Ahmedabad

Ahmedabad, also known as Amdavad, is the largest city and former capital of the Indian state of Gujarat. It is located on the banks of the Sabarmati River, 30 km from the state capital Gandhinagar, which is its twin city. Ahmedabad has emerged as an important economic and industrial hub in India. It is the second-largest producer of cotton in India, and its stock exchange is the country's second oldest. The city is divided by the Sabarmati into two physically distinct eastern and western regions. Ahmedabad is known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and significant architectural marvels.

History

Ahmedabad was founded by Sultan Ahmad Shah in 1411 AD, who named it after himself. It prospered as the capital of the Gujarat Sultanate, and later, under the Mughal Empire, it became a significant center of trade and commerce. The city's textile industry earned it the nickname "Manchester of the East" during the British colonial period. Post-independence, Ahmedabad played a crucial role in the Indian independence movement, particularly during the Salt Satyagraha led by Mahatma Gandhi, who established the Sabarmati Ashram as the movement's headquarters.

Geography

Ahmedabad is situated in the western part of India. The city experiences a hot, semi-arid climate, with marginally less rain than required for a tropical savanna climate. Summers are extremely hot, winters are cool, and the monsoon season spans from June to September.

Economy

The economy of Ahmedabad is diverse, with industries ranging from chemicals and pharmaceuticals to the thriving garment sector. The city is also known for its IT and scientific industries, and it hosts several major Indian corporations. The Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT City), one of India's first operational smart cities and financial hubs, is located in the Ahmedabad metropolitan area.

Culture

Ahmedabad is celebrated for its culture and traditions. The city is famous for its festivals, especially Navratri and Uttarayan (kite flying festival). It is also known for its cuisine, which includes both traditional Gujarati dishes and international foods. The historic city of Ahmedabad was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2017, recognizing its remarkable heritage of ancient mosques, temples, and other architectural feats.

Education

The city is a prominent educational hub, hosting several prestigious institutions like the Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad (IIMA), Gujarat University, and the National Institute of Design (NID). These institutions attract students from all over the country and the world.

Transport

Ahmedabad is well-connected by road, rail, and air. The Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport serves both domestic and international flights. The city's public transportation includes buses operated by the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) and the recently developed Ahmedabad Metro.

Sports

Cricket is a popular sport in Ahmedabad, with the Sardar Patel Stadium (Motera Stadium) being one of the premier cricket stadiums in India. The city also has a vibrant football scene and hosts various other sports.

See Also

• Gandhinagar
• Gujarat
• Sabarmati River
• Indian independence movement