| subdivision_type1 = [[States and territories of India|State]]
| subdivision_type1 = [[States and territories of India|State]]
| subdivision_name1 = [[Bihar]]
| subdivision_name1 = {{flagicon image|Bihar Government Banner.png}} [[Bihar]]
| subdivision_type2 = [[Divisions of Bihar|Division]]
| subdivision_type2 = [[Divisions of Bihar|Division]]
| subdivision_name2 = [[Patna Division|Patna]]
| subdivision_name2 = [[Patna Division|Patna]]
| subdivision_type3 = [[List of districts of India|District]]
| subdivision_type3 = [[List of districts of India|District]]
| subdivision_name3 = [[Rohtas district|Rohtas]]
| subdivision_name3 = [[Rohtas district|Rohtas]]
| subdivision_type4 =
| subdivision_type4 =
| subdivision_name4 =
| subdivision_name4 =
| established_title = <!-- Established 1947-->
| established_title =
| established_date = <!--25 SEPTEMBER 1947-->
| established_date =
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| government_footnotes =
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| government_type = Municipal Corporation (Updated)
| government_type = Municipal Corporation
| governing_body = Sasaram Municipal Corporation
| governing_body = Sasaram Municipal Corporation
| unit_pref = Metric
| unit_pref = Metric
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| elevation_m = 108
| elevation_m = 110
| population_footnotes =
| population_footnotes =
| population_as_of = 2020
| population_as_of = 2020
| population_total = 358,283
| population_total = 358,283
| population_rank = [[List of cities in India by population|288th]]
| population_rank = [[List of cities in India by population|288th]]
| population_density_km2 = auto
| population_density_km2 = auto
| population_note =
| population_note =
| population_demonym = Sasaramite
| population_demonym = Sasaramite
| demographics_type1 = [[Language]]
| demographics_type1 = [[Language]]
| demographics1_title1 = Official
| demographics1_title1 = Official
| demographics1_info1 = [[Hindi language|Hindi]]<ref name="langoff">{{cite web|title=52nd Report of the Commissioner for Linguistic Minorities in India |url=http://nclm.nic.in/shared/linkimages/NCLM52ndReport.pdf|website=nclm.nic.in|publisher=[[Ministry of Minority Affairs]]|access-date=9 August 2020|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170525141614/http://nclm.nic.in/shared/linkimages/NCLM52ndReport.pdf|archive-date=25 May 2017}}</ref>
| demographics1_info1 = [[Hindi language|Hindi]]<ref name="langoff">{{cite web|title=52nd Report of the Commissioner for Linguistic Minorities in India |url=http://nclm.nic.in/shared/linkimages/NCLM52ndReport.pdf|website=nclm.nic.in|publisher=[[Ministry of Minority Affairs]]|access-date=9 August 2020|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170525141614/http://nclm.nic.in/shared/linkimages/NCLM52ndReport.pdf|archive-date=25 May 2017}}</ref>
| website = {{URL|http://sasaramcity.in//|Official District Website}}
| footnotes =
}}
}}
'''Sasaram''' ({{IPAc-en|audio=Sasaram Pronounciation.ogg|lang|}}) sometimes also spelled as '''Sahasram''', is an ancient historical city and a municipal corporation region in the [[Rohtas district]] of the [[Bihar]] [[States and union territories of India|state]] in [[East India|eastern India]], with a history that goes to thousands of years. During the prehistoric age, [[Gautama Buddha|Buddha]] walked through this way and lived for some days and then travelled to Gaya to be enlightened with verity and wisdom under the Mahabodhi tree, the city is also known as gateway of "Vihar" to visit rest "Bihar" including [[Gaya (India)|Gaya]], [[Rajgir|Rajgriha]], and [[Nalanda]].
'''Sasaram''' ({{pronunciation|Sasaram Pronounciation.ogg}}), also spelled as '''Shahasaram''' and '''Sasseram''',<ref>{{Cite journal |last=Thornton |first=J. H. |date=1874-06-01 |title=Report on Cholera in the Shahabad District |journal=The Indian Medical Gazette |volume=9 |issue=6 |pages=146–147 |issn=0019-5863 |pmc=5128170 |pmid=28995022}}</ref> is a historical city and a [[Municipal corporation (India)|municipal corporation]] region in the [[Rohtas district]] of [[Bihar|Bihar state]] in [[East India|eastern India]].
It has also served as the capital of the [[Sur Empire|Sur dynasty]] during [[Sher Shah Suri|Shershah Suri]] ruled over India in 16th Century, and was residence place sub capital of epic monarch [[Sahasrabahu|Sahstrabahu]] (Kartivirya Arjuna). T
The city served as the capital of the [[Sur Empire|Sur dynasty]] during [[Sher Shah Suri]]'s rule over India in the 16th century, and was residence place sub capital of epic monarch [[Sahasrabahu|Sahastrabahu]] (Kartivirya Arjuna).
Sasaram and the [[Kaimur Range|Kaimur range]] contain waterfalls, lakes, rivers and picturesque locations as described by the [[Ain-i-Akbari|Ain-I-Akbari]]. Over 200 waterfalls emerge during the rainy season. Dharohar - Karamchat Waterfall, Geetaghat Heaven Holy Waterfall, Panari Ghat/Gaurav Waterfalls, Manjharkund, Dhuvan Kund, Sitakund, Kashish, Mahadev Khoh & Tutla Bhavani Waterfalls are among the most famous. Telhar Kund, Karkat Garh, Mundeshwari Waterfall, Bansi Khoh, Netua Kund, and Chandradhari Waterfalls in the nearby Kaimur range are also well known .
Sasaram and the [[Kaimur Range]] contain waterfalls, lakes, rivers and picturesque locations as described by the [[Ain-i-Akbari|Ain-I-Akbari]]. Over 200 waterfalls emerge during the rainy season.
Modern Sasaram city covers the largest sub-metropolitan area of Bihar. It has many famous religious and historical spots to visit such as Shershah tomb, Rohtasgarh fort, Indrapuri Dam, Karamchat Dam Shergarh fort, Kandhar fort, Sacred Tarachandi Shaