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{{Short description|Geographical and cultural region in central India}}
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{{More citations needed|date=April 2015}}
{{More citations needed|date=April 2015}}
{{Use Indian English|date=February 2017}}
{{Use Indian English|date=February 2017}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=July 2020}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=July 2020}}
{{Infobox settlement
{{Infobox settlement
| name             = Bundelkhand
| name               = Bundelkhand
| native_name            = [[Chandelas of Jejakabhukti|Jejakabhukti]]
| official_name      = [[Chandelas of Jejakabhukti|Jejakabhukti]]
| native_name_lang       =  
| native_name        = Chedi
| settlement_type         = [[Historical region]] <br /> [[Proposed states and territories of India|Proposed state]]
| native_name_lang   =  
| image_skyline           = OrchhaPalace.jpg
| settlement_type   = [[Historical region]] <br /> [[Proposed states and territories of India|Proposed state]]
| image_alt              =
| image_skyline     = {{multiple image
| image_caption          = [[Jahangir Mahal]], [[Orchha]]
| perrow = 1/2/2/1
| image_map              =
| align = right
| map_alt                =
| total_width = 320
| map_caption            = Location of Bundelkhand in India
| image1 = Kandariya Mahadev temple and Devi Jagadambi temple, Khajuraho Temple complex, UNESCO WHS, Madya Pradesh.jpg
| pushpin_map            =
  | image2 = Chaturbhuj Temple and Raja Mahal, Orchha.jpg
| pushpin_label_position  =
| image3 = Ramparts of Jhansi Fort.jpg
| pushpin_map_alt        =
| image4 = 0121921 Neelkanth temple, Kalinjar Fort, Uttar Pradesh 050.jpg
| pushpin_map_caption    =
| image5 = Eran - Monolithic Varaha and ruined Vishnu Temple in background.jpg
| coordinates            = {{coord|25.44|78.57|display=inline,title}}
| image6 = Raneh Falls.jpg
| coor_pinpoint          =
| coordinates_footnotes  =
| subdivision_type        = Country
| subdivision_name        = {{Flag|India}}
| area_footnotes          =
| area_total_km2          = 70,747
| area_land_km2          =
| area_water_km2          =
| area_water_percent      =
| area_note              =
| elevation_footnotes    =
| elevation_m            = 250-300
| population_footnotes    =
| population_total        = 18,335,044
| population_as_of        = 2011
| population_density_km2 = auto
| population_demonym      = Bundelkhandi/Bundeli
| population_note        =
| timezone1              = [[Indian Standard Time|IST]]
| utc_offset1            = +05:30
| timezone1_DST          = +05:30
| utc_offset1_DST        =
| demographics_type1      = Languages
| demographics1_title1    = Major languages
| demographics1_info1    = [[Bundeli language|Bundeli]],<br>[[Hindi]]
| blank1_name_sec1        = Historical [[Capital (political)|capitals]]
| blank1_info_sec1        = [[Khajuraho]],<br>[[Mahoba]],<br>[[Kalinjar]],<br>[[Orchha]]
| blank2_name_sec1        = Separated states
| blank2_info_sec1        = [[Orchha]] (1501),<br>[[Datia]],<br>[[Panna, India|Panna]] (1732),<br>[[Ajaigarh]] (1765),<br>[[Bijawar]] (1765),<br>[[Charkhari]],<br>[[Samthar]],<br>[[Sarila]],<br>[[Gursarai]],<br>[[Barua sagar]],<br>[[Moth]],<br>[[Chirgaon]]
| footnotes              =
}}
}}
'''Bundelkhand''' is a geographical and cultural [[List of regions in India|region]] and also a mountain range in central & North India. The hilly region is now divided between the states of [[Uttar Pradesh]] and [[Madhya Pradesh]], with the larger portion lying in the latter state.
| image_alt          =
 
| image_caption      = Top to Bottom; Left to Right: [[Khajuraho Group of Monuments]], [[Orchha Fort complex]], [[Jhansi Fort]], Neelkanth Temple at [[Kalinjar Fort|Kalinjar]], Varaha statue at [[Eran]] and [[Raneh Falls]]
[[Jhansi]] is the largest city in Bundelkhand and is a major cultural, educational, transport and economic hub.
| image_map          = Bundelkhand.svg
 
| map_alt            =
Another major city of Bundelkhand is [[Sagar, Madhya Pradesh|Sagar]] being second largest city of Bundelkhand and headquarter of [[Sagar Division]].
| map_caption        = Location of Bundelkhand in India
 
| pushpin_map        =
Other towns are [[Konch]], [[Kalpi]], [[Chirgaon]], [[Datia]], [[Dabra]], [[Mauranipur]], [[Panna, India|Panna]], [[Banda, Uttar Pradesh|Banda]], [[Chitrakoot district|Chitrakoot]], [[Tikamgarh]], [[Rath, India|Rath]], [[Lalitpur, India|Lalitpur]], [[Damoh]], [[Jalaun]], [[Orai]], [[Hamirpur, Uttar Pradesh|Hamirpur]], [[Mahoba]], [[Banda district (India)|Banda]], [[Maudaha]], [[Ashoknagar (Madhya Pradesh)|Ashoknagar]], [[kalinjar]], [[Chhatarpur]] and [[Gwalior]]
| pushpin_label_position =
 
| pushpin_map_alt    =
Among the well-known places of Bundelkhand is [[Khajuraho Group of Monuments|Khajuraho]], which has numerous 10th-century sculptures devoted to fine living and eroticism. The mines of Panna have been the source of magnificent diamonds; a very large one dug from the last active mine was kept for a time in the fort of [[Kalinjar]].
| pushpin_map_caption =
| coordinates        = {{coord|25.44|78.57|display=inline,title}}
| coor_pinpoint      =
| coordinates_footnotes =
| subdivision_type  = Country
| subdivision_name  = {{Flag|India}}
| subdivision_type1  = State
| subdivision_name1  = [[Madhya Pradesh]] and [[Uttar Pradesh]]
|subdivision_type2  = [[Districts of India|District(s)]]
|subdivision_name2  = #[[Sagar District]]
# [[Damoh District]]
# [[Panna District]]  
# [[Chhatarpur District]]  
# [[Tikamgarh District]]  
# [[Datia District]]
# [[Niwari District]]
# [[Jhansi District]]
# [[Jalaun District]]
# [[Mahoba District]]
# [[Lalitpur District, India|Lalitpur District]]
# [[Chitrakoot District]]
# [[Banda District, India|Banda District]]
# [[Hamirpur District, Uttar Pradesh|Hamirpur District]]  
| area_footnotes    =
| area_total_km2    = 70,747
| area_land_km2      =
| area_water_km2    =
| area_water_percent =
| area_note          =
| elevation_footnotes =
| elevation_m        = 250-300
| population_footnotes =
| population_total  = 18,335,044
| population_as_of  = 2011
| population_density_km2 = auto
| population_demonym = Bundelkhandi/Bundeli
| population_note    =
| timezone1          = [[Indian Standard Time|IST]]
| utc_offset1        = +05:30
| timezone1_DST      = +05:30
| utc_offset1_DST    =
| demographics_type1 = Languages
| demographics1_title1 = Major languages
| demographics1_info1 = [[Bundeli language|Bundeli]],<br>[[Hindi]]
| blank1_name_sec1  = Historical [[Capital (political)|capitals]]
| blank1_info_sec1  = [[Banda, Uttar Pradesh|Banda]],<br> [[Ajaigarh]],<br> [[Panna, India|Panna]],<br>[[Orchha]] ,
| blank2_name_sec1  = Separated states
| blank2_info_sec1  = [[Banda, Uttar Pradesh|Banda]],<br>[[Orchha]],<br>[[Jhansi]],<br>[[Panna, India|Panna]],<br>[[Bijawar]],<br>[[Ajaigarh]],<br>[[Datia]],<br>[[Hamirpur, Uttar Pradesh|Hamirpur]],<br>[[Charkhari]],<br>[[Jaitpur, Kulpahar|Jaitpur]], <br>[[Kulpahar]],<br>[[Samthar]],<br>[[Sarila]],<br>[[Gursarai]],<br>[[Barua sagar]],<br>[[Moth, Uttar Pradesh|Moth]],<br>[[Chirgaon]]
| footnotes          =
}}
'''Bundelkhand''' ({{IPAc-en|'|b|ʊ|n|d|eɪ|l|ˌ|k|h|ʌ|n|d|}}, {{IPA|hi|bʊn.d̪eːl.kʰəɳɖ|lang}}) is a geographical and cultural [[List of regions in India|region]] and a [[Proposed states and union territories of India#Madhya Pradesh|proposed state]] and also a mountain range in central and North India. It corresponds to the [[Vedic period|Post-Vedic]] '''Chedi''' kingdom. The hilly region is now divided between the states of [[Uttar Pradesh]] and [[Madhya Pradesh]], with the larger portion lying in the latter state.


