Bhagalpur (The Silk City)

Overview

Bhagalpur, historically known as Champa Nagri, is a prominent city in the Indian state of Bihar, located on the southern bank of the Ganges River. It is the third-largest city in Bihar by population and serves as the administrative headquarters of Bhagalpur district, Bhagalpur division, and the Eastern Range. Bhagalpur is renowned for its silk production, earning it the nickname "The Silk City." It has also been selected for development under the Smart Cities Mission by the Government of India. Bhagalpur is home to several major educational institutions, including IIIT Bhagalpur, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Tilka Manjhi Bhagalpur University (TMBU), and Bihar Agricultural University (BAU).

The city is also noted for the ruins of the ancient Vikramshila Mahavihara, which is near the construction site of the upcoming Vikramshila Central University. Bhagalpur Railway Station serves as a major transportation hub in the region. The Ganges River near the city is home to the Gangetic dolphin, the National Aquatic Animal of India, and the Vikramshila Gangetic Dolphin Sanctuary is located nearby. Bhagalpur also hosts the largest Manasa Puja and one of the most significant processions during Kali Puja, which are integral to the cultural heritage of the region.

Geography and Climate

Bhagalpur is situated on the southern bank of the Ganges River at an elevation of 52 meters above sea level. The city experiences a tropical climate, with hot summers, a monsoon season, and mild winters. The region receives an average annual rainfall of approximately 1,206.3 mm. The highest recorded temperature is 46.4°C, while the lowest is 3.9°C. The city is also home to the Greater Adjutant stork, an endangered species associated with the mythical bird Garuda. Bhagalpur hosts one of the largest rescue and rehabilitation areas for this species in India.

Demographics

As per the 2011 Census of India, Bhagalpur had a population of 410,210, making it the third-largest city in Bihar by population. The city has a literacy rate of 80.76%, with male literacy at 84.95% and female literacy at 75.95%. The population density is 1,900 inhabitants per square kilometer.

Local Attractions

Bhagalpur is rich in historical and cultural landmarks, including:

• Vikramshila Setu: A major bridge over the Ganges River connecting Bhagalpur to the northern parts of Bihar.
• Maharishi Mehi Ashram: A spiritual center dedicated to the teachings of Maharishi Mehi.
• Ghantaghar: A historic clock tower in the heart of Bhagalpur.
• Budhanath Temple: A significant Shiva temple on the banks of the Ganges, mentioned in the Shiva Purana.
• Shri Champapur Digambar Jain Temple: A historic Jain pilgrimage site associated with Lord Vasupujya, the 12th Jain Tirthankara.
• Ruins of Vikramshila Mahavihara: An ancient Buddhist university established during the Pala dynasty, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Education

Bhagalpur is home to several educational institutions, including:

• Indian Institute of Information Technology (IIIT), Bhagalpur
• Bihar Agricultural University (BAU), Sabour
• Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College & Hospital (JLNMCH)
• Tilka Manjhi Bhagalpur University (TMBU)
• Bhagalpur College of Engineering (BCE)

Media and Communication

Bhagalpur is served by several print and broadcast media outlets, including Hindi newspapers like Dainik Jagran and Hindustan, Urdu newspapers like The Inquilab, and English newspapers like The Times of India and The Telegraph. The city also has All India Radio stations and FM radio channels, along with broadband services provided by Airtel, Jio, and BSNL.