Smallest District in Uttar Pradesh, Know the District Name

Bhadohi district, situated in the heart of Uttar Pradesh, holds a unique blend of historical richness and contemporary economic importance. Established on 30 June 1994, Bhadohi has emerged as a crucial hub for the carpet industry, earning global recognition as the ‘Carpet City of India.’ This article delves into the district’s history, its evolution into an economic powerhouse, and its geographical significance.

Smallest District in Uttar Pradesh – Name

Despite its modest geographical expanse, Bhadohi stands as the smallest district in Uttar Pradesh, covering an area of 1,015 km2 (392 sq mi). Nestled in the plains of the Ganges River, the district’s significance surpasses its size. Bordered by Jaunpur to the north, Varanasi to the east, Mirzapur to the south, and Prayagraj to the west, Bhadohi’s strategic location positions it between the culturally significant cities of Prayagraj and Varanasi.

Smallest District of Uttar Pradesh – History

The historical tapestry of Bhadohi is woven with threads of ancient and medieval significance. According to the Mahābhārata, the Pandavas sought refuge in Bhadohi’s Semradhnath after escaping Lakshagrah through a tunnel. Legends also suggest that Mata Sita found solace in the ashram of Maharshi Valmiki in Bhadohi. In medieval times, the region was under the rule of Bhar Raj, whose capital was Bhadohi. Mughal Emperor Akbar incorporated Bhadohi into the sarkar of Allahabad.

The fifteenth century witnessed the Monas Rajputs overpowering the Bhar rulers. Raja Pratap Singh of Pratapgarh later ceded the pargana to Balwant Singh of Benaras in 1750 AD. Bhadohi’s trajectory continued under British influence, ultimately becoming part of the princely state of Benares in 1911.

The district attained its current form on 30 June 1994, separating from Varanasi district.

Uttar Pradesh’s Smallest District – Geographical Significance

Situated on the banks of the Ganges River, Bhadohi’s geographical location contributes to its cultural and economic importance. Its proximity to Prayagraj and Varanasi enhances its historical relevance, serving as a bridge between two culturally rich cities. The Ganges, Varuna, and Morva rivers further enrich the region’s geographical tapestry.

Smallest District in Uttar Pradesh – Economy

The economic dynamism of Bhadohi revolves around its thriving carpet industry. Dating back to the 16th century during the Mughal reign, the carpet weaving tradition has flourished, making Bhadohi-Mirzapur the largest handmade carpet weaving cluster globally. With approximately 2.2 million rural artisans, Bhadohi alone contributes significantly to India’s carpet exports, accounting for about 75% of the total.

In 2010, Bhadohi’s carpets received the Geographical Indication (GI) tag, solidifying its global identity. Known for producing a variety of carpets, including cotton Dhurries, Chhapra Mir carpets, and Persian designs, Bhadohi continues to be a major player in the international carpet market.

Demographics and Language of Smallest District in Uttar Pradesh

As per the 2011 census, Bhadohi district is home to 1,578,213 people. The linguistic landscape is diverse, with Hindi being the predominant language (66.38%), followed by Bhojpuri (18.34%), Awadhi (13.01%), and Urdu (2.17%).

Uttar Pradesh State at a Glance

• Country: India
• Region: North India
• Formation: 24 January 1950
• Capital and largest city: Lucknow
• Largest metro: Lucknow
• Districts: 75 (18 divisions)
• Government Body: Government of Uttar Pradesh
• Governor: Anandiben Patel
• Chief minister: Yogi Adityanath (BJP)
• Deputy chief ministers: Keshav Prasad Maurya (BJP), Brajesh Pathak (BJP)
• State Legislature: Bicameral
• Council: Uttar Pradesh Legislative Council (100 seats)
• Assembly: Uttar Pradesh Legislative Assembly (403 seats)
• National Parliament: Parliament of India
• Rajya Sabha: 31 seats
• Lok Sabha: 80 seats
• High Court: Allahabad High Court
• Area: 243,286 km2 (93,933 sq mi) (Rank: 4th)
• Population (2021): Total: 241,066,874 (Rank: 1st), Density: 1,001/km2 (2,590/sq mi), Urban: 22.27%, Rural: 77.73%
• Demonym(s): Uttar Pradeshi, UPite
• Language: Official: Hindi, Additional official: Urdu, Official script: Devanagari script
• Literacy (2011): 67.68% (Rank: 29th)
• Sex ratio (2021): 1015 ♀/1000 ♂ (Rank: 19th)