Nagpur

History of Nagpur

The present-day city of Nagpur was founded in the early 18th century by Bhakt Buland, a Gond prince of the Deogarh kingdom in Chhindwara district. Impressed by the advantages of urban life in Delhi, he began developing Nagpur as his new capital. His successor, Chand Sultan, continued the development.

After Chand Sultan's death in 1739, disputes over succession arose. Raghuji Bhonsle, the Maratha governor of Berar, intervened and gradually control of Nagpur passed from the Gonds to the Marathas. Nagpur subsequently became the capital of the Bhonsles.

The Bhonsle Era

Under the Bhonsle dynasty, Nagpur became an important political centre in the Vidarbha region. The successors of Raghuji lost some territories to the Peshwas of Pune and the Nizam. The Bhonsles were defeated by the British in 1803 at Assaye and Argaon.

In 1811, Nagpur was attacked by the Pindaris. The Bhonsles again faced the British in 1817, after which Nagpur came under British influence. In 1853, Raghuji III died without an heir and the kingdom came under British control through the Doctrine of Lapse introduced under Lord Dalhousie.

British Period and Modern Development

In 1861, Nagpur became the capital of the Central Provinces. The arrival of the Great Indian Peninsula Railway in 1867 stimulated the city's development as an important commercial centre.

After Indian independence, Nagpur became the capital of Madhya Bharat, also referred to in the source as C.P. and Berar. In 1960, the predominantly Marathi-speaking Vidarbha region became part of the newly formed state of Maharashtra, and Nagpur was designated the second capital of Maharashtra.

Nagpur has a rich historical and cultural heritage. Its strategic location almost at the geographical centre of India has also helped it develop into an important transportation and commercial hub.

How to Reach Nagpur

By Air

Nagpur has its own airport and regular flights connect the city with major destinations such as Delhi, Mumbai and Kolkata. Several airlines operate flights to and from Nagpur.

By Road

Because Nagpur is located almost at the centre of India, it has an extensive road network connecting it with cities across Maharashtra and other parts of the country.

• Aurangabad – approximately 504 km
• Khajuraho – approximately 546 km
• Bhopal – approximately 352 km
• Kanha – approximately 266 km

By Train

Nagpur railway station is centrally located and has helped the city develop into an important railway junction. Nagpur connects the Central and South-Eastern railway lines, with several important trains stopping at the station.

Shopping in Nagpur

Shopping is an important part of a visit to Nagpur. The city's strategic location and rich cultural heritage make its markets an interesting place to explore traditional products and souvenirs.

• Silk-border dhotis: Traditional men's clothing and a popular Nagpuri shopping item.
• Nagpur oranges: The city is famous for its sweet and juicy oranges.
• Kolhapuri Chappals: Traditional footwear from Maharashtra.
• Bidri Ware: Decorative traditional handicrafts.
• Lacquer products: Popular handicraft items available in local markets.
• Maharashtra handicrafts: Local bazaars offer a variety of traditional crafts and souvenirs.

Nagaur Fair

The source also mentions the Nagaur Fair, described as one of the largest cattle fairs in the country. It is held annually between late January and early February and attracts cattle, horses and camel owners from different regions.

The fair is known for the trading of cows, oxen, camels and horses. Camel and horse races, folk music and dance performances are also among the attractions.

Mirchi Bazaar

Mirchi Bazaar, or the Red Chilli Market, is one of the major attractions of the fair. Visitors can find wooden articles, iron handicrafts, leather accessories, local crafts, clothing and jewellery.

• Camel races
• Horse races
• Tug-of-war competitions
• Folk music and dance performances
• Local handicrafts and jewellery

Hotels in Nagpur

• The Pride Hotel
• Hotel Orange City
• Heritage Hotel 2001
• Hotel Darshan Towers
• Airport Center Point
• The Pride Hotel, Nagpur
• Tuli International