city. It was formerly a British military cantonment. Morar is generally considered a rural farming town. The area is known as the green part of Gwalior because much of the area is still rural.
Morar was the scene of the most serious uprising in Central India. On June 1, 1858 Jayajirao led his forces to Morar to fight a rebel army led by Tatya Tope, Rani Lakshmibai and Rao Sahib. This army had 7,000 infantry, 4,000 cavalry and 12 guns while he had only 1,500 cavalry, his bodyguard of 600 men and 8 guns. He waited for their attack which came at 7 o'clock in the morning; in this attack the rebel cavalry took the guns and most of the Gwalior forces except the bodyguard went over to the rebels (some deserted). The Maharaja and the remainder fled without stopping until they reached the British garrison at Agra.[13] By 1900 it had become a centre for local trade and had an important training industry, with a population of 19,179 in 1901.
The second Temple of the Sun in India (after the Konark Sun Temple) is situated in Morar at Residency Road. This Sun Temple was built by the Aditya Birla Trust.
The cantonment area makes up a large area of Morar which contains official residences for the Indian Army. It has many canteens for Army personnel. Saint Paul's School and Pragati Vidyapeeth School are nearby. There is an air force base in the Pinto Park region.
Thatipur
Thatipur is said to have got its name from State Army Unit 34, which once resided there. Gandhi Road divides Thatipur into two areas. On going along the road, one enters Morar at one end and Balwant Nagar on the other. It primarily consists of Darpan Colony, Madhav Rao Scindhiya Enclave, the government blocks, Vivek Nagar, and Suresh Nagar. Places of note are the Dwarikadhish Mandir, Bhagwan colony, the Tomar building, Chauhan Pyau, Galla Kothar, Ramkrishna Aashram, Saraswati Nagar, Govindpuri, Gayatri Vihar, Shakti Vihar, Shakuntalapuri, Shanti Vihar, and Mayur market along with Sai Baba Mandir in Shakti Vihar Colony.
Healthcare
The prominent hospitals of Gwalior include Gajara Raja Medical College and the associated J.A. Hospital, Kamla Raja Hospital, Sahara Hospital, Mascot Hospital, Birla Hospital, Cancer Hospital & Research Institute and many good private doctor clinics. The Cancer Hospital & Research Institute is a nationally acclaimed medical center in Oncology. There is also a charitable hospital named SATCH Shri Anandpur Trust Charitable Hospital where treatment is totally free. There is a government Ayurvedic college and a private homeopathic college (Vasundhara Raje Homoeopathic Medical College) which is run by the Biochemic and Homoeopathic Association of Gwalior, also providing health care education and services.
Sports in Gwalior
Lakshmibai National University for Physical Education (operational since 1957[citation needed]) is one of the largest physical education institutions in the country. Gwalior also has The Railway Hockey Stadium with artificial turf. Roop Singh Stadium is a cricket ground with a capacity of 45,000. The stadium has hosted 10 One Day International (ODI) matches. Of the 10 matches played so far, the first one was played between India and West Indies on 22 January 1988. The ground has flood lights and has hosted day-night encounters as well. One match of the 1996 Cricket World Cup was also played on this ground, between India and West Indies. This ground is famous for hosting the ODI between India and South Africa in which Sachin Tendulkar scored a double century. Athletics are also played in this city.
Future developments
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Various governments schemes are now been introduced in Gwalior. Not only government-issued projects, but also private projects have also been introduced[citation needed]. The most important of all these is the SADA counter magnet city, which is under the Indian urban development NCR plan. It has also been introduced to increase the investments in the sectors such as Education, Industry, and real estate. Along with SADA, other projects like SALASAR HEIGHTS, SAHARA city homes, WINDSOR hills, ELIXIR MK city, SUNIL MANTRI city (SADA, WEST Gwalior[citation needed]) have been proposed. The city also hosted the MADHYA PRADESH INVESTURE MEET 2009 and received a tremendous response from the investors[citation needed]. However, the closing of prominent industries like Hotline, Cimmco, Grasim Gwalior resulted in a huge downfall in Gwalior's economical market, but now the revival process has successfully begun.
Places of interest
- Maharaj Bada is the biggest and most important market of Gwalior. Seven ancient buildings of different styles of architecture (Italian, Russian, Mughal, Rajputi, Chinese, etc.) can be viewed.
- Gopachal Parvat is situated on the mountainous terrain at the slopes of Gwalior Fort. Gopachal Parvat contains unique statues of Jain Tirthankaras. The idol of Lord Parshvanath seated on a lotus (carved out of a single stone) is the largest in the world, towering at 47 feet in height and 30 feet in breadth. There is a series of 26 Jain statues in a single line. Built between 1398 and 1536 by Tomar kings, these Jain Tirthankar statues are one of a kind in architecture and a treasure trove of old Indian heritage and culture. Gopachal Parvat is located approximately 2 km from the railway station and bus stand.
- Tomb of Rani Lakshmibai, a famous freedom fighter, at Phoolbag area. It is here where the great warrior queen of Jhansi died in 1858 fighting against the British. It is also her burial place.
