Madhya Pradesh

State in central India

Shri Mahakaleshwar Temple, Ujjain

Madhya Pradesh (

मध्य प्रदेश

This Hindi language related article is a stub.

) is a state located in central India. It is the second-largest state in the country by area and the fifth-largest by population. The state is bordered by Uttar Pradesh to the northeast, Chhattisgarh to the southeast, Maharashtra to the south, Gujarat to the west, and Rajasthan to the northwest.

History

Madhya Pradesh has a rich historical heritage, with evidence of human settlement dating back to the Paleolithic era. The Bhimbetka rock shelters, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, contain some of the oldest known rock art in the world.

Bhimbetka Caves, Madhya Pradesh

The region was ruled by various dynasties, including the Maurya Empire, the Gupta Empire, and the Mughal Empire. The Maratha Empire also had a significant influence in the region. In the 18th century, the area was divided into several princely states under British rule.

Geography

Madhya Pradesh is characterized by a diverse landscape that includes plateaus, river valleys, and forests. The Vindhya Range and the Satpura Range are prominent mountain ranges in the state. The Narmada River and the Tapti River are two major rivers that flow through the state.

Marble Rocks, Jabalpur

Economy

The economy of Madhya Pradesh is primarily based on agriculture, with wheat, rice, and soybeans being the main crops. The state is also rich in mineral resources, including coal, manganese, and limestone. Industrial development is concentrated in cities like Indore, Bhopal, and Gwalior.

Culture

Madhya Pradesh is known for its cultural diversity and is home to several indigenous tribes. The state celebrates various festivals, including Diwali, Holi, and Navratri. The Khajuraho temples, famous for their erotic sculptures, are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a major tourist attraction.

Kandariya Mahadeo Temple, Khajuraho

Tourism

Madhya Pradesh is a popular tourist destination, offering a variety of attractions ranging from historical monuments to natural beauty. The Gwalior Fort, the Sanchi Stupa, and the Kanha National Park are among the notable sites.

Gwalior Fort

Sanchi Stupa

Related pages

• List of districts of Madhya Pradesh
• Economy of Madhya Pradesh
• Culture of Madhya Pradesh