== Etymology ==
== Etymology ==
 
Bundelkhand means "[[Bundela]] domain".<ref>{{cite book |first=Ravindra K. |last=Jain |title=Between History and Legend: Status and Power in Bundelkhand |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=fghQhiowlycC&pg=PA1 |year=2002 |publisher=Orient Blackswan |isbn=978-81-250-2194-0 |page=1 }}</ref> The region was earlier known as Jejabhukti or Jejakabhukti ("Jeja's province"). According to the inscriptions of the [[Chandela]] dynasty, this name derived from Jeja, the nickname of their ruler [[Jayashakti]]. However, it is possible that the name derives from an even earlier name of the region: "Jajhauti" or "Jijhoti". After the Bundelas replaced the Chandelas around 14th century, the region came to be known as Bundelkhand after them.<ref>{{cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=irHN2UA_Z7gC&pg=PA1 |title=The Early Rulers of Khajurāho |first=Sisirkumar |last=Mitra |publisher=Motilal Banarsidass |year=1977 |isbn=9788120819979 |pages=1–4 }}</ref>
Bundelkhand means "[[Bundela]] domain".<ref>{{cite book |first=Ravindra K. |last=Jain |title=Between History and Legend: Status and Power in Bundelkhand |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=fghQhiowlycC&pg=PA1 |year=2002 |publisher=Orient Blackswan |isbn=978-81-250-2194-0 |page=1 }}</ref> The region was earlier known as Jejabhukti or Jejakabhukti ("Jeja's province"). According to the inscriptions of the [[Chandela]] dynasty, this name derived from Jeja, the nickname of their ruler [[Jayashakti]]. However, it is possible that this name derives from an even earlier name of the region: "Jajhauti" or "Jijhoti" ([[Khangar (community)|khangar's]] capital). After the Bundelas replaced the Chandelas around 14th century, the region came to be known as Bundelkhand after them.<ref>{{cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=irHN2UA_Z7gC&pg=PA1 |title=The Early Rulers of Khajurāho |first=Sisirkumar |last=Mitra |publisher=Motilal Banarsidass |year=1977 |isbn=9788120819979 |pages=1–4 }}</ref>
 
==Geography==
Bundelkhand lies between the [[Indo-Gangetic Plain]] to the north and the [[Vindhya Range]] to the south. It is a gently sloping upland, distinguished by barren hilly terrain with sparse vegetation, although it was historically forested. The plains of Bundelkhand are intersected by three mountain ranges, the [[Vindhya Range|Vindhya]], [[Fauna Range|Fauna]] and [[Bander]] chains, the highest elevation not exceeding 600 meters above sea-level. Beyond these ranges the country is further diversified by isolated hills rising abruptly from a common level, and presenting from their steep and nearly inaccessible scarps eligible sites for forts and strongholds of local kings. The general slope of the country is towards the northeast, as indicated by the course of the rivers which traverse or bound the territory, and finally discharge themselves into the [[Yamuna River]].
 
[[File:Bundelkhand region.png|thumb|Map showing the Bundelkhand region with major cities and rivers.]]
 
The principal rivers are the [[Sindh River|Sindh]], [[Betwa River|Betwa]], [[Shahzad River]], [[Ken River|Ken]], [[Bagahin River|Bagahin]], [[Tamsa River|Tons]] [[Pahuj River|Pahuj]], [[Dhasan River|Dhasan]] and [[Chambal River|Chambal]]. [[Kali Sindh River|The Kali Sindh]], rising in [[Malwa]], marks the western frontier of Bundelkhand. Parallel to this river, but further east, is the course of the Betwa. Still farther to the east flows the Ken, followed in succession by the Bagahin and Tons (also known as [[Tamsa River|Tamsa]]). The [[Yamuna]] and the Ken are the only two navigable rivers. Notwithstanding the large number of streams, the depression of their channels and height of their banks render them for the most part unsuitable for the purposes of irrigation, which is conducted by means of ponds and tanks. These artificial lakes are usually formed by throwing embankments across the lower extremities of valleys, and thus arresting and impounding the waters flowing through them.
 
===Ecology===
Since 2007, Bundelkhand region has been facing severe drought problems. Normal rainy days in Bundelkhand is 52 days (metrological department of India) but last six years its restricted 24 days. Timing of Monsoon usually in this area is second week of June but, Year 2008 this season saw rains, but in the second week of June alone the region received around 32 percent of its total rainfall. Farmers were not prepared for sowing. Then till July 2008, most of the Bundelkhand region received around 55 percent of its total average rainfall. This change caused floods and widespread losses in livestock and top soil.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.mediaforrights.org/environment/1002-environment|title=Environment|first=Super|last=User|website=mediaforrights.org}}</ref> In Bundelkhand region, average level of rainfall is 800–900&nbsp;mm. (Ramesh et al. 2002), But, during the last six years Bundelkhand received only 400–450&nbsp;mm annual rainfall. Agriculture production also decreased in this areas. In 2000, this region used to contribute 15 percent of the state's total food grain production, which has now come down to 7 percent. A once food secure zone has now become a symbol of insecurity and migration due to climate change. In this area various livelihoods such as fishing, vegetable production and traditional betel leaf farming are facing one of the worst crises ever.


==History==
==History==
The Chandelas were a powerful dynasty in Central India, ruling from the 9th to the 12th century. They are best known for constructing the temples of Khajuraho, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.<ref>{{cite book |last=Michell |first=George |author-link=George Michell |year=1990 |title=The Penguin Guide to the Monuments of India, Volume 1: Buddhist, Jain, Hindu |publisher=Penguin Books |isbn=978-0-14-008144-2 |page=327}}</ref> The Chandelas ruled over a vast territory, and their influence gradually diminished until their eventual fall in 1182 CE.


===Medieval Period & Maratha Rule===
After the decline of the [[Chandela]], the Khangar community, an ancient Kshatriya clan, established their rule over parts of present-day Bundelkhand from the late 12th century until the mid-14th century.<ref name=Mittal2003>{{cite book |last=Mittal |first=J. P. |year=2003 |title=History of Ancient India: A New Version |publisher=Atlantic Publishers & Distributors |isbn=978-8126906154 |pages=272}}</ref> The Khangar dynasty had its seat of power at Garh Kundar, a fort built by Khet Singh Khangar.<ref name=Mittal2003 /> Their rule over Jujhauti, a region in Bundelkhand, began after the fall of the Chandels in 1182 CE.<ref name=Mittal2003 />
{{Unreferenced section|date=June 2021}}
After [[khangar]] dynasty the [[Chandela]] clan ruled Bundelkhand from the 9th to the 16th centuries. In the early 14th century they were feudatories of the [[Pratihara]]s of [[Kannauj]], and ruled from the fortress-city of [[Kalinjar]]. A dynastic struggle among the Pratiharas allowed the Chandelas and other feudatories to assert their independence. The Chandelas captured the strategic fortress of [[Gwalior]]. 10th century ruler [[Dhanga]] left many inscriptions, and endowed a large number of [[Jain]] and [[Hindu]] temples. Dhanga's grandson Vidyadhara expanded the Chandela kingdom to its greatest extent, extending the Chandela dominions to the [[Chambal River]] in the northwest and south to the [[Narmada River]]. The [[Afghanistan|Afghan]] king [[Mahmud of Ghazni]] attacked the Chandela dominions during Vidyadhara's reign, but were repelled by the Chandela Rajputs. The Chandelas built the famous temple-city of [[Khajuraho]] between the mid-10th and mid-11th centuries. During the Chandela period, Bundelkhand was home to a flourishing [[Jain]] community and numerous Jain temples were built in that period.