- Municipality Museum, one of the importants museum of the city is situated a little distance from Rani Lakshmibai's tomb.
Municipality Museum - Vivsvaan Mandir (Sun Temple), A newly built temple dedicated to the Sun god, the Sun Temple is located near the residency at Morar, Gwalior. It is a facsimile of the famous Sun temple of Konark, Orissa and now this sun temple is one among the significant pilgrimage centers in Gwalior. The temple is located in a serene ambiance and a well-maintained garden within the temple premises is very attractive. This holy temple draws the locals and tourists alike who gather here to render their prayers. It makes one astounded that a shrine of comparatively modern origin is held in such high regard, and became one among the most sought after pilgrimage centers in the city.
- Jai Vilas Mahal is the residential palace turned museum of Scindias in the heart of the city. The palace has notable collections of antiques and also some of the old time gadgets and collections that can't be easily seen.The museum is one of the largest in Madhya Pradesh and has the world's largest chandelier and the complex is a mixture of British as well as Hindu architecture. The palace was made in 1874 as an attempt to bring the palace of Versailles to Gwalior and the Jai Vilas Palace was a successful attempt.
Jai Vilas Palace - Gwalior trade fair was started in 1905 by Maharaja Madho Rao, king of Gwalior. It has become the biggest fair of Madhya Pradesh and, indeed, one of the most colorful fairs of India. It starts in the second week of January and continues until February.
- Modern 5D is the MP's first multi-dimensional theater launched in the 2011 trade fair of Gwalior. It was built by Gwalior's leading enterprise Modern Techno Projects (P) Ltd. Modern 5D is recognized as India's first own multi-dimensional theater.
- Shyam Vatika is a banquet hall which has the world's largest indoor mural, as recognized by Guinness World Records.
- Chatris of Scindias is situated close to the city near Achaleshwar temple and is the burial place for the Scindias who ruled the city for many years. Designated persons like Maharaja Madhavrao Scindia, Vijayaraje Scindia and His Highness Jivajirao Scindia are creamated here.
Heritage road in front of Chatris of Scindias - Tansen's tomb: Gwalior is the birthplace of the famous musician Tansen. He was one of the nine gems of Akbar.
- Gaus Mohammad tomb: Great Gaus Mohammad tomb and the smaller Tansen tomb are situated on the same territory.
Gwalior Fort
Babar used to say about that this fort was a pearl among the fortresses of India. It stands on an isolated rock, overlooking the Gwalior town, and contains a number of historic buildings. It is one of the biggest forts in India and a postage stamp has been issued by the Indian Postal Service to commemorate the importance of this fort. From historical records, it is established that it was built in the 8th century. The fortress and the city have been integral to the history of the kingdoms of North India. It is said that the Mughal Emperor Babur (1483–1531) described it as "the pearl in the necklace of the forts of Hind". The fort, also given the epithet "Gibraltar of India', provides a panoramic view of the old Gwalior town, which is to its east.
- Gujari Mahal-Within the fort are some marvels of medieval architecture. The 15th century Gujari Mahal is a monument to the love of Raja Mansingh Tomar for his intrepid Gujar Queen, Mrignayani. The outer structure of Gujari Mahal has survived in an almost total state of preservation; the interior has been converted into Archaeological Museum housing rare antiquities, some of them dating back to the 1st century A.D. Even though many of these have been defaced by the iconoclastic Mughals, their perfection of form has survived the ravages of time. Particularly worth seeing is the statue of Shalbhanjika from Gyraspur, the tree goddess, the epitome of perfection in miniature. The statue is kept in the custody of the museum's curator, and can be seen on request.
- Sas – bahu temple- A 9th Century shrine, Saas-Bahu temple in the fort allures not only the devotees but also the tourists with its artistic value. Despite what its name may suggest, these temples are not dedicated to Sas (mother-in-law) and Bahu (daughter-in-law) but rather the short form of Shashtra Bahu, another name of Lord Vishnu. These temples situated adjacent to each other and the larger one is elaborately decorated with beautiful carvings and sculptures. The roof of the larger temple is adorned with a marvelous lotus carving which is very fascinating. These ancient temples display exceptional architectural brilliance and are a perfect destination for pious people.
- Teli Ka Mandir (Telangana Mandir)- A lofty structure of about 100 feet, Teli Ka Mandir in Gwalior Fort distinguishes itself from the other compositions of its time because of its unique architecture. Though the roof of the temple holds a Dravidian look, the sculptures are typically north Indian.
The temple bears a close resemblance to Prathihara Vishnu temple, and is filled with images of coiled serpents, passionate couples, river goddesses and a flying Garuda. The temple architecture follows Indo Aryan and Nagara style that exhibits superior artistic caliber. A marvelous temple, believed to be the oldest constructions in the fort gives enchanting experience to the visitor.
- Gwalior Zoo (Gandhi zoological Park)- This is one of the most lively and beautiful zoological parks of Madhya Pradesh. Its main attractions include Jamuna, a white tiger, serpents, golden pheasants, sambhar, hyena, bison, and others.
Sambhar at Gwalior zoo - Sarod Ghar-This Museum of Music has been set up in the old ancestral house of the legendary Ustad Hafiz Ali Khan. It houses ancient instruments of the great Indian Masters of yesteryear. It also houses an impressive collection of photographs and documents. Sarod Ghar is a unique institution devoted to promoting Indian classical music, heritage and culture. Through this 'window' to the past, music lovers can gain a better understanding of the evolution and history of our classical music and a deeper perspective and insight into the context of the art as it exists today.
- Roop Singh Stadium is a cricket ground. The stadium has hosted 10 One Day International (ODI) matches. Of the 10 matches played so far, the first one was played between India and West Indies on 22 January 1988. The ground has flood lights and has hosted day-night encounters as well. One match of the 1996 Cricket World Cup was also played on this ground, between India and West Indies. This ground is famous for hosting the ODI between India and South Africa in which Sachin Tendulkar scored a double century.
- City Mall, one of the biggest malls of Madhya Pradesh. A multi-storied grand structure, it houses shops and showrooms of many national and international brands and has a number of eateries, as well as a Fun Cinemas multiplex. There are also some international and world-famous fast food restaurants like Domino's Pizza and McDonald's in DD City Mall.
- Tighra Dam: located on the outskirts of the city, Tighra is a nice place for an outing. Tighra Dam is now being used to store water from the Sank river and supply water to the whole of the city.
| North: Morena, Bhind | ||
| West: Sheopur |
Gwalior | East: Datia |
| South:Shivpuri |
Famous personalities from Gwalior
- Amjad Ali Khan; sarod player and musician
- Atal Bihari Vajpayee; former Prime Minister of India.
- Ganesh Shankar Vidyarthi; Famous Hindi writer; born in Gwalior
- Jyotiraditya Scindia; Minister of Commerce and Industries
- Madhavrao Scindia; Indian politician and minister
- Nida Fazli; famous Urdu writer and poet
- Roop Singh; Indian hockey player and Olympian
- Salman Khan; famous bollywood actor
- Shahzad Rizvi; Indian-born American novelist, poet and scholar[14]
- Shivendra Singh; Indian national hockey player, born and lives in Gwalior
- Tansen; court musician of Akbar
- Vishal Kaim; hammer thrower
Gallery
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Sun Temple -
Tighra Dam -
Statue Guarding Entrance to Gujari Mahal -
One of the Seven Gates of the Gwalior Fort -
Gujari Mahal, now a museum, inside Gwalior Fort -
Sas-Bahu Ka Mandir at Gwalior Fort -
Former central press at Gwalior -
Beautiful Chinese hand craft work on the walls of Gwalior Fort
See also
- Gwalior State
- Gwalior Fort
- Scindia
- Maratha
- Maratha Empire
- List of Maratha dynasties and states
- IIITM Gwalior
- Social Activist Guru Radha Kishan
- Gajara Raja Medical College
- Gir Forest National Park
- In-situ conservation
- Jiwaji University
- Kuno Wildlife Sanctuary
- Muhammad Ghawth
- MITS Gwalior
- Shyam Vatika
References
- ^ Fleet, Inscriptions of the Early Gupta Kings and their Successors, (Corpus Inscriptionum Indicarum, vol. 3). Calcutta, 1888.
- ^ National Centre for Human Settlement and Environment (India) (1995). Vācham, Volume 6. National Centre for Human Settlements and Environment. p. 3.
- ^ Sisirkumar Mitra (1977). Early Rulers Of Khajuraho. Motilal Banarsidass Publ. ISBN 978-81-208-1997-9, ISBN 978-81-208-1997-9.
- ^ Columbia-Lippincott Gazetteer, p. 740
- ^ Template:Geographic reference
- ^ Falling Rain Genomics, Inc - Gwalior
- ^ India (Republic) Office of the Registrar General (1972). Census of India, 1961, Volume 14, Issue 5. Manager of Publications. p. 11.
- ^ http://www.google.com.pk/imgres?q=akbarnama&hl=en&biw=1024&bih=673&tbm=isch&tbnid=ixyEuEoV-Vu96M:&imgrefurl=http://www.superstock.com/stock-photos-images/475-638&docid=So7hrNVbFmZpHM&w=212&h=350&ei=VIiFTrXVPMPf4QTGspWHDw&zoom=1&iact=hc&vpx=244&vpy=281&dur=9662&hovh=280&hovw=169&tx=97&ty=205&page=3&tbnh=133&tbnw=82&start=41&ndsp=21&ved=1t:429,r:15,s:41
- ^ M. Willis, Temples of Gopakṣetra: A Regional History of Architecture in Central India (London, 1996).
- ^ Willis, Inscriptions of Gopakṣetra: Materials for the History of Central India (London, 1995), illustration.
- ^ Willis, Temples of Gopakṣetra.
- ^ "Rani Lakshmibai: the brave queen of Jhansi".
- ^ Edwardes, Michael (1975) Red Year. London: Sphere Books; p. 124
- ^ Slaeem, Muslim (April 5, 2011). "Dr. Shahzad Rizvi's new book gains tremendous popularity". Urdu Poets and Writers.
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