Aligarh

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Aligarh is a city in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. It is the administrative headquarters of the Aligarh district and is notable for its Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), one of the most prestigious universities in India. The city is also known for its lock industry and is often referred to as the "City of Locks."

History

Aligarh has a rich history that dates back to ancient times. The city was originally known as Kol or Koil. It was an important center during the Mughal Empire and later became a significant site during the Indian Rebellion of 1857. The city was renamed Aligarh in the 18th century by Nawab Najaf Ali Khan.

Geography

Aligarh is located at a latitude of 27.88°N and a longitude of 78.08°E. The city is situated at an elevation of approximately 178 meters above sea level. It is well-connected by road and rail to major cities like Delhi, Agra, and Kanpur.

Economy

The economy of Aligarh is primarily based on its lock industry, which has been a significant contributor to the city's economy for decades. The city is also known for its brass hardware and sculpture industry. Additionally, Aligarh has a growing educational sector, largely due to the presence of Aligarh Muslim University.

Education

Aligarh is home to several educational institutions, the most prominent being Aligarh Muslim University (AMU). Founded in 1875 by Sir Syed Ahmed Khan, AMU is a major center for higher education in India. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs.

Culture

The culture of Aligarh is a blend of traditional and modern influences. The city celebrates various festivals such as Diwali, Eid, and Holi with great enthusiasm. The Aligarh Muslim University also hosts several cultural and academic events throughout the year.

Transportation

Aligarh is well-connected by various modes of transportation. The Aligarh Junction railway station is a major railhead on the Delhi-Kolkata route. The city is also served by a network of state and national highways, making it accessible by road. The nearest airport is the Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi.

Notable People

Several notable personalities hail from Aligarh, including:

• Sir Syed Ahmed Khan - Founder of Aligarh Muslim University
• Ismat Chughtai - Renowned Urdu writer
• Javed Akhtar - Famous poet and lyricist

Related Pages

• Aligarh district
• Aligarh Muslim University
• Sir Syed Ahmed Khan
• Indian Rebellion of 1857
• Mughal Empire

External Links

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