Nanded

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Nanded Railway Platform

Nanded is a city in the Maharashtra state of India. It is the eighth largest urban agglomeration in the state and the seventy-ninth most populous city in India. Nanded is the district headquarters of the Nanded district. As a historic place, it is predominantly known for its association with the Sikh guru, Guru Gobind Singh, and as the site where the Guru Granth Sahib was completed. Nanded is a city of great religious significance for Sikhs, and the Hazur Sahib Gurudwara in Nanded is one of the five Takhts (temporal seats) in Sikhism.

History

Nanded's history dates back to the Yadava dynasty period, with its mention in various historical records. It was later part of the Delhi Sultanate, the Bahmani Sultanate, and subsequently fell under the rule of the Mughal Empire. The city gained prominence in Sikh history during the late 17th century when Guru Gobind Singh arrived in Nanded as part of his journey. He spent his final days in Nanded, and it was here that he declared the Guru Granth Sahib as his eternal successor, marking the end of the line of human Gurus and the beginning of the scripture as the eternal Guru in Sikhism.

Geography

Nanded is located on the banks of the Godavari River, which is one of the major rivers in India. The city's geography is characterized by flat terrain and fertile soil, making it conducive to agriculture. The climate of Nanded is typical of the Deccan Plateau, with hot summers, moderate winters, and a monsoon season.

Economy

The economy of Nanded is primarily based on agriculture, with crops such as cotton, soybean, and sugarcane being the major agricultural products. The city also has a growing industrial sector, with industries such as manufacturing, textiles, and food processing. In recent years, the government has been promoting Nanded as a site for religious tourism, which has contributed to the local economy.

Culture

Nanded is a melting pot of cultures, with a significant influence of Sikh culture due to the historical presence of Guru Gobind Singh. The city celebrates various Sikh festivals, with the Gurta Gaddi festival being the most prominent, attracting thousands of pilgrims from around the world. The city also has a rich tradition of Marathi culture, with festivals such as Diwali, Ganesh Chaturthi, and Makar Sankranti being widely celebrated.

Education

Nanded is home to several educational institutions, including the Swami Ramanand Teerth Marathwada University, which offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses. The city also has a number of colleges and schools providing education in various fields.

Transport

Nanded is well-connected by road, rail, and air. The Nanded Airport provides connectivity to major cities in India. The city is also served by the Nanded Railway Station, which is an important junction in the region. Road connectivity is facilitated by national and state highways, making it accessible from major cities in Maharashtra and neighboring states.

Tourism

Nanded attracts tourists and pilgrims due to its rich historical and religious significance. The Hazur Sahib Gurudwara is the main attraction, drawing Sikh pilgrims from all over the world. Other notable places include the Kandhar Fort, Mahur, and the Godavari River. The city's blend of cultural heritage and religious importance makes it a unique destination in India.