MADHYA PRADESH

-The Heart of india

Name: Krutika Vernekar Class : SYBMM Roll No. : 55 Subject : Cultural Studies

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Madhya Pradesh, often called the Heart of India, is a state in central India. Its capital is Bhopal. Madhya Pradesh was the largest state in India until 1 November 2000, when the state of Chattisgarh was carved out. It borders the states Uttar Pradesh, Chattisgarh, Maharashtra, Gujarat and Rajasthan. The state has an area of 308,252 km2 (119,017 sq mi).

CLIMATE: Madhya Pradesh has a subtropical climate. Like most of North India it has a hot dry summer(April-June) followed by monsoon rains (July-September) and a cool and relatively dry winter. The average rainfall is about 1,370 mm (53.9 in). It decreases from east to west. The south-eastern districts have the heaviest rainfall, some places receiving as much as 2,150 mm (84.6 in), while the western and north-western districts receive 1,000 mm (39.4 in) or less.

HISTORY: Madhya Pradesh occupies perhaps the oldest part of the subcontinent. Close to Bhopal at Bhimbetka are the pre-historic caves that preserve some fascinating paintings dating back to Palaeolithic times. Experts have concluded that these are at least as old as the specimen at Pyrnees. This was perhaps one of the earliest dwellings of human beings. In fact, the excavations here have revealed a cultural sequence right from the late Stone Age to the early historical period. Madhya Pradesh is the richest state in the country in respect of painted rockshelters, the majority of which have been found in the districts of Sehore, Bhopal, Raisen, Hoshangabad and Sagar. During the ascendancy of the Guptas the whole region came under the domain of the imperial Guptas and subsequently formed part of Harshvardhan's empire. With the decline in imperial power the province was broken up into small principalities contending forever to establish their supremacy over one another. Chandels were one such dynasty claiming descent from the moon, who carved out a strong prosperous kingdom for themselves after the decline of the great empire. There was a short spell of inspired construction activity under the Chandels in the 10th to 11th centuries. They are the ones who have left behind the cluster of matchless temples at Khajuraho. Chandels were followed by Pratihara and Gaharwar Rajput dynasties claiming mythical origins relating their scions to the gods or heroes in the epics. They lived and died by a difficult code of chivalry, wasted away scarce resources in an expensive feudal life style and could not ultimately keep at bay the expanding Muslim power. Rulers of Malwa fought a running battle with the subedars of Gujarat or the commanders of the Sultan of Delhi throughout the sultanate period. The grand Moghul Akbar succeeded in subduing most of them and his sterner grandson Aurangzeb broke through the last pockets of resistance in this region. Many of the smaller kingdoms trace their origins to the lands granted by the emperor at Delhi to those who had served him well. Bir Singh Deo of Orchcha was for instance installed on his throne by Jehangir who felt obliged to the Bundela chieftain for having removed a painful thorn - Abul Fazal, from his

side. Abul Fazal one of the nine jewels of Akbar's court, was murdered at his behest near Gwalior. Some other principalities came into being with branching of families, internecine quarrels and the munificence of the Marathas who were indomitable with - the decline of the Moghuls. Rulers of Ratlam and Sitamau claim close relationship with the ruling house of Jodhpur in Rajasthan. In course of time the Marathas were replaced by the British who entered into treaty relationships with these princely states and established paramountcy over them. This was the Raj period when the Central Provinces were left for the large part outside developments in British India. The Maharajas were free to indulge in their expensive whims much to the chagrin of their poor populace. This is the world evoked by Kipling in his jungle Book and chronicled by E M Forster in The Hill of Devi. Jhabua, Nagod, Alirajpur, Sarguja, Dewas Senior and junior were quaint names of exotic places where eccentric Englishmen could strive to carve out a career or amass a fortune or simply drop out to. These were destinations where the Prince of Wales or the Viceroy could be taken out for the treat of his life - a tiger shoot, or to savour the extravagant life style of the Maharajas. Most of these blue blooded gentry were content to be renowned for their prowess with a heavy gun or patronage of arts and crafts. The stirrings of the national movement were slow in this region as most of the area was not directly ruled by the British. Undaunted freedom fighters carried Mahatma Gandhi's message to the masses and exhorted them to take up the battle against colonialism. Some like Subhadra Kumari Chauhan nostalgically evoked the regional tradition of valour to inspire her compatriots.

LANGUAGES: The predominant language of the region is Hindi. In addition to standard Hindi, several regional variants are spoken, which are considered by some to be dialects of Hindi. Among these languages are Malvi in Malwa, Nimadi in Nimar, Bundeli in Bundelkhand, and Bagheli and Avadhi in Bagelkhand and the southeast. Each of these languages or dialects has dialects of its own. Other languages include Bhilodi (Bhili), Gondi, Korku, Kalto (Nahali), and Nihali (Nahali), all spoken by tribal groups. Due to rule of Marathas, Marathi is spoken by a substantial number of people. In addition, Saraiki and Pashto are spoken by the large number of immigrants from Afghanistan and North-West Frontier Province, Pakistan. In an attempt to "reduce Western influence" on children, Madhya Pradesh government has forbidden the teaching of English nursery rhymes in primary schools. Urdu, Marathi, Gujarati & Sindhi languages are also spoken here thanks to the mix of people. CULTURE: Culture of Madhya Pradesh is vibrant and colourful. It has been carved out by the ample contributions of tribal communities. The state has the privilege of having the highest rank in tribal population and people of the tribal community occupy around one-third part of the region. All the tribal and non-tribal communities have their own socio-cultural space. Madhya Pradesh is the home of numerous tribes, which also has resulted in amalgamating their own tradition. Three distinct tribes namely Gond tribe, Bhil tribe and Oraon tribe influence the culture of Madhya Pradesh. These tribal groups have their distinctive languages, art forms and festivities. Festivals like Bhagoriya, Madai, etc. are celebrated by the tribal groups. Dances like Sela, Kaksar, Gaur and Karma, etc are some of the dance forms enjoyed by the tribes. Art and Crafts Arts and crafts of Madhya Pradesh illustrate the tribal art form merged impeccably into the tradition of the people residing in Madhya Pradesh. People can find a vast diversity of arts and crafts in Madhya Pradesh. The arts and crafts give an idea; divulge hereditary skills and replicates

craftsmanship of the local people. Arts and crafts incorporates bamboo work, dolls and toys, metalwork, carpet weaving, ornaments and jewellery, pottery, stone-carving, paintings, printing and woodcarving. The region of Madhya Pradesh looms large in lush textiles and rural handiworks. The people treasure handloom Chanderi sarees and Maheshwari silks. Madhya Pradesh is a hub of `erotic` artistries and beautiful architectural works. Tribal craftsmen are skilled in metal wares and aesthetic objects. Tourists from worldwide step into the region and explore its artistic treasures. Nature lovers too throng the dense forests and wild life sanctuaries that have proliferated in Madhyanchal. As a consequence, in different cities of Madhya Pradesh, hotels, pubs, restaurants, thus, are constructed to meet these demands of infiltration of tourists in great numbers throughout the year. Religion Culture of Madhya Pradesh is a pleasant amalgamation of Hindus, Jains, Christians, Muslims, Buddhists, and Sikhs. Moreover, the tribal communities of the state comprise diverse tribes like Oraon, Kol tribe, Bhil, Gonds, Bhilalas, Murias and Korkens, to name a few. These people belonging to several religions and ethnic backgrounds reflect the concept of Indian secularism and add to the animated cultural froth of the state. The eastern side of the state is dominated by the Oraons; most of them have now converted to Christianity. Most of the people in Madhya Pradesh are Hindus. There are, however, sizeable minorities of Muslims, Jains, Christians and Buddhists. There is also a small Sikh population. Music and Dance Music of Madhya Pradesh is rich and vibrant encompassing the rich heritage of musicians. The culture of Madhya Pradesh, in true sense, is extensively recognised for its musical extravaganza and dancing rhythms. Folk songs, songs of Indian classical music genre are equally popular among music lovers. In Bastar, the Muria and Sing Maria tribes are wellknown for the songs namely relo. The region is also fructified by dhankul songs colligated with evoking Danteshwari, a goddess, and the `chait parah`. In Jagdalpur, leha songs are famous. These are ritual song sung during the departure from near and dear ones. During festivals, the swaying tunes of songs in accompaniment with basuri, harmonium, chastise hearts both young and old.

The ambience of frenzy is even more heightened by the sophisticated steps of the dancing troupes. The colourful Maria Gonds of Bastar fete their important events by dancing. The most popular dance form is the outstanding wedding dancing, called the Gaur is worth a watch. Tribal dances like Phag, Lota and various stilt dance styles are also prevalent. Dressed up in coloured clothes, the tribal population dance and hum melodious numbers thus depicting various aspects of socio-political and cultural scenarios. In nutshell, these bonanzas create a magnificent aura to its audiences both at home and abroad. Cuisine The people of Madhya Pradesh are enticed by sumptuous dishes, making the cuisine an integral element of the culture of Madhya Pradesh. The foods are mainly hot and spicy. It is interesting to note that within the same region people prefer variations in food meals. Cuisine in Madhya Pradesh has a small touch of Rajasthani and Gujrati cuisines. Previously, Jowar was the principal cereal here. But now, Wheat is the staple food of Madhya Pradesh. Wheat and mutton are favourites for north and west and people of south and eastern provinces enjoy fish and rice. A special type of wheat cakes, namely, Bafla is soused in rich ghee and then it is consumed with daal. Some people especially those residing in Gwalior and Indore has developed the taste for milk and milk-based cookeries. Bhopalites make dainty mutton and fish dishes. Rogan josh, korma, keema, biryani pilaf and kababs such as shami and seekh are delicacies and have become the trademarks of Madhya Pradesh cuisine. To beat the heat of sultry summers, the people of Madhya Pradesh savour voluptuously juicy fruits like melons, custard apples, papayas, guavas and bananas. Lassi is the favourite drink for the Madhya Pradesh natives. Madhya Pradesh is also well-known for many sweet dishes like `mawabati`, `shreekhand`, `khoprapak`, and `malpua`. The cuisine of Madhya Pradesh is supposed to be the hottest and diverse of all in the Indian sub continent. The area of expertise of their cuisine here is the use of wheat and milk with assorted items. Here one will find dishes that are hard to find outside the state of Madhya Pradesh. Fairs and Festivals Festivals, too, enrich the culture of Madhya Pradesh. No one can claim to have known the region fully without identifying its festival jamboree. The region of Madhya Pradesh is the locale of fairs and festivals, which

also becomes its style mantra. In other words, culture of Madhya Pradesh is incubated due to exquisite festival celebrations. Apart from celebrating all other Indian festivals like Holi, Dussehra, the tribal festivals and fairs are also observed in full vigour and merrymaking. Revelry, drinks and alien amusement like cock fighting, dancing label these tribal festivals in Madhya Pradesh. `Kalidas Samaroh`, `Tansen Samaroh` and a dance fete in Khajuraho are celebrated, in great fiesta, with vast number of avid participants. Religious festivals too are observed with veneration. In West Nimar and Jabua regions of Mandhyanchal, a colourful festival called Bhagoria Haat is feted by the Bhils and Bhilalas tribes. Kumbha Mela is the biggest religious congregational fair of the Hindus and has known celebration from many centuries. The celebration of Kumbha Mela sees the union of millions of devotees, monks and religious saints from all corner of India, making the festival the largest of all Hindu fairs. Besides Chaitra fair, the Dhup Dehi ka Mela of Hirapur, the Ramnavami fair and the Gal Yatras are feted at various places in Madhya Pradesh region. Madhya Pradesh is filled with lush forests, magnificent monuments, exuberant festivity and blissful solitude. In this land of wonderful and contrasting variety, handicrafts lend a touch of mystique. A deftly woven silk or a cotton blended saree, block printed fabrics, stuffed leather toys or floor coverings, folk paintings, bamboo, cane or jute woodcraft, stone craft, iron craft, Metal craft, terra cotta, Zari work (gold thread embroidery), ornaments and other hand-crafted products of Madhya Pradesh add to its charming culture attracting the attention of the people from far and wide. The pilgrimages such as Ujjain, Amarkantak, Maheshwar, Madleshwar, Onkareshwar, and other places located in the bank of Narmada River are some of the most popular religious centres of the state. In a nutshell, Madhya Pradesh is a historically significant and a culturally rich state. Madhya Pradesh is a place highly acclaimed for its treasure of historical edifices and relics. Along with this, meandering rivers with its booties, rich flora and fauna have made the life in Madhya Pradesh easy and comfortable. This has thus initiated its people to devote ample time to undertake the task of preserving and also enriching their musical heritage, dance styles, festivals, arts and crafts-all the embodiments of culture of

Madhya Pradesh attributed to Royal sagas and tribal tradition TRANSPORT: Madhya Pradesh, being surrounded by land, has both Land and Air transport facilities. Extensive rail network crisis cross the state, with Jabalpur serving as headquarter for West Central Railway Zone of Indian Railways. The state has a total of 20 major railway junctions. Buses and trains cover most of Madhya Pradesh. Extensive road network is also being developed. Madhya Pradesh leads in nation in implementing Gramin Sadak Nirman Pariyojna, a central government aided programme to provide road networks to villages. The state has five domestic airports located at Indore, Bhopal, Jabalpur, Gwalior and Khajuraho. Air strips are located at Ujjain, Khandwa and Satna. Flights are operated by Indian Airlines and Air Deccan among others. Indore is proposed to become an International Airport by 2010. Flights for Haj have already started on a yearly basis from Indore.

EDUCATION: As per the 2001 census, Madhya Pradesh had a literacy rate of 70.53%. The state is home to some of the premier educational and research institutions of India such as the Indian Institute of Technology Indore, National Law Institute University (NLIU) Bhopal, Indian Institute of Forest Management, Maulana Azad National Institute of Technology Bhopal , Indian Institute of Soil Science, and Indian Institute of Hotel Management Bhopal . The primary languages of instruction in most schools are Hindi and English. The syllabus taught in the schools is either of the CBSE, or the ICSE or the state syllabus (M.P.BOARD) defined by the Department of Public Instruction of the Government of Madhya Pradesh. There are 500 degree colleges affiliated with one of the universities in the state, viz. Rajiv Gandhi Technical University, Barkatullah University, Devi Ahilya University, Rani Durgavati University ,Vikram University etc.

Indian Institute of Management Indore is a state funded management institute in Indore. The Indian Institute of Forest Management (IIFM) (founded 1982) is an autonomous institution located at Bhopal in Madhya Pradesh, established by the Ministry of Environment and Forests, Government of India with financial assistance from the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA) and course assistance from the Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad. It is the only Forest Management Institute in India. Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Bhopal (IISERB) is an autonomous institute of higher education for research and education in science established by the Ministry of Human Resource Development, Government of India in 2008.

MEDIA: Nava Bharat, Raj Express, Nai Duniya, Patrika (Rajsthan Patrika), Dainik Bhaskar, Dainik Jagran and the Hindi weekly Akbar Times are prominent Hindi newspapers. Various other local newspapers are also published in various cities. In English, Times of India, Hindustan Times, Central Chronicle, Pioneer and Free Press have editions from Bhopal. Urdu journals are common in Bhopal. Nadeem, the oldest Urdu newspaper of the state, is published from Bhopal. Urdu Action and Haq-o-Insaf are also published. Farz, a Sindhi daily is published from Bhopal is the only Sindhi newspaper in State. SPORTS: Cricket is commonly played game. Football (Soccer), Basket-Ball, Volley-Ball, Cycling, Swimming, Tracking, Badminton, Table-Tennis, and Lawn Tennis are common games. Also some traditional games are played in rural areas: 1. Kho kho 2. Gulli Danda 3. Pittu

INFRASTRUCTURE: The Madhya Pradesh Infrastructure Investment Fund Board (MPIIFB) is constituted to mobilize resources for infrastructure projects in the State of MP, including roads, irrigation, water supply, solid waste management and drainage or a multipurpose project comprising two or more such areas. The Fund established under the scheme will consist of an amount not exceeding Rs.1000 Crores. The Board, may out of its funds, grant loans and advances for infrastructure projects to any public sector undertakings or other undertakings for the time being in existence in the State. The Secretary, Institutional Finance, Govt. of Madhya Pradesh is Fund Manager, for the MPIIFB.

Annual state report analysis

GDP: Madhya Pradesh's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) remained nearly half of the national average of 8.49% in the last five years, making it one of the states to perform poorly in the country. Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-ruled Madhya Pradesh also fared badly among the so-called four 'BIMARU' states with an average 4.89% GDP growth between 2004-'05 and 2008-'09, according to the latest Central Statistical Organisation (CSO) report. Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh form the BIMARU states due to their poor growth rate. Chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan's claim to rid Madhya Pradesh of the BIMARU tag falls flat in the face of a dismal performance on the GDP front, although the state's plan size has more than doubled, from Rs6,710 crore in 2004-'05 to Rs14,182 crore in 2008-'09, the report's figures show.

Gujarat stood first with an average of 11.05% growth, while Bihar occupied the second slot with average 11.03% growth annually for five years to emerge as the fastest-growing state, the report said. The average GDP growth of Rajasthan was 6.25%, while that of Uttar Pradesh remained at 6.29% during the period, it said.

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