Overview
Bundi district is an administrative district in the Hadoti region of southeastern Rajasthan, India. The district takes its name from its headquarters town, Bundi, historically the seat of the princely state of Bundi ruled by the Hada Chauhans. The district is known for its medieval forts, stepwells (baoris), and a distinct school of Rajput miniature painting.
Key facts
| Country | India |
|---|---|
| State | Rajasthan |
| Region | Hadoti |
| Headquarters | Bundi |
| Division | Kota division |
| Type | District |
Geography
Bundi district lies in the southeastern part of Rajasthan and forms part of the Kota administrative division. It is bordered by Tonk district to the north, Kota district to the east and southeast, Chittorgarh district to the southwest, and Bhilwara district to the west. The Vindhyan scarps and the Mukundara hill ranges traverse parts of the district, and the Chambal river system, along with its tributaries such as the Mej, drains the area.
History
The region was historically governed as the princely state of Bundi, founded in the 14th century by Rao Deva Hada of the Chauhan clan. Bundi state retained its identity through Mughal and Maratha periods and entered into a subsidiary alliance with the British East India Company in the early 19th century. After India's independence in 1947, the state was integrated into the United State of Rajasthan, and Bundi became a district of the present-day state of Rajasthan.
Administration
The district is administered by a District Collector and forms part of the Kota division. It is subdivided into tehsils and community development blocks, with Bundi town serving as the administrative headquarters. The district sends representatives to the Rajasthan Legislative Assembly and is part of a Lok Sabha constituency in the region.
Economy
The economy of Bundi district is predominantly agrarian. Major crops include wheat, soyabean, mustard, paddy, and gram, supported in parts by canal irrigation from the Chambal system. Sandstone quarrying and stone-based industries are also significant, with the district being a part of Rajasthan's broader sandstone belt.
Culture and heritage
Bundi is renowned for its architectural and artistic heritage. Notable monuments include the Taragarh Fort, the Garh Palace, and the Chitrashala, which preserves examples of the Bundi school of miniature painting. The district contains numerous stepwells, the most famous being Raniji ki Baori. Bundi is also associated with the English author Rudyard Kipling, who is believed to have drawn inspiration for parts of his writing during a visit to the town.
Tourism
Tourism in the district centres on Bundi town's forts, palaces, and baoris, as well as the surrounding rural landscape. Other attractions include the Sukh Mahal beside Jait Sagar lake and prehistoric rock paintings reported from sites in the district's hilly tracts.
Related topics
References
- Wikidata: Q670405