Bihar
Bihar is a state in the eastern part of India. It is famous for its historical legacy, cultural heritage, and contribution to ancient Indian civilization. It is the second most populous state in India. Bihar shares its boundaries with Uttar Pradesh in the west, Nepal in the north, West Bengal in the east, and Jharkhand in the south. The capital and largest city of the state of Bihar is Patna.
Etymology
The term “Bihar" was derived from the word “Vihara,” which means a monastery in Sanskrit. The area was famous for Buddhist monasteries, and this gave rise to the term “Bihar.”
History
Bihar has a long and glorious history. In ancient times, this region was a part of a powerful empire known as the kingdom of Magadha, which later became the heart of the Mauryan and Gupta empires.
This region was a significant factor in the emergence of religions such as Buddhism and Jainism. The founders of both these religions, Mahavira and Gautam Buddha, are associated with this region.
This region was also a seat of learning, and ancient learning centers such as Nalanda University flourished here. In medieval times, this region was a part of the Delhi and Mughal empires. After the Battle of Buxar in 1764, this region came under the rule of the British. After independence in 1947, this region became a part of India, and in the year 2000, a new state, Jharkhand, was created from the southern part of this region.
Geography
The geographical area of Bihar is approximately 94,163 square kilometers. The state consists of fertile plains, primarily created by the Ganges River and its tributaries, such as the Kosi, Gandak, and Son Rivers.
The state's climate is humid subtropical, characterized by hot summers, a rainy season, and cold winters. The state also experiences floods, especially in the northern part of Bihar, as a result of the Himalayan Rivers.
Demographics
According to the Census of India, conducted in 2011, the state of Bihar has a population of more than 104 million people. The official language of the state is Hindi, and Urdu is also considered an official language.
Maithili, Bhojpuri, and Magahi are regional languages spoken by the people of Bihar. The state's population is primarily rural, and the state's density of population is high.
Religion
The majority of the inhabitants in Bihar follow Hinduism. Islam is the second religion that is practiced in Bihar.
Bodh Gaya is an important pilgrimage center in Bihar. It is said that Gautam Buddha attained enlightenment at this place. Mahabodhi Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Culture
The culture of Bihar is depicted in terms of its festivals, traditions, music, and art. Chhath Puja is said to be the main festival of Bihar. Other festivals are also celebrated in Bihar.
Madhubani paintings and folk music are famous in Bihar. Bihar is also famous for its literary works in Hindi and other languages.
Government and Administration
The parliamentary system of government is prevalent in Bihar. The Governor is the head of the state, and the Chief Minister is the head of the executive. The legislative body of the state is bicameral in structure and comprises the Legislative Assembly and the Legislative Council.
The state is divided into several districts for administrative purposes.
Economy
The economy of Bihar is mainly agricultural in nature. The principal crops grown in the state are rice, wheat, maize, and pulses.
Efforts have been made in recent years to develop the infrastructure and industrial sector. The food processing industry, handloom industry, and small-scale industry are the sectors that contribute to the economy.
Infrastructure
Bihar has developed infrastructure in road, rail, and air transport facilities. Patna is the main transport hub of the state.
Bridges over the Ganges River have improved connectivity between various regions of the state. Rural development and electrification schemes have also expanded in the recent past.
Education
The state is home to several prominent educational centers, such as Patna University and Nalanda University.
The literacy rate is on an upward trend due to efforts by both the government and private sectors to expand education facilities.
Media
The media in Bihar include various newspapers, television, and online media in Hindi, Urdu, and English. The regional media are essential for communication in the region.
Sports
The most popular sports in Bihar include cricket, football, kabaddi, and athletics. The state takes part in various sporting events in the country, with improvements in sports infrastructure.