Bānkura, India

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Bānkura, India

Region: West Bengal

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Geographic Coordinates: 23.250000, 87.066700

Climate: Seasonal.

Population: 137386

Language: Bengali

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Bankura is a district located in the state of West Bengal, India. It is known for its rich cultural heritage, Historical significance, And natural beauty. The district covers an area of 6, 882 square kilometers and has a population of approximately 3.7 million people. Bankura is home to a number of ancient temples and historic monuments that date back to the pre-colonial era. One such temple is the Bishnupur Temple Complex which was built by the Malla dynasty in the 17th century.

The complex comprises several terracotta temples that are dedicated to various Hindu deities like Radha-Krishna, Shyam-Rai, Jor-Bangla among others. The district also boasts several other important landmarks such as Susunia Hill which is popular for rock climbing enthusiasts and Mukutmanipur Dam which offers breathtaking views of nature’s splendor. The dam spans over 11 kilometers across Kangsabati River making it one of the largest dams in India. Bankura’s rich cultural heritage can be seen through its vibrant folk art forms like Chau dance, Baul music, Jhumur dance among others.

These art forms have been passed down from generation to generation and are an integral part of Bankura’s identity. The district also has a thriving handloom industry where skilled artisans weave intricate designs using traditional techniques that have been practiced for centuries. Bankura’s famous Baluchari sarees are highly sought after by fashion enthusiasts all over India. In terms of cuisine, Bankura offers a unique culinary experience with dishes like Pitha (rice cakes), Aloo Posto (potato cooked with poppy seeds), Shukto (vegetable stew) among others being some local favorites.

Overall Bankura offers visitors an opportunity to experience India’s rich cultural heritage while also enjoying its natural beauty at its finest. With so much to see and do here, It’s no wonder that Bankura is quickly becoming a popular destination for tourists from all over the world.

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1. Bishnupur Temples: These are a group of terracotta temples built during the 17th and 18th centuries, showcasing the unique architecture of the region.
2. Susunia Hill: This is a popular trekking destination with scenic views and ancient rock carvings.
3. Mukutmanipur Dam: A beautiful dam located on the Kangsabati River, offering boating facilities and breathtaking views.
4. Jhilimili Forest Reserve: An ideal place for nature lovers, this forest reserve is home to various species of flora and fauna.
5. Koro Hill: Another popular trekking destination with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
6. Garh Darwaja: A historical landmark in Bānkura, this fort was built during the Mughal era and served as a strategic military outpost.
7. Rasmancha Temple: This is another terracotta temple located in Bānkura that dates back to the 16th century.
8. Biharinath Hill: A scenic hill station with lush green forests and stunning views of sunrise and sunset.
9. Shyamrai Temple: One of the oldest terracotta temples in Bānkura, constructed during the reign of King Raghunath Singha II in 1643 AD.
10. Joyrambati Village: The birthplace of Sri Sarada Devi (wife of Swami Vivekananda), this village attracts pilgrims from all over India who come to pay their respects at her shrine.

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1. Agriculture
2. Handloom weaving
3. Terracotta handicrafts
4. Small-scale industries such as rice mills and oil mills
5. Coal mines
6. Tourism

The district is also known for its:

• Historical temples
• Natural beauty

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Noteable History

1. The Battle of Buxar: In 1764, the Battle of Buxar was fought near Bankura between the British East India Company and combined forces of Mir Qasim, Shuja-ud-Daula, and Shah Alam II. This battle marked a significant turning point in Indian history as it led to the establishment of British rule over Bengal.
2. Chhatra Brata: Chhatra Brata is a popular festival celebrated in Bankura district that dates back to ancient times. It is believed that Lord Rama performed this ritual during his exile period.
3. Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar: Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar was a renowned social reformer and educationist who was born in Bankura district in 1820. He played an instrumental role in advocating for women’s education and widow remarriage.
4. Kazi Nazrul Islam: Kazi Nazrul Islam was a famous Bengali poet, writer, musician, and revolutionary who hailed from Bankura district. He is considered one of the greatest poets in Bengali literature.
5. Mukutmanipur Dam: Mukutmanipur Dam is one of the largest earth dams in India located near Bankura district on the Kangsabati River.
6. Susunia Hills: Susunia Hills are ancient hills located near Bankura which have archaeological significance due to their association with prehistoric settlements dating back to 4000 BCE.
7. Bishnupur Terracotta Temples: Bishnupur is a town located within Bankura district known for its terracotta temples built during the Malla dynasty (16th-18th century).
8. Jhilimili Forest Reserve: Jhilimili Forest Reserve is a popular tourist destination situated within Bankura district known for its scenic beauty and wildlife.
9. Bankura Horse: The Bankura Horse is a traditional terracotta horse figurine made in Bankura district which is considered a symbol of Bengali culture.
10. Raghunathpur Raj Estate: Raghunathpur Raj Estate is a historical estate located in Bankura district which was once ruled by the Maharaja of Burdwan. It has several palaces, temples, and gardens that attract tourists.

