Dhar district facts for kids

Dhar district is a district located in the central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh. The main town and administrative center of the district is Dhar, which is a place with a lot of history.

About Dhar District

Dhar district is part of the Malwa region, which is known for its beautiful plateau. The district is surrounded by other districts like Ratlam to the north, Ujjain to the northeast, Indore to the east, and Khargone to the southeast. To the south, it borders Barwani, and to the west, it touches Jhabua and Alirajpur.

Geography and Climate

The land in Dhar district is mostly flat, being part of the Malwa Plateau. However, some parts have hills, especially towards the south and west. The Vindhya Range of mountains passes through the district, adding to its varied landscape. The main rivers flowing through Dhar district are the Narmada, which forms part of its southern border, and the Mahi and Chambal rivers, which flow through other parts.

The climate here is generally moderate. Summers can be hot, but winters are pleasant and cool. The district gets most of its rain during the monsoon season, which is from June to September. This rainfall is very important for farming, which is a big part of the local economy.

A Look at History

Dhar has a very long and interesting history. It was once the capital of the Paramara dynasty, a powerful kingdom that ruled this region from the 9th to the 13th century. One of the most famous rulers was Bhoja, who was not only a great warrior but also a scholar and a patron of arts and learning. He is remembered for building many temples and for his knowledge.

Later, the district came under the rule of the Delhi Sultanate and then the Mughal Empire. In the 18th century, it became part of the Maratha Empire under the Puar dynasty. The town of Dhar has many old buildings, forts, and palaces that tell stories of its past rulers and their times. These historical sites are like open-air museums, showing different styles of architecture and art from various periods.

People and Culture

The people of Dhar district are mainly farmers, and they live in both towns and villages. The main languages spoken here are Hindi and Malvi, which is a local dialect. The culture is rich and vibrant, with many traditional festivals celebrated throughout the year. Festivals like Diwali, Holi, and Navratri are celebrated with great enthusiasm, bringing communities together.

The district is also home to several tribal communities, especially in the hilly and forested areas. These communities have their own unique traditions, folk dances, music, and crafts, which add to the cultural diversity of the region. Their art often includes beautiful paintings, pottery, and weaving.

What People Do There

Agriculture is the backbone of Dhar district's economy. Farmers grow crops like wheat, soybean, cotton, and maize. The fertile land and river systems support this farming activity. Besides farming, some people work in small industries, especially those related to agriculture, like cotton ginning and oil mills.

The district is also known for its traditional crafts. Artisans create beautiful items, including textiles and pottery. These crafts are not just a source of income but also a way to preserve the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Places to Visit

Dhar district has several interesting places that reflect its history and natural beauty:

• Dhar Fort: This ancient fort stands on a hill and offers great views of the town. It has seen many battles and changes in power over centuries.
• Bhojshala: This is a historic building that was once a Sanskrit college and a temple dedicated to the goddess Saraswati, built by King Bhoja. It is an important archaeological site.
• Lat Masjid: Built in the 15th century, this mosque is known for its unique architecture and a tall iron pillar, which is called 'Lat'.
• Bagh Caves: These are a group of nine rock-cut caves located near the town of Bagh. They are famous for their ancient Buddhist murals and paintings, which are similar to those found in the Ajanta Caves. These caves show the artistic skills of people from long ago.