Gajapati is a district located in the southeastern part of Odisha. It is bordered by the Rayagada district to the south, the Ganjam district to the east, and the Kandhamal and Nayagarh districts to the north. The district is primarily hilly and forested, with a few plain areas in the north. The major rivers flowing through the district are the Mahendratanaya and the Vamsadhara.The district has a rich cultural heritage, with a mix of tribal and non-tribal communities. The major tribes living in the district are the Kondh, Soura, and Bonda. The district is also known for its music, dance, and handicrafts, such as the Dokra metal crafts and the terracotta pottery.The economy of Gajapati is primarily based on agriculture, with rice being the major crop. Other crops grown in the district include pulses, oilseeds, and cotton. The district also has a few small-scale industries, such as rice mills and handloom weaving units.
Gajapati is a district located in the southern part of Odisha, India. It was created in 1992 by the division of the former district of Ganjam. The district has an area of 4327 square kilometers and a population of around 5,00,000 as per the 2011 census. It is bounded by the districts of Ganjam to the north, Rayagada to the south, Kandhamal to the west, and the Bay of Bengal to the east.
Gajapati is known for its scenic beauty and rich cultural heritage. The district is named after Maharaja Sri Krushna Chandra Gajapati Narayan Dev, the last king of the princely state of Paralakhemundi. The district headquarters is located in the town of Paralakhemundi, which is situated at an altitude of 1155 feet above sea level.
History
Gajapati has a rich and diverse history. It was ruled by several dynasties, including the Kalinga, Maurya, and Gupta empires. The region was also a part of the Ganga dynasty and the Eastern Ganga dynasty. During the medieval period, the district was ruled by the Gajapati dynasty, which was one of the most powerful dynasties in the region.
In the 16th century, the district came under the control of the Mughals. Later, it was ruled by the British East India Company. After India's independence, Gajapati became a part of the state of Odisha.
Geography
Gajapati district is situated in the Eastern Ghats and is known for its beautiful landscape. The district is divided into two distinct regions, the hilly region and the coastal region. The hilly region is situated in the western part of the district and is known for its dense forests, hills, and waterfalls. The coastal region, on the other hand, is located in the eastern part of the district and is known for its beautiful beaches and estuaries.
The Mahendragiri range, which is a part of the Eastern Ghats, runs through the district. The highest peak in the district is Deomali, which is situated at an altitude of 1672 meters above sea level. The major rivers that flow through the district are the Bahuda, the Mahendratanaya, and the Vamsadhara.
Climate
Gajapati district has a tropical climate with high humidity throughout the year. The district experiences heavy rainfall during the monsoon season, which lasts from June to September. The winter season, which lasts from November to February, is relatively dry and pleasant.
Culture
Gajapati is known for its rich cultural heritage. The district has a diverse population consisting of several tribal communities. The major tribes that inhabit the district are the Kondh, the Soura, and the Desia Kondh. The district is also home to several religious communities, including Hindus, Christians, and Muslims.
The people of Gajapati are known for their unique customs and traditions. The district is famous for its festivals, which are celebrated with great enthusiasm and fervor. Some of the major festivals celebrated in the district are Dussehra, Diwali, and Makar Sankranti. The district is also known for its folk dances, including the Dalkhai dance and the Ghumura dance.
State :
Odisha
How to Reach Gajapati
Complete List of Tehsils in Gajapati District, Odisha