The capital of Bihar is Patna, situated on the southern bank of the Ganges River. Patna also known as Pataliputra. Patna is famous for its historical significance as the ancient capital of the Indian empire and its diverse cultural heritage.
In this article, we have covered the New and old Capital of Bihar, Tourism in Patna (Bihar), Overview of the current Bihar Historical Facts, and many more.
Let’s dive right in.
Capital of Bihar – Patna
Patna, the capital city of Bihar, holds historical significance as one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited places, dating back over 2,500 years.
Formerly known as Pataliputra, it served as the capital for several ancient Indian empires, including the Maurya and Gupta dynasties.
Today, Patna stands as a dynamic urban center, contributing to India’s political, educational, and cultural landscape.
With historical landmarks, educational institutions like Patna University, and ongoing economic development, the city remains a key entity in the country’s historical and contemporary narratives.
Old Capital of Bihar
The old capital of Bihar was Pataliputra, also known as Patalipattan. It was a significant political and cultural center during ancient times and served as the capital for several major Indian empires, including the Maurya and Gupta dynasties.
Pataliputra reached its zenith during the Maurya Empire, under the rule of Emperor Ashoka, who made it a grand political and cultural center. The city continued to flourish during the Gupta period.
Pataliputra is now known as Patna, which remains the present-day capital of Bihar.
New Capital of Bihar
The New capital of Bihar is Patna. The following points describe the New Capital of Bihar in Detail.
- Geography and History:
- Situated on the southern bank of the Ganges River, Patna is the capital and largest city of Bihar.
- The city’s history dates back more than 2,500 years, making it one of the oldest continuously inhabited places globally.
- Patna has been a witness to the rule of various empires, including the Maurya and Gupta empires.
- Cultural and Historical Significance:
- The Golghar, an iconic granary, was built in the 18th century by Captain John Garstin and offers panoramic views of the city.
- The Patna Museum, established in 1917, houses a rich collection of artifacts, including items from the ancient and medieval periods.
- Mahatma Gandhi Setu, one of the longest river bridges in the world, connects Patna to Hajipur across the Ganges.
- Patna Sahib Gurudwara is a sacred Sikh pilgrimage site, marking the birthplace of Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Guru of Sikhism.
- Economic Hub:
- Patna is a significant economic center, contributing to trade, education, and administration in the region.
- The city has seen considerable urban development, including the establishment of shopping malls, multiplexes, and modern residential complexes.
- Political Importance:
- Houses the government offices, legislative assembly, and the official residence of the Chief Minister, making it the political heart of Bihar.
- Bihar’s political landscape, marked by its dynamic elections and governance, is centered in Patna.
- Challenges and Opportunities:
- Faces challenges related to rapid urbanization, including traffic congestion, inadequate infrastructure, and environmental concerns.
- Various initiatives are underway to address these challenges and promote sustainable development in the city.
Capital City Patna
Here is the more description about the Capital city of pihar – Patna:
| Location |
Located on the southern bank of the river Ganges. |
| Historical Significance |
One of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. |
| Nickname |
Pataliputra (historical name), Kusumapura (ancient name) |
| Founder |
Believed to have been founded by King Ajatashatru in the 5th century BCE. |
| Architectural Heritage |
Contains several historical buildings, including the Golghar and Patna Museum. |
| Economy |
Commercial and trading hub; financial and industrial activities. |
| Culture |
Blend of traditional and modern; vibrant festivals and cultural events. |
| Educational Institutions |
Home to reputed educational institutions, including Patna University. |
| Transportation |
Well-connected by road, rail, and air; hosts Jay Prakash Narayan International Airport. |
| Tourist Attractions |
Mahavir Mandir, Patna Sahib Gurudwara, Buddha Smriti Park, Patna Museum, Gandhi Maidan. |
Bihar An Overview
Hee is the brief overview about Bihar:
| Capital |
Patna |
| Chief Minister |
Nitish Kumar (as of my last knowledge update in January 2022; please verify for the latest information) |
| Governor |
Phagu Chauhan (as of my last knowledge update in January 2022; please verify for the latest information) |
| Formation |
Bihar was formed on March 22, 1912. |
| Area |
Approximately 94,163 square kilometers. |
| Population |
Over 125 million (as of my last knowledge update in January 2022; please verify for the latest information) |
| Official Language |
Hindi |
| Major Rivers |
Ganga, Sone, Gandak, Kosi |
| Major Festivals |
Chhath Puja, Diwali, Holi, Eid-ul-Fitr, Eid-ul-Adha, Durga Puja |
| Literacy Rate |
According to the 2011 census, Bihar’s literacy rate was around 61.8%. |
| Economy |
Primarily agrarian; emerging sectors include IT, education, and healthcare. |
| Industries |
Agriculture, manufacturing, IT, textiles, and handicrafts. |
| Tourist Attractions |
Bodh Gaya, Nalanda, Rajgir, Patna Sahib, Vaishali, Mahabodhi Temple, Vikramshila University Ruins |
| Education |
Home to institutions like Nalanda University and IIT Patna. |
| Transportation |
Well-connected by road, rail, and air. |
Nalanda University, often recognized as one of the earliest residential learning centers in recorded history, not only excelled academically but also offered a distinctive model of education based on communal living. The campus accommodated thousands of students and teachers, creating an environment where intellectual pursuits and debates were intricately woven into daily life. The university’s renowned library, named Dharma Gunj (Mountain of Truth), was an enormous nine-story structure said to house an extensive collection of manuscripts and texts across various fields of knowledge. This emphasis on communal learning and the grand scale of its library contribute to the unparalleled legacy of Nalanda University in the realms of education and scholarship.