In the 12th century, the Rajput [[Chauhan]] rulers of [[Ajmer]] challenged the Chandelas. The Muslim conquests of the early 13th century reduced the Chandela domains, although they survived until the 16th century as minor chieftains. [[Bundela]] Rajputs grew to prominence starting in the 16th century. Orchha was founded in the 16th century by the Bundela chief [[Rudra Pratap Singh]], who became the first [[raja]] of Orchha. In 1545, [[Sher Shah Suri]] was killed while attempting to capture [[Kalinjar Fort]] from the local Bharshiva king.
By the 14th century, the [[Bundela]] dynasty emerged and supplanted the Khangar rulers.<ref name=WilsonBundela /> According to [[David Ludden]], ask it was shaped by Rajput conquests from the 10th century onward, the powerful Rajput clans of Bundelkhand became the raja rulers of the region, where they later submitted to the under the rule [[Mughal Empire]]. From that point onwards, they kept expanding east into the 19th century. Lesser Rajput branches (thakurs) were the main landlords, ruling villages of farming castes like Kurmis, Lodhis, Ahirs, and Gujars. Kurmis rose politically; some Ahirs married into Rajput families.Villages were linked by marriage, land, and labour migration. Officially, it was the land of Bundela Rajputs. Stronger Bundela clans dominated the east, leaving western thakurs more independent.The region was divided both by rival Rajput clans and by caste hierarchies. After Aurangzeb's death in 1707, the Bundelas renounced the authority of the Mughal empire.<ref>{{Cite book
|author= David Ludden
|author-link=David Ludden
|title  = India and South Asia: A Short History
|date    = 2013
|publisher = Oneworld Publications
|isbn    = 9781780741086
|quote=Bundelkhand... a region defined historically by ethnic patterns of residence, migration, and power relations... they were still expanding eastward in the early nineteenth century...lineage ruled over a specific... major subordinate farming castes: Lodhis, Kurmis, Kachhis, Ahirs, and Gujars... Kurmis rose up in the political ranks... Under the Mughals, Bundelkhand became known officially as the land of Bundela Rajputs
|language = en
|url    = https://www.google.co.id/books/edition/India_and_South_Asia/pBq9DwAAQBAJ?hl=en
|access-date = 2025-12-08
}}</ref>


The region came under [[Mughal Empire|Mughal]] rule from the 15th to 17th centuries, although the hilly, forested terrain of the sparsely populated region made it difficult to control. [[Akbar]]'s governors at [[Kalpi]], [[Jhansi]], [[Allahabad]] maintained authority over the surrounding districts, and the Bundela chiefs were in a state of chronic revolt, which culminated in the war of independence under [[Maharaja Chhatrasal|Chhatrasal]]. On the outbreak of his rebellion in 1671 he occupied a large province to the south of the Yamuna and eventually Mughals were forced to settle his claim over this newly won territory. Soon infighting spread in between Bundela Chiefs and Mughals seized this as an opportunity to ascertain their claim over this area again. The famous Mughal Governor Bangash Khan set out from Allahabad to capture Maharaj Chatrasal. One by one forts fell down and Maharaja Chatrasal was cornered in Jaitpura. After 6 months of fighting, he sends out a message to Peshwa Bajirao for help, which he equally responded. The Marathas contested severely and defeated Bangesh Khan in the pitched battle of Jaitpur and Mahoba. On his death in 1732, he bequeathed one-third of his dominions, including [[Jalaun]], [[Jhansi]] and [[Banda, Uttar Pradesh|Banda]] domains to Peshwa allies, who in due time succeeded in controlling the whole of Bundelkhand, with the local rulers as tributaries to the Marathas. Under Peshwa Rule, the Bundelkhand was divided into 11 personal subas of him and his families and relatives were posted in Kalpi, Shivpuri, Charkhari, Jalon, Mahoba, Jahnsi, Banda, Karwi, Kalinjar, Mathondh & Sagar. Peace and tranquility prevailed and the masses were at large saved from the tyranny of Mughals. However, the Peshwa - Bundela tussle continued by the fact that Bundelas always considered Peshwas entry into Bundelkhand as illegal. From 1732 to 1785, Maratha forces were the masters of India and people of Bundelkhand formed the much revreained Peshwa Huzurat battalions of Maratahs. They fought in Punjab, Attock, Peshawar, Kashmir &  Bengal. In 1761 Battle Of Panipath, Bundelkhand lost around 6 thousand soldiers in direct hand-to-hand combat battle with Durranies, yet they were able to push Rohillas out of India. 1785 - 1787 was a period of resurgence in Bundela power, but was resisted by Ali Bahadur of Banda. He warred with the Bundelas and was successful in saving his dominions from them. The power center of Bundelkhand shifted from Jhansi to Banda and Ali bahadur declared himself Nawab of Banda. He is also called the " Conqueror of Bundelkhand " and was associated with both Peshwa & Bundela royalty by blood lines. After the fall of Pune in 1802, the East India Company signed the Treaty Of Bassein and Peshwas were granted a sanad in Bithoor. Bundelkhand was placed under newly created BUNDELKHAND AGENCY which signed separate treaties with 11 Peshwa Subas & Bundela states.
Before the advent of British colonial rule in India, the region of Bundelkhand also included several princely states, such as [[Orchha]], [[Datia]], and [[Samthar]].<ref name=WilsonBundela>{{cite book |last=Hunter |first=William Wilson |author-link=William Wilson Hunter |year=1885 |chapter=Bundelkhand |chapter-url=https://archive.org/details/imperialgazettee03huntuoft/page/150/mode/2up |title=The Imperial Gazetteer of India |volume=III |edition=2nd |location=London |publisher=Trübner & Co. |page=150}}</ref> Also, kingdoms such as [[Damoh]], Ramgarh were ruled by [[Lodhi (caste)|Lodhi Rajputs]].<ref>{{cite news |title=Bundela Uprising of 1842 |url=https://amritmahotsav.nic.in/district-reopsitory-detail.htm?7299}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://amritmahotsav.nic.in/unsung-heroes-detail.htm?314|title=Rani Avantibai of Ramgarh}}</ref>
 
===British rule, 1802–1947===
{{main|Bundelkhand Agency}}
The [[Marathas]] ceded parts of Bundelkhand, which were later called '''British Bundelkhand''', to the [[British India|British]] in the 1802 [[Treaty of Bassein (1802)|Treaty of Bassein]]. After 1802, many of the local rulers were granted {{transl|hi|sanads}} (leases) by the British, which entitled them to the lands they controlled at the death of Ali Bahadur, in return for the rulers signing a written bond of allegiance ({{transl|hi|ikrarnama}}) to the British. A political officer attached to the British forces in Bundelkhand supervised British relations with the '{{transl|hi|sanad}} states. In 1806 British protection was promised to the [[Maratha Confederacy|Maratha ruler]] of Jhansi, and in 1817 the British recognised his hereditary rights to Jhansi state. In 1818 the [[Peshwa]] in [[Pune]] ceded all his rights over Bundelkhand to the British at the conclusion of the [[Third Anglo-Maratha War]].
 
