Patna

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Patna is the capital and largest city of the state of Bihar in India. It is one of the oldest continuously inhabited places in the world. The city is situated on the southern bank of the Ganges River and is known for its rich history and cultural heritage.

History

Patna, historically known as Pataliputra, was founded in the 5th century BCE by the Magadha ruler Ajatashatru. It served as the capital of the Maurya Empire under Chandragupta Maurya and his grandson Ashoka the Great. The city was a major center of learning and culture during the Gupta Empire and later under the Pala Empire.

Geography

Patna is located at an elevation of 53 meters (174 feet) above sea level. The city is spread over an area of 250 square kilometers. It is bounded by the Ganges River to the north, the Son River to the west, and the Punpun River to the south.

Economy

Patna is a major agricultural hub and a center for trade and commerce. The city's economy is primarily based on agriculture, with rice, sugarcane, and sesame being the main crops. Patna also has a growing service sector, with significant contributions from the banking, insurance, and real estate industries.

Education

Patna is home to several prestigious educational institutions, including Patna University, which was established in 1917. Other notable institutions include the National Institute of Technology, Patna, Patna Medical College and Hospital, and the Indian Institute of Technology, Patna.

Culture

Patna has a rich cultural heritage, with numerous festivals and events celebrated throughout the year. The city is known for its traditional Bihari cuisine, which includes dishes like Litti Chokha, Sattu, and Chana Ghugni. Patna also has a vibrant arts scene, with several theaters, museums, and galleries.

Transportation

Patna is well-connected by road, rail, and air. The city has a major railway station, Patna Junction, which is one of the busiest in India. The Jay Prakash Narayan International Airport serves both domestic and international flights. Patna is also connected by several national highways, making it accessible from various parts of the country.

Tourist Attractions

Some of the notable tourist attractions in Patna include:

• Golghar
• Patna Museum
• Takht Sri Patna Sahib
• Bihar Museum
• Sanjay Gandhi Jaivik Udyan

Notable Personalities

Patna has been the birthplace and home to several notable personalities, including:

• Chanakya, ancient Indian teacher, philosopher, and royal advisor
• Aryabhata, ancient Indian mathematician and astronomer
• Rajendra Prasad, the first President of India
• Jayaprakash Narayan, Indian independence activist and political leader

See Also

• Bihar
• Ganges River
• Maurya Empire
• Gupta Empire