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Museums and Things To See

1. The Bishnupur Terracotta Temples are renowned for their intricate terracotta work and are a must-visit destination for art lovers.
2. Located on the Kangsabati River, the Mukutmanipur Dam provides breathtaking views of the surrounding hills.
3. Koro Hill is a popular spot for picnics and offers panoramic views of Bankura town.
4. The Susunia Hills are known for their natural beauty and archaeological significance, with ancient rock carvings dating back to 4000 BCE.
5. The Bankura Horse is a traditional folk art form that originated in this region, depicting horses made of clay or wood with intricate designs.
6. The Jhilimili Forest Reserve is home to various wildlife species, including elephants, leopards, and deer.
7. Biharinath Hill offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and is popular among trekkers and nature enthusiasts.
8. Dedicated to Sarada Devi – wife of Ramakrishna Paramhansa – the Joyrambati Temple Complex attracts pilgrims from all over India.
9. With rare species like Indian Gaur (Bison), Sambar Deer etc., Mukutmonipur Wildlife Sanctuary is an ideal destination for wildlife enthusiasts.
10. The Bankura Art College Museum showcases artworks by students as well as renowned artists from the region’s rich cultural heritage.

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Sports Teams

1. Bankura is a district in India that has a rich history of sports.
2. Football is one of the most popular sports played in Bankura, with several local clubs like Bankura Town Club and Mohun Bagan AC playing for decades.
3. Cricket is also very popular, and the district has produced some talented cricketers who have played at the state level.
4. Kabaddi is another sport that is widely played in Bankura, with several local clubs and tournaments organized throughout the year.
5. Athletics are also gaining popularity among the youth of Bankura, with several athletes representing West Bengal at national events.
6. Overall, sports play an important role in the culture of Bankura and continue to be a source of pride for its residents.

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Cultural Events

1. Bishnupur Mela is a well-known fair that takes place in Bishnupur town, Bankura district during the last week of December. It is famous for its handicrafts, terracotta items, and traditional Bengali sweets.
2. Jhilimili Mela is an important fair in Bankura district that occurs during January or February. It offers cultural programs, tribal dances, and local cuisine to visitors.
3. Charak Puja is a notable festival celebrated in Bankura district every April. Men participate in a unique ritual where they pierce their bodies with sharp objects to honor Lord Shiva.
4. Gajan Festival occurs during April or May and involves religious rituals and processions accompanied by music and dance performances in various parts of West Bengal including Bankura district.
5. Tusu Parab is a harvest festival celebrated annually by tribal communities in Bankura district between January or February each year.
6. Kumbhira Mela happens every year at Mukutmanipur Lake in Bankura district during January or February to celebrate Lord Shiva’s marriage anniversary.
7. Rash Purnima Fair takes place on Kartik Purnima day at Amarkanan village near Bishnupur town every year to celebrate Lord Krishna’s love for Radha through cultural programs and processions.
8. The Bankura Horse Show showcases various horse breeds from across India along with traditional sports like horse racing, tent pegging etc., held annually as an event.

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Cuisine

• Bhaja Hater Hotel – This restaurant is famous for its authentic Bengali cuisine and is a must-visit for foodies.
• Chhuti Restaurant – It serves delicious Indian and Chinese dishes at affordable prices.
• Hotel Annapurna – This restaurant is well-known for its vegetarian thalis, as well as a variety of North Indian and South Indian dishes.
• Rangamati Restaurant – It specializes in Bengali seafood dishes, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
• Shyamal Restaurant – The menu features traditional Bengali snacks such as samosas, kachoris, jalebis along with other North Indian delicacies.
• Rajbari Bawarchi Khana – Located inside the Rajbari Palace Hotel, this fine-dining restaurant serves royal Mughlai cuisine in an elegant setting.
• Aaranyak Restaurant & Bar – With both indoor and outdoor seating options available, this multi-cuisine restaurant is perfect for family outings or romantic dinners.
• Saptapadi Restaurant & Bar – An upscale eatery that offers exotic cocktails along with delicious Chinese and Continental dishes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds!

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Leave Footprints In The Sand.

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