Historical Importance: Nalanda University, located in Bihar, holds profound historical value as one of the world’s oldest centers of education. Thriving between the 5th and 12th centuries, Nalanda University served as a dynamic center for Buddhist education and philosophy, drawing scholars from diverse regions across Asia.
Architectural Wonder: The remnants of Nalanda University unveil remarkable architectural brilliance, featuring intricately designed classrooms, temples, and residential areas. The layout of the university mirrors advanced planning and architectural mastery characteristic of that era. The ruins not only signify an ancient seat of knowledge but also showcase the sophisticated infrastructure that supported intellectual pursuits during its heyday.
Tourism in Bihar
Bihar is famous for Tourist all around the world. There are so many places you can visit in Bihar like Bodhgaya, Rajgir, Vaishali, Patna, Pawapuri, Nalanda, Madhubani, Valmiki Nagra, Vikramshila, Jamui, Rohtas, Sasaram. Here are some famous tourist palace and their specifications.
- Bodh Gaya:
- Bodh Gaya is one of the most important pilgrimage sites for Buddhists. It is the place where Siddhartha Gautama attained enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree. The Mahabodhi Temple Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a major attraction.
- Nalanda:
- Nalanda is renowned for the ancient Nalanda University, a center of learning in the 5th-12th centuries. The archaeological ruins of the university attract history enthusiasts and scholars.
- Rajgir:
- Rajgir is an ancient city with historical significance. It was the capital of Magadh Mahajanpad and a prominent place associated with Buddhism. The Vishwa Shanti Stupa and Griddhakuta (Vulture’s Peak) are key attractions.
- Patna:
- The capital city, Patna, has a mix of historical and modern attractions. The Patna Museum, Golghar, Gandhi Maidan, and Patna Sahib Gurudwara are popular spots. The city is also known for its vibrant markets and cultural events.
- Vaishali:
- Vaishali is an ancient city with connections to Lord Buddha. It is believed to be the birthplace of Lord Mahavira, the founder of Jainism. The Ashoka Pillar and Ananda Stupa are significant historical sites.
- Kesariya Stupa:
- Kesariya Stupa is believed to be the largest Buddhist stupa in the world. It dates back to the 3rd century BCE and is an important archaeological site.
- Sasaram:
- Sasaram is known for the tomb of Sher Shah Suri, a medieval ruler. The architecture of the tomb is a blend of Afghan and Indian styles.
- Bhagalpur:
- Bhagalpur is famous for its silk industry. The Vikramshila Gangetic Dolphin Sanctuary, located near Bhagalpur, is home to the endangered Gangetic dolphins.
- Champaran:
- Champaran is historically significant for being the site where Mahatma Gandhi launched the Champaran Satyagraha in 1917. The Gandhi Sangrahalaya in Motihari commemorates this event.
- Pawapuri:
- Pawapuri is a sacred place for Jains and is believed to be the place where Lord Mahavira attained nirvana. The Jal Mandir is a major pilgrimage site in Pawapuri.
Economy of Bihar
The economy of Bihar is highly depend on the following factor:
Diverse Industries: Bihar’s economy is multifaceted, with contributions from various sectors. Sectors like agriculture, information technology, healthcare, and trade hold crucial positions in shaping the economic scenario of the state.
Educational Institutions: The presence of esteemed educational institutions fosters human capital development, contributing to overall economic growth. Institutions like Patna University and Nalanda University show the importance of education in creating the state’s economy.
Government Initiatives: Government initiatives aimed at infrastructure development, skill enhancement, and economic reforms contribute to Bihar’s economic progress. The Smart Cities Mission is an example of a strategic initiative to improve urban infrastructure.
Patna – Interesting Facts
Here are some Interesting facts about patna
1. Tracing the Footprints of History
The Mauryan Marvel: Explore how Patna served as the capital of the mighty Mauryan Empire, delving into the architectural remnants that still stand as silent witnesses to this golden era.
Gupta Grandeur: Uncover the cultural confluence during the Gupta period, where art and intellect flourished, leaving an indelible mark on Patna’s landscape.
2. A Riverside Sojourn: Life on the Banks of the Ganges
Glimpses of the Ganges: Immerse yourself in the cultural significance of the Ganges, discovering how the river has been both a witness and participant in Patna’s journey through time.
Pataliputra Resurrected: Reflect on the ancient city of Pataliputra, now Patna, and its transformation from a political center to a vibrant, thriving urban space.
3. Architectural Echoes: Landmarks of Patna
Golghar’s Whispering Granary: Unravel the mysteries of Golghar, a historical granary with panoramic views standing as a testament to Patna’s architectural marvels.
Sacred Spaces: Patna Sahib Gurudwara: Feel the spiritual pulse of Patna through the lens of Patna Sahib Gurudwara, a sacred Sikh pilgrimage site resonating with history and devotion.
4. Cultural Mosaic: Festivals and Traditions
Tradition Meets Modernity: Witness the cultural mosaic through the lens of Patna’s festivals, where ancient traditions seamlessly blend with contemporary celebrations.
5. Economic Prowess: The Beating Heart of Bihar
Hub of Administration: Discover how Patna serves as the nerve center for Bihar’s administration, playing a pivotal role in governance and policy.
6. Bridging Past and Present: Infrastructure and Development
Patna’s Progress: Witness the city’s journey of development, from the introduction of modern amenities to ongoing projects like the Patna Metro, symbolizing a commitment to progress and growth.
Urban Tapestry: Explore the evolving urban landscape, where the old and the new seamlessly coexist, creating a unique tapestry that encapsulates Patna’s spirit of resilience and adaptability.
Best Places in Patna to Visit
Here are some famous tourist palace in Patna to visit:
|
Historical granary with panoramic views of the city.
Built in 1786, it’s an architectural marvel.
|
|
Houses a rich collection of artifacts and art.
Exhibits from the Mauryan and Gupta periods.
|
|
Sacred Sikh pilgrimage site
Associated with Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Sikh Guru
|
|
Commemorates the life of Lord Buddha.
Features the World Peace Pagoda and meditation area.
|
|
Popular zoo with diverse flora and fauna.
Ideal for families and nature enthusiasts.
|
|
Excavated site of Pataliputra, showcasing ancient history.
Ruins and artifacts from the Mauryan period
|
|
One of the holiest Hanuman temples in India.
Draws devotees from across the country.
|
|
Historic well with mysterious and ancient origins.
Believed to date back to the Mauryan period.
|
FAQs on Capital of Bihar
1. Why is Patna the capital of Bihar?
Patna assumed the role of Bihar’s capital owing to its historical importance and strategic positioning along the Ganges River. Across centuries, it has been pivotal in numerous empires, transforming into a central hub for administration, culture, and economic pursuits.
2. What are some historical landmarks in Patna?
Patna is adorned with a plethora of historical attractions, such as the 18th-century granary, Golghar, and the Patna Museum, a repository of artifacts dating back to ancient eras. These landmarks reflect the city’s rich cultural heritage.
3. How has Patna contributed to Bihar’s cultural identity?
Patna has been a cultural melting pot, hosting festivals like Chhath Puja with great enthusiasm. The city’s cultural identity is also enriched by religious sites such as the Patna Sahib Gurudwara, a significant Sikh pilgrimage destination.
4. What is the economic significance of Patna?
As the capital, Patna serves as the economic nucleus of Bihar. It hosts a variety of industries, educational institutions, and government offices, making a substantial contribution to the economic progress of the state.
5. Why is Patna So Famous ?
Patna is famous for its historical significance as it is the ancient capital during the time of Magadha Kingdom. It is a gateway to Nalanda University’s ruins and Bodh Gaya, a prominent Buddhist pilgrimage site. The city is also known for its cultural vibrancy, administrative importance, and educational institutions.
6. List some of big cities in Bihar ?
The following is the list of some big cities of Bihar: Gandhi Maida, Boring Road, Kankarbagh, Rajendra Nagar, Danapur
7. What is the population of Bihar in 2024
The estimated population of Bihar was over 125 million. It actually changes so I recommend checking the latest census figures or official government sources.
8. What is the language of Bhiar?
The primary language spoken in Bihar is Hindi. Hindi, written in the Devanagari script, is the official language of the state. Additionally, Bhojpuri, Magahi, and Maithili are also spoken in different regions of Bihar.
Share your thoughts in the comments
Please Login to comment...