In February 1832, a terrible state of famine here was reported in the [[Samachar Darpan]], and this is reflected on in [[Letitia Elizabeth Landon]]'s harrowing poem, ''Scene in Bundelkhund'', published towards the end on that year.<br>
{{ws|[[s:Letitia Elizabeth Landon (L. E. L.) in Fisher's Drawing Room Scrap Book, 1835/Scene in Bundelkhund|Scene in Bundelkhund, a poem by L. E. L.]]}}
 
The {{transl|hi|sanad}} states were organised into the '''Bundelkhand Agency''' in 1811, when a political agent to the [[Governor-General of India]] was appointed and headquartered at [[Banda, Uttar Pradesh|Banda]] . In 1818 the headquarters were moved to [[Kalpi]], in 1824 to [[Hamirpur, Uttar Pradesh|Hamirpur]], and in 1832 back to Banda. The political agent was placed under the authority of the Lieutenant-Governor of the [[North-Western Provinces]], headquartered in Agra, in 1835. In 1849 authority over the Bundelkhand Agency was placed briefly under the Commissioner for the [[Saugor and Nerbudda Territories]], who appointed a political assistant based at [[Jhansi]]. Shortly thereafter, authority over Bundelkhand was placed under the [[Gwalior Residency|Resident at Gwalior]], and the headquarters of the political assistant was moved to [[Nowgong, Chhatarpur|Nowgong]], which remained until 1947.  In 1853 the Raja of Jhansi died childless, and his territory was annexed to British Bundelkhand. The [[Jhansi State]] and the [[Jalaun District|Jalaun]] and [[Chanderi]] districts were then formed into a superintendency. In 1854 Bundelkhand Agency was placed under the authority of the newly created [[Central India Agency]], headquartered at [[Indore]].
 
The widow of the Raja of Jhansi, [[Rani Lakshmi Bai]], protested against the annexation because her adopted son was not recognised as the heir to his adoptive father, and because the slaughter of cattle was permitted in the Jhansi territory. The [[Revolt of 1857]] found Jhansi ripe for rebellion. In June a few brave men of the 12th native infantry seized the fort containing the treasure and magazine, and massacred the European officers of the garrison. The Rani put herself at the head of the rebels, and they captured several of the neighbouring British districts and princely states allied to the British. She died bravely in battle in [[Gwalior]] in 1858. It was not till November 1858 that Jhansi was brought under British control.
 
After the revolt, Jhansi was given to the Maharaja of [[Gwalior state|Gwalior]], but came under British rule in 1886 when it was swapped for Gwalior fort. In 1865 the political assistant was replaced with a political agent. The eastern portion of the Agency was detached to form [[Bagelkhand Agency]] in 1871. The state of [[Khaniadhana State|Khaniadhana]] was transferred to the authority of the Gwalior Resident in 1888, and in 1896 [[Baraundha]], [[Jaso State|Jaso]], and the [[Chaube Jagirs]] were transferred to Bagelkhand. In 1901 there were 9 states, 13 estates, and the [[pargana]] of [[Alampur, Madhya Pradesh|Alampur]] belonging to [[Indore State]], with a total area of {{convert|9851|sqmi|km2|abbr=on}} and a total population of 1,308,326 in 1901. The most important of the states were [[Orchha State|Orchha]], [[Panna State|Panna]], [[Samthar State|Samthar]], [[Charkhari State|Charkhari]], [[Chhatarpur State|Chhatarpur]], [[Datia State|Datia]], [[Bijawar State|Bijawar]] and [[Ajaigarh State]]. Deforestation accelerated during British rule. The population of the agency decreased 13% between 1891 and 1901 due to the effects of famine. In 1931 Bagelkhand Agency, with the exception of the state of [[Rewa State]], was merged into [[Bundelkhand Agency]].
 
===Independent India, 1947–present===
After Indian independence in 1947, the princely states of Bundelkhand Agency were combined with those of the former [[Bagelkhand]] Agency to form the province of [[Vindhya Pradesh]], which became an Indian [[states and territories of India|state]] in 1950. On 1 November 1956, Vindhya Pradesh was merged into Madhya Pradesh.
 
Notorious dacoits like Phulan Devi, Nirbhay Gujar, Devi singh and Moorath Singh besides other robber gangs once ruled the area.


==Proposed Bundelkhand state==
==Proposed Bundelkhand state==


Bundelkhand comprises parts of [[Uttar Pradesh]] and [[Madhya Pradesh]]. While [[Bahujan Samaj Party]] government under [[Mayawati]] had proposed in 2011 creation of Bundelkhand from seven districts of [[Uttar Pradesh]], organizations such as [[Bundelkhand Akikrit Party]] (BAP) and [[Bundelkhand Mukti Morcha]] (BMM) want it to include six districts from [[Madhya Pradesh]] as well.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1P3-1921363201.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150329163935/http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1P3-1921363201.html |url-status=dead |archive-date=29 March 2015 |title=Mayawati's proposal to divide Uttar Pradesh into four States goes far beyond disturbing the State's politics ahead of the elections |work=The Hindu |access-date=2019-07-04 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1P3-1921363201.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150329163935/http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1P3-1921363201.html |url-status=dead |archive-date=2015-03-29 |title=Mayawati-kind-of-Bundelkhand not acceptable: Bundela |via=Highbeam |access-date=2015-03-30}}</ref> [[Uma Bharati]] of [[Bharatiya Janata Party]] has promised separate state of Bundelkhand within three years if her party voted to power, during campaign for [[2014 Indian general election|Loksabha Election, 2014]] at [[Jhansi]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://indianexpress.com/article/india/politics/uma-bharti-promises-separate-bundelkhand-to-voters-in-jhansi/ |title=Uma Bharti promises separate Bundelkhand to voters in Jhansi |work=The Indian Express|date=2014-04-10 |access-date=2015-03-30}}</ref> Similar promise was made by Congress leader [[Pradeep Jain Aditya]] during [[2014 Indian general election|Loksabha Election, 2014]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.news18.com/videos/uttar-pradesh/ls-polls-pradeep-jain-aditya-uma-bharti-promise-separate-bundelkhand-state-401373.html |title=LS polls: Pradeep Jain Aditya, Uma Bharti promise separate Bundelkhand state |publisher=News18.com |access-date=2015-03-30}}</ref>
Bundelkhand comprises parts of [[Uttar Pradesh]] and [[Madhya Pradesh]]. While [[Bahujan Samaj Party]] government under [[Mayawati]] had proposed in 2011 creation of Bundelkhand from seven districts of [[Uttar Pradesh]], organizations such as Bundelkhand Akikrit Party and [[Bundelkhand Mukti Morcha]] (BMM) want it to include six districts from [[Madhya Pradesh]] as well.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1P3-1921363201.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150329163935/http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1P3-1921363201.html |url-status=dead |archive-date=29 March 2015 |title=Mayawati's proposal to divide Uttar Pradesh into four States goes far beyond disturbing the State's politics ahead of the elections |work=The Hindu |access-date=2019-07-04 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1P3-1921363201.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150329163935/http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1P3-1921363201.html |url-status=dead |archive-date=2015-03-29 |title=Mayawati-kind-of-Bundelkhand not acceptable: Bundela |access-date=2015-03-30}}</ref> [[Uma Bharati]] of [[Bharatiya Janata Party]] has promised separate state of Bundelkhand within three years if her party voted to power, during campaign for [[2014 Indian general election|Loksabha Election, 2014]] at [[Jhansi]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://indianexpress.com/article/india/politics/uma-bharti-promises-separate-bundelkhand-to-voters-in-jhansi/ |title=Uma Bharti promises separate Bundelkhand to voters in Jhansi |work=The Indian Express|date=2014-04-10 |access-date=2015-03-30}}</ref> Similar promise was made by Congress leader [[Pradeep Jain Aditya]] during [[2014 Indian general election|Loksabha Election, 2014]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.news18.com/videos/uttar-pradesh/ls-polls-pradeep-jain-aditya-uma-bharti-promise-separate-bundelkhand-state-401373.html |title=LS polls: Pradeep Jain Aditya, Uma Bharti promise separate Bundelkhand state |publisher=News18.com |access-date=2015-03-30}}</ref>
 
Since the early 1960s there has been a movement for establishing a Bundelkhand state or promoting development of the region. Bundelkhand is geographically the central part of India covering some part of Madhya Pradesh and some part of Uttar Pradesh. (At Sagar is the exact centre of the original undivided India: the granite bench mark by British surveyors indicating this is placed in the compound of a church in Sagar Cantonment.) In spite of being rich in minerals, the people of Bundelkhand are very poor and the region is underdeveloped and underrepresented in state and central politics. There are several local parties and organisations, some promoting further development of the region and some seeking statehood.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://daily.bhaskar.com/news/MP-BHO-demand-for-seperate-bundelkhand-reignited-ahead-of-assembly-polls-4226793-NOR.html |title=Demand for separate Bundelkhand reignited ahead of assembly polls separate |publisher=Daily.bhaskar.com |date=2013-04-05 |access-date=2015-03-30}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|author=Atiq Khan |url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/nod-for-telangana-fuels-the-demand-for-bundelkhand/article63277.ece |title=Nod for Telangana fuels the demand for Bundelkhand |work=The Hindu|date=2009-12-10 |access-date=2015-03-30}}</ref> The agrarian crisis and farmers' suicides are also cited as reasons for separate statehood.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.epw.in/states/farmers-suicides-and-statehood-demand-bundelkhand.html |title=Farmers' Suicides and Statehood Demand in Bundelkhand &#124; Economic and Political Weekly |publisher=Epw.in |date=2011-07-09 |access-date=2015-03-30}}</ref>


;Uttar Pradesh
Since the early 1960s there has been a movement for establishing a Bundelkhand state or promoting development of the region. Bundelkhand is geographically the central part of India covering some part of Madhya Pradesh and some part of Uttar Pradesh. (At Sagar is the exact centre of the original undivided India: the granite bench mark by British surveyors indicating this is placed in the compound of a church in Sagar Cantonment.) In spite of being rich in minerals, the people of Bundelkhand are very poor and the region is underdeveloped and underrepresented in state and central politics. There are several local parties and organisations, some promoting further development of the region and some seeking statehood.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://daily.bhaskar.com/news/MP-BHO-demand-for-seperate-bundelkhand-reignited-ahead-of-assembly-polls-4226793-NOR.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141107023426/http://daily.bhaskar.com/news/MP-BHO-demand-for-seperate-bundelkhand-reignited-ahead-of-assembly-polls-4226793-NOR.html |url-status=dead |archive-date=7 November 2014 |title=Demand for separate Bundelkhand reignited ahead of assembly polls separate |publisher=Daily.bhaskar.com |date=2013-04-05 |access-date=2015-03-30}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|author=Atiq Khan |url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/nod-for-telangana-fuels-the-demand-for-bundelkhand/article63277.ece |title=Nod for Telangana fuels the demand for Bundelkhand |work=The Hindu|date=2009-12-10 |access-date=2015-03-30}}</ref> The agrarian crisis and farmers' suicides are also cited as reasons for separate statehood.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.epw.in/states/farmers-suicides-and-statehood-demand-bundelkhand.html |title=Farmers' Suicides and Statehood Demand in Bundelkhand &#124; Economic and Political Weekly |publisher=Epw.in |date=2011-07-09 |access-date=2015-03-30}}</ref>
In November 2011 [[Uttar Pradesh]] Council of Ministers proposed to split the state into four parts, with one part being Bundelkhand.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ndtv.com/india-news/mayawati-wants-to-divide-up-into-4-states-other-parties-cornered-566270 |title=Mayawati wants to divide UP into 4 states, other parties cornered; NDTV |publisher=ndtv.com |date=2011-11-16 |access-date=2015-08-04}}</ref>
The proposed state includes the following districts:
[[File:UP region map.gif|250px|thumb|Regions of [[Uttar Pradesh]]; Bundelkhand is in light blue.]]
*From Uttar Pradesh (three districts from [[Jhansi Division]] and four districts from [[Chitrakoot Division]])
** [[Jhansi district|Jhansi]] (currently part of [[Jhansi Division]])
** [[Jalaun district|Jalaun]] (currently part of [[Jhansi Division]])
** [[Lalitpur district, Uttar Pradesh|Lalitpur]] (currently part of [[Jhansi Division]])
** [[Chitrakoot district|Chitrakoot]] (currently part of [[Chitrakoot Division]])
** [[Banda district (India)|Banda]] (currently part of [[Chitrakoot Division]])
** [[Hamirpur district, Uttar Pradesh|Hamirpur]] (currently part of [[Chitrakoot Division]])
** [[Mahoba district|Mahoba]] (currently part of [[Chitrakoot Division]])


;Madhya Pradesh
In November 2011, the [[Uttar Pradesh]] Council of Ministers proposed to split the state into four parts, with one part being Bundelkhand.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ndtv.com/india-news/mayawati-wants-to-divide-up-into-4-states-other-parties-cornered-566270 |title=Mayawati wants to divide UP into 4 states, other parties cornered; NDTV |publisher=ndtv.com |date=2011-11-16 |access-date=2015-08-04}}</ref>
*From Madhya Pradesh (one district from [[Gwalior Division]] and six districts from [[Sagar Division]])
** [[Datia District|Datia]] (currently part of [[Gwalior Division]])
** [[Chhatarpur District|Chhatarpur]] (currently part of [[Sagar Division]])
** [[Damoh District|Damoh]] (currently part of [[Sagar Division]])
** [[Panna District|Panna]] (currently part of [[Sagar Division]])
** [[Sagar District|Sagar]] (currently part of [[Sagar Division]])
** [[Tikamgarh District|Tikamgarh]] (currently part of [[Sagar Division]])
** [[Vidisha District]] (Bhopal division)
** [[Guna District]] (Gwalior division)
** [[Ashoknagar District]] (Gwalior division)
The last three are linguistically and culturally considered to be Bundelkhand although they were ruled by the Scindia rulers.
In addition to the above districts, sometimes the following districts of Madhya Pradesh & Rajasthan are considered as being part of Bundelkhand:
*[[Madhya Bharat]]/[[Gird, India|Gird]] region
** [[Bhind district|Bhind]]
** [[Gwalior district|Gwalior]]
** [[Morena district|Morena]]
** [[Sheopur district|Sheopur]]
** [[Shivpuri district|Shivpuri]]
** [[Dhaulpur district|Dhaulpur]]
 
==Culture==
The [[Bundeli language]] is the most common of the [[Hindi dialects]] spoken in the area. It in turn consists of several sub-dialects. The accent varies in various regions even though unmistakably of a single origin.
 
The region is predominantly [[Hindu]]. However, [[Jainism]] is historically significant in Bundelkhand, and several [[Tirtha (Jainism)|Tirtha]]s are located in this region. Many prominent Jain scholars of the 20th century have been from this region and also in historically significant tradition of Buddhism. Nag people's ancestor were preached buddha-dhamma.
 
===Folk dances===
 
Bundelkhand has following folk dances. Badhai, Rai, Saira, Alha, Jawara, Akhada, Shaitan, Dhimrai.
 
===Radio===
A community radio station, Radio Bundelkhand, was launched in Orchha on 23 October 2008. It is an initiative of the [[Development Alternatives Group]]. The radio station broadcasts daily programs in the Bundeli dialect and devotes significant amount of its broadcast time to local issues, culture, education and the rich tradition of Bundeli folk music. The station is available on 90.4&nbsp;MHz.


==Religion==
==Religion==
 
{{Pie chart| thumb = center
{{Pie chart| thumb = right
|label1=[[Hindu]]|value1=93.17|color1=Orange
|label1=[[Hindu]]|value1=93.17|color1=Orange
|label2=[[Muslim]]|value2=5.58|color2=green
|label2=[[Muslim]]|value2=5.58|color2=green
|label3=Others|value3=1.25|color3=grey
|label3=Others|value3=1.25|color3=grey
|caption=Religion in Bundelkhand (2011)<ref name="censusindia.gov.in">http://censusindia.gov.in/</ref></small>
|caption=Religion in Bundelkhand (2011)<ref name="censusindia.gov.in">{{cite web |url=http://censusindia.gov.in/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060510061218/http://www.censusindia.gov.in/ |archive-date=10 May 2006 |title=Census of India}}</ref>
}}
}}


==Prominent Bundelkhandis==
==Notable people==
*[[Goswami Tulsidas]], the author of [[Ramcharitmanas]], born in [[Rajapur, Uttar Pradesh|Rajapur]] [on the bank of river Yamuna, Chitrakoot district].
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<!---♦♦♦ Please keep the list in alphabetical order by LAST NAME ♦♦♦--->
* [[Avantibai]], (1831–1858) [[Lodhi (caste)|Lodhi]] Queen of estate of [[Dindori, Madhya Pradesh|Ramgarh]], one of the key figures in the [[Indian Rebellion of 1857]]
* [[Gopal Bhargava]], prominent [[BJP]] leader, Senior Most Legislator & Cabinet Minister of [[Madhya Pradesh]]
* [[Uma Bharti]], Prominent BJP politician and the former MLA from Charkhari in UP's Bundelkhand region.
* [[Raja Bundela]] - (Raja Rajeshwar Pratap Singh Judev) is an Indian actor, producer, politician and civil activist.
* [[Dhyan Chand]], (29 August 1905 – 3 December 1979) army Major and an Indian [[field hockey]] player, regarded by many as the greatest field hockey player in history.
* Maharaja [[Chhatrasal]] Chhatrasal Bundela was an early modern Indian Rajput king, who fought against the Mughal Empire, and established his own kingdom in Bundelkhand
* [[Phoolan Devi]], (1963–2001) popularly known as "Bandit Queen", was an Indian [[dacoit]] and later a politician.
* [[Raghunath Vinayak Dhulekar]] MCA & Member of Parliament 1952, MLC & Speaker Vidhan Parishad 1958, social leader
* [[Rani Durgavati]], Queen of Gondwana (born to [[Chandela]]s of [[Mahoba]] / [[Kalinjar]]) immortalised owing to her bravery in defending her kingdom against invasion by Mughal emperor [[Akbar]]
* [[Hari Singh Gour|Dr. Hari Singh Gaur]], Member of Constitution draft committee and founder of [[University of Sagar]], later named the [[Dr. Hari Singh Gour University]] by the state government in 1983.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Vijayawada/university-of-saugar-alumniin-celebration-mode/article2237756.ece |title=University of Saugar alumniin celebration mode |work=The Hindu|date=18 July 2011 |access-date=2015-08-04}}</ref>
* [[Maithili Sharan Gupt]], National Hindi poet
* [[Indeevar]], one of the leading Hindi film lyricists in 1960s and 70s{{citation needed|date=April 2012}}
* [[Jhalkaribai]] (22 November 1830 – 1858) was an Indian [[Koli people|Koli]]<ref>{{Cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=7feHAwAAQBAJ&pg=PA119|title=Women Heroes and Dalit Assertion in North India: Culture, Identity and Politics|last=Narayan|first=Badri|date=2006-11-07|publisher=SAGE Publications India|isbn=9788132102809|language=en}}</ref> woman soldier who played an important role in the Indian Rebellion of 1857 during the battle of Jhansi.
* [[Keshavdas]] (1555 – 1617), usually known by the mononym Keshavdas or Keshavadasa, was a Sanskrit scholar & Hindi poet
* [[Keshavdas]] (1555 – 1617), usually known by the mononym Keshavdas or Keshavadasa, was a Sanskrit scholar & Hindi poet
* [[Tatya Tope]], Freedom Fighter 1857 War
* [[Subodh Khandekar]], Olympian hockey player
*[[Padmakar Bhatt]] , Poet
* [[Tushar Khandker]], player on Indian national hockey team
*[[Major Dhyanchand]]
*[[Jhalkari Bai]] (22 November 1830 – 1858) was an Indian [[Koli people|Koli]]<ref>{{Cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=7feHAwAAQBAJ&pg=PA119|title=Women Heroes and Dalit Assertion in North India: Culture, Identity and Politics|last=Narayan|first=Badri|date=2006-11-07|publisher=SAGE Publications India|isbn=9788132102809|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=BvAxDwAAQBAJ&q=jhalkari+koli&pg=PT14|title=Our President: Ram Nath Kovind|last=Sharma|first=Ashok Kumar|date=2017-08-21|publisher=Diamond Pocket Books Pvt Ltd|isbn=9789352783953|language=en}}</ref> woman soldier who played an important role in the Indian Rebellion of 1857 during the battle of Jhansi.
<!--To be included, an entry must already have a Wikipedia article or an independent, reliable source. Otherwise, it will be removed.-->
[[File:Dhyanchand statue.jpg|thumb|Statue of Dhyan Chand on Sipri Hill]]
[[File:Rani Durgavati.jpg|thumb|Rani Durgavati maravi]]
*[[Chhatrasal]]
* [[Rani Avantibai]], (died 20 March 1858) [[Lodhi (caste)|Lodhi]] Queen of estate of [[Dindori, Madhya Pradesh|Ramgarh]], one of the key figures in the [[Indian Rebellion of 1857]]
* [[Rani Lakshmibai]], (1828–1858) [[Maratha]] Queen of princely state of [[Jhansi]], one of the key figures in the [[Indian Rebellion of 1857]].
* [[Raghunath Vinayak Dhulekar]] MCA & Member of Parliament 1952, MLC &  Speaker Vidhan Parishad 1958, notable pleader, Social leader
* [[Mastani]] Second wife of Peshwa [[Bajirao I]], the prime minister. Daughter of [[Maharaja Chhatrasal]]<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://blogs.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/pulse/bajirao-mastani-and-the-history-of-bundelkhand/|title=Bajirao Mastani and the history of Bundelkhand|work=[[The Times of India]] Blog|access-date=2017-10-06|language=en-US}}</ref>
* [[Mastani]] Second wife of Peshwa [[Bajirao I]], the prime minister. Daughter of [[Maharaja Chhatrasal]]<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://blogs.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/pulse/bajirao-mastani-and-the-history-of-bundelkhand/|title=Bajirao Mastani and the history of Bundelkhand|work=[[The Times of India]] Blog|access-date=2017-10-06|language=en-US}}</ref>
* [[Saumitra Rawat]], Surgeon, Chairman and Head, Surgical Gastroenterology and Liver Transplant, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, New Delhi; Bundelkhand Gaurav Samman, 2015 Padma Shri
* [[Maithili Sharan Gupt]], National Hindi Poet
* Pandit [[Nathuram Premi]] (1881–1960), Prominent publisher of Hindi, Sanskrit and Urdu literature as well as Jain literature. Independent scholar, Jain historian and editor of several Jain works. Founder of [[Hindi Granth Ratnakar Karyalay]] (24 September 1912), Manikacandra Digambara Jain Granthamala and Jain Hitaishi.
*[[Phoolan Devi]], (1963–2001) popularly known as "Bandit Queen", was an Indian [[dacoit]] and later a politician.
*[[Uma Bharti]], Prominent BJP politician and the former MLA from Charkhari in UP's Bundelkhand region.
* [[Hari Singh Gour|Dr. Hari Singh Gaur]], Member of Constitution draft committee and founder of [[University of Sagar]]. The University of Sagar was later named the [[Dr. Hari Singh Gour University]] by the state government in 1983.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Vijayawada/university-of-saugar-alumniin-celebration-mode/article2237756.ece |title=University of Saugar alumniin celebration mode |work=The Hindu|date=18 July 2011 |access-date=2015-08-04}}</ref>
* [[Vrindavan Lal Verma]], Hindi novelist (Mrig Nayani, Jhansi Ki Rani)
* [[Indeevar]], one of the leading Hindi film lyricists in 1960s and 70s{{citation needed|date=April 2012}}
* Rani [[Durgavati]], Queen of Gondwana (born to [[Chandela]]s of [[Mahoba]] / [[Kalinjar]]) immortalised owing to her bravery in defending her kingdom against invasion by Mughal emperor [[Akbar]]
* [[Maharishi Mahesh Yogi]], of [[Transcendental Meditation]]
*[[Harishankar Parsai]] -  He was a noted satirist and humorist of modern Hindi literature and is known for his simple and direct style.
*[[Rajneesh]] - He was mystic, philosopher, acknowledged to be enlightened being by many
*[[Raja Bundela]] - Raja Bundela (Raja Rajeshwar Pratap Singh Judev) is an Indian actor, producer, politician and civil activist.
* [[Pankaj Mishra]], Indian essayist and novelist
* [[Pankaj Mishra]], Indian essayist and novelist
* [[Joy Mukherjee]], Indian actor and director
* [[Joy Mukherjee]], Indian actor and director
Line 195: Line 145:
* [[Sashadhar Mukherjee]], producer of Hindi films
* [[Sashadhar Mukherjee]], producer of Hindi films
* [[Subodh Mukherjee]], director, producer, writer of Hindi cinema.
* [[Subodh Mukherjee]], director, producer, writer of Hindi cinema.
* [[Subodh Khandekar]], Olympian hockey player
* [[Harishankar Parsai]] - a noted satirist and humourist of modern Hindi literature, known for his simple and direct style.
* [[Tushar Khandekar]], player on Indian national hockey team
* [[Nathuram Premi]] (1881–1960), publisher of Hindi, Sanskrit, Urdu and Jain literature. Independent scholar, Jain historian and editor of several Jain works.
* [[Rani of Jhansi]], (1828–1858) (AKA Lakshmibai Newalkar) [[Maratha]] Queen of princely state of [[Jhansi]], one of the key figures in the [[Indian Rebellion of 1857]].
* [[Rajneesh]] - Indian godman, mystic, and founder of the Rajneesh movement
* [[Tatya Tope]], freedom fighter, fought in [[Indian Rebellion of 1857]]
* [[Taran Svami]], Jain Spiritual Leader
* [[Tulsidas]], the author of ''[[Ramcharitmanas]]'', born in [[Rajapur, Uttar Pradesh|Rajapur]]
* [[Vrindavan Lal Verma]], Hindi novelist (Mrig Nayani, Jhansi Ki Rani)
* [[Maharishi Mahesh Yogi]], of [[Transcendental Meditation]]
<!---♦♦♦ Only add a person to this list if they already have their OWN article on the English Wikipedia ♦♦♦--->
<!---♦♦♦ Please keep the list in alphabetical order by LAST NAME ♦♦♦--->
 
==In art and literature==
{{wikisource|Letitia Elizabeth Landon (L. E. L.) in Fisher's Drawing Room Scrap Book, 1835/Scene in Bundelkhund|'Scene in Bundelkhund',<br>a poetical illustration<br /> by L. E. L.}}
An engraving of a picture by Henry Melville entitled ''Scene near Chillah Tarah Ghaut, Bundelkhund'' was published in Fisher's Drawing Room Scrap Book, 1835 alongside a poetical illustration by [[Letitia Elizabeth Landon]], ''Scene in Bundelkhund'', which alludes to the desperate conditions in the district due to the famine then prevailing.<ref>{{cite book|last =Landon|first=Letitia Elizabeth|title=Fisher's Drawing Room Scrap Book, 1835|url=https://play.google.com/books/reader?id=Bzk_AAAAYAAJ&pg=GBS.PA50|section=picture and poetical illustration|page=46|year=1834|publisher=Fisher, Son & Co.}}</ref>
 
The "nearly independent territory of Bundelcund" is featured in [[Jules Verne]]'s 1872 novel ''[[Around the World in Eighty Days]]'', as the scene where [[Phileas Fogg]] and [[Jean Passepartout]] rescue the Princess [[Aouda]].
 
In another of Verne's novels, ''[[The Mysterious Island]]'', Captain Nemo of ''[[Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Seas]]'' identifies himself as Prince Dakkar, son of the Hindu raja of Bundelkhand.
 
==Gallery==
 
<gallery class="center" widths="250" heights="188">
File:Dhyanchand statue.jpg|Statue of Dhyan Chand on Sipri Hill
File:Rani Durgavati.jpg|Rani Durgavati
</gallery>


==See also==
==See also==
* [[Rajputana]]
* [[Rajputana]]
* [[Jhalkari Bai]]
* [[List of cities in Bundelkhand]]
* [[Jainism in Bundelkhand]]


==References==
==References==
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* [https://web.archive.org/web/20080709063336/http://www.frontlineonnet.com/fl2405/stories/20070323000106600.htm ''Historic Blend'', Frontline, Volume 24 – Issue 05 :: 10–23 March 2007]
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20080709063336/http://www.frontlineonnet.com/fl2405/stories/20070323000106600.htm ''Historic Blend'', Frontline, Volume 24 – Issue 05 :: 10–23 March 2007]
* James Foote Holcomb, Helen Harriet Howe Holcomb, ''In the Heart of India, or, beginnings of missionary work in Bundela Land, with a short chapter on the characteristics of Bundelkhand and its people, and four chapters of Jhansi history''. Philadelphia: Westminster Press, 1905 [https://archive.org/details/heartofindia00holcuoft Text at archive.org]
* James Foote Holcomb, Helen Harriet Howe Holcomb, ''In the Heart of India, or, beginnings of missionary work in Bundela Land, with a short chapter on the characteristics of Bundelkhand and its people, and four chapters of Jhansi history''. Philadelphia: Westminster Press, 1905 [https://archive.org/details/heartofindia00holcuoft Text at archive.org]
* [http://www.thebetterindia.com/824/radio-bundelkhand-giving-voice-to-the-voiceless/ Radio Bundelkhand]


{{Historical regions of North India}}
{{Historical regions of North India}}

Latest revision as of 05:45, 4 February 2026


Bundelkhand
Chedi
Historical region
Proposed state
Jejakabhukti
Top to Bottom; Left to Right: Khajuraho Group of Monuments, Orchha Fort complex, Jhansi Fort, Neelkanth Temple at Kalinjar, Varaha statue at Eran and Raneh Falls
Location of Bundelkhand in India
Location of Bundelkhand in India
Coordinates: 25°26′N 78°34′E / 25.44°N 78.57°E / 25.44; 78.57
Country India
StateMadhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh
District(s)
  1. Sagar District
  2. Damoh District
  3. Panna District
  4. Chhatarpur District
  5. Tikamgarh District
  6. Datia District
  7. Niwari District
  8. Jhansi District
  9. Jalaun District
  10. Mahoba District
  11. Lalitpur District
  12. Chitrakoot District
  13. Banda District
  14. Hamirpur District
Area
 • Total70,747 km2 (27,316 sq mi)
Elevation
250−300 m (−730 ft)
Population
 (2011)
 • Total18,335,044
 • Density260/km2 (670/sq mi)
DemonymBundelkhandi/Bundeli
Languages
 • Major languagesBundeli,
Hindi
Time zoneUTC+05:30 (IST)
 • Summer (DST)+05:30
Historical capitalsBanda,
Ajaigarh,
Panna,
Orchha ,
Separated statesBanda,
Orchha,
Jhansi,
Panna,
Bijawar,
Ajaigarh,
Datia,
Hamirpur,
Charkhari,
Jaitpur,
Kulpahar,
Samthar,
Sarila,
Gursarai,
Barua sagar,
Moth,
Chirgaon

Bundelkhand (/ˈbʊndeɪlˌkhʌnd/, hi) is a geographical and cultural region and a proposed state and also a mountain range in central and North India. It corresponds to the Post-Vedic Chedi kingdom. The hilly region is now divided between the states of Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh, with the larger portion lying in the latter state.

Etymology[edit | edit source]

Bundelkhand means "Bundela domain".[1] The region was earlier known as Jejabhukti or Jejakabhukti ("Jeja's province"). According to the inscriptions of the Chandela dynasty, this name derived from Jeja, the nickname of their ruler Jayashakti. However, it is possible that the name derives from an even earlier name of the region: "Jajhauti" or "Jijhoti". After the Bundelas replaced the Chandelas around 14th century, the region came to be known as Bundelkhand after them.[2]

History[edit | edit source]

The Chandelas were a powerful dynasty in Central India, ruling from the 9th to the 12th century. They are best known for constructing the temples of Khajuraho, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.[3] The Chandelas ruled over a vast territory, and their influence gradually diminished until their eventual fall in 1182 CE.

After the decline of the Chandela, the Khangar community, an ancient Kshatriya clan, established their rule over parts of present-day Bundelkhand from the late 12th century until the mid-14th century.[4] The Khangar dynasty had its seat of power at Garh Kundar, a fort built by Khet Singh Khangar.[4] Their rule over Jujhauti, a region in Bundelkhand, began after the fall of the Chandels in 1182 CE.[4]

By the 14th century, the Bundela dynasty emerged and supplanted the Khangar rulers.[5] According to David Ludden, ask it was shaped by Rajput conquests from the 10th century onward, the powerful Rajput clans of Bundelkhand became the raja rulers of the region, where they later submitted to the under the rule Mughal Empire. From that point onwards, they kept expanding east into the 19th century. Lesser Rajput branches (thakurs) were the main landlords, ruling villages of farming castes like Kurmis, Lodhis, Ahirs, and Gujars. Kurmis rose politically; some Ahirs married into Rajput families.Villages were linked by marriage, land, and labour migration. Officially, it was the land of Bundela Rajputs. Stronger Bundela clans dominated the east, leaving western thakurs more independent.The region was divided both by rival Rajput clans and by caste hierarchies. After Aurangzeb's death in 1707, the Bundelas renounced the authority of the Mughal empire.[6]

Before the advent of British colonial rule in India, the region of Bundelkhand also included several princely states, such as Orchha, Datia, and Samthar.[5] Also, kingdoms such as Damoh, Ramgarh were ruled by Lodhi Rajputs.[7][8]

Proposed Bundelkhand state[edit | edit source]

Bundelkhand comprises parts of Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh. While Bahujan Samaj Party government under Mayawati had proposed in 2011 creation of Bundelkhand from seven districts of Uttar Pradesh, organizations such as Bundelkhand Akikrit Party and Bundelkhand Mukti Morcha (BMM) want it to include six districts from Madhya Pradesh as well.[9][10] Uma Bharati of Bharatiya Janata Party has promised separate state of Bundelkhand within three years if her party voted to power, during campaign for Loksabha Election, 2014 at Jhansi.[11] Similar promise was made by Congress leader Pradeep Jain Aditya during Loksabha Election, 2014.[12]

Since the early 1960s there has been a movement for establishing a Bundelkhand state or promoting development of the region. Bundelkhand is geographically the central part of India covering some part of Madhya Pradesh and some part of Uttar Pradesh. (At Sagar is the exact centre of the original undivided India: the granite bench mark by British surveyors indicating this is placed in the compound of a church in Sagar Cantonment.) In spite of being rich in minerals, the people of Bundelkhand are very poor and the region is underdeveloped and underrepresented in state and central politics. There are several local parties and organisations, some promoting further development of the region and some seeking statehood.[13][14] The agrarian crisis and farmers' suicides are also cited as reasons for separate statehood.[15]

In November 2011, the Uttar Pradesh Council of Ministers proposed to split the state into four parts, with one part being Bundelkhand.[16]

Religion[edit | edit source]

Religion in Bundelkhand (2011)[17]

  Hindu (93.17%)
  Muslim (5.58%)
  Others (1.25%)

Notable people[edit | edit source]

In art and literature[edit | edit source]

An engraving of a picture by Henry Melville entitled Scene near Chillah Tarah Ghaut, Bundelkhund was published in Fisher's Drawing Room Scrap Book, 1835 alongside a poetical illustration by Letitia Elizabeth Landon, Scene in Bundelkhund, which alludes to the desperate conditions in the district due to the famine then prevailing.[21]

The "nearly independent territory of Bundelcund" is featured in Jules Verne's 1872 novel Around the World in Eighty Days, as the scene where Phileas Fogg and Jean Passepartout rescue the Princess Aouda.

In another of Verne's novels, The Mysterious Island, Captain Nemo of Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Seas identifies himself as Prince Dakkar, son of the Hindu raja of Bundelkhand.

Gallery[edit | edit source]

  • Statue of Dhyan Chand on Sipri Hill
    Statue of Dhyan Chand on Sipri Hill
  • Rani Durgavati
    Rani Durgavati

See also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

  1. ↑ Jain, Ravindra K. (2002). Between History and Legend: Status and Power in Bundelkhand. Orient Blackswan. p. 1. ISBN 978-81-250-2194-0.
  2. ↑ Mitra, Sisirkumar (1977). The Early Rulers of Khajurāho. Motilal Banarsidass. pp. 1–4. ISBN 9788120819979.
  3. ↑ Michell, George (1990). The Penguin Guide to the Monuments of India, Volume 1: Buddhist, Jain, Hindu. Penguin Books. p. 327. ISBN 978-0-14-008144-2.
  4. ↑ 4.0 4.1 4.2 Mittal, J. P. (2003). History of Ancient India: A New Version. Atlantic Publishers & Distributors. p. 272. ISBN 978-8126906154.
  5. ↑ 5.0 5.1 Hunter, William Wilson (1885). "Bundelkhand". The Imperial Gazetteer of India. Vol. III (2nd ed.). London: Trübner & Co. p. 150.
  6. ↑ David Ludden (2013). India and South Asia: A Short History. Oneworld Publications. ISBN 9781780741086. Retrieved 8 December 2025. Bundelkhand... a region defined historically by ethnic patterns of residence, migration, and power relations... they were still expanding eastward in the early nineteenth century...lineage ruled over a specific... major subordinate farming castes: Lodhis, Kurmis, Kachhis, Ahirs, and Gujars... Kurmis rose up in the political ranks... Under the Mughals, Bundelkhand became known officially as the land of Bundela Rajputs
  7. ↑ "Bundela Uprising of 1842".
  8. ↑ "Rani Avantibai of Ramgarh".
  9. ↑ "Mayawati's proposal to divide Uttar Pradesh into four States goes far beyond disturbing the State's politics ahead of the elections". The Hindu. Archived from the original on 29 March 2015. Retrieved 4 July 2019.
  10. ↑ "Mayawati-kind-of-Bundelkhand not acceptable: Bundela". Archived from the original on 29 March 2015. Retrieved 30 March 2015.
  11. ↑ "Uma Bharti promises separate Bundelkhand to voters in Jhansi". The Indian Express. 10 April 2014. Retrieved 30 March 2015.
  12. ↑ "LS polls: Pradeep Jain Aditya, Uma Bharti promise separate Bundelkhand state". News18.com. Retrieved 30 March 2015.
  13. ↑ "Demand for separate Bundelkhand reignited ahead of assembly polls separate". Daily.bhaskar.com. 5 April 2013. Archived from the original on 7 November 2014. Retrieved 30 March 2015.
  14. ↑ Atiq Khan (10 December 2009). "Nod for Telangana fuels the demand for Bundelkhand". The Hindu. Retrieved 30 March 2015.
  15. ↑ "Farmers' Suicides and Statehood Demand in Bundelkhand | Economic and Political Weekly". Epw.in. 9 July 2011. Retrieved 30 March 2015.
  16. ↑ "Mayawati wants to divide UP into 4 states, other parties cornered; NDTV". ndtv.com. 16 November 2011. Retrieved 4 August 2015.
  17. ↑ "Census of India". Archived from the original on 10 May 2006.
  18. ↑ "University of Saugar alumniin celebration mode". The Hindu. 18 July 2011. Retrieved 4 August 2015.
  19. ↑ Narayan, Badri (7 November 2006). Women Heroes and Dalit Assertion in North India: Culture, Identity and Politics. SAGE Publications India. ISBN 9788132102809.
  20. ↑ "Bajirao Mastani and the history of Bundelkhand". The Times of India Blog. Retrieved 6 October 2017.
  21. ↑ Landon, Letitia Elizabeth (1834). "picture and poetical illustration". Fisher's Drawing Room Scrap Book, 1835. Fisher, Son & Co. p. 46.

External links[edit | edit source]

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