Bhavnagar
Bhavnagar is a city situated on the eastern coast of the Kathiawar peninsula, in the state of Gujarat, India. It serves as the administrative headquarters of the Bhavnagar district. Historically, Bhavnagar was the capital of the Bhavnagar State, one of the major princely states of British India.
The city is a significant center for trade and commerce, particularly in cotton products, diamonds, and ship breaking. Its port, one of the oldest in Gujarat, facilitates import and export activities. The region surrounding Bhavnagar is primarily agricultural, with cotton, groundnuts, and salt being the main products.
Bhavnagar's history dates back to the early 18th century when it was founded by Bhavsinhji Gohil in 1723. The Gohil dynasty ruled the state until its accession to the Indian Union in 1948. Bhavnagar played a key role in the Indian independence movement, with its rulers often supporting nationalist causes.
The city is home to several educational institutions, including universities and colleges, contributing to the region's intellectual and cultural landscape. Notable landmarks include the Takhteshwar Temple, Gandhi Smriti, and the Nilambag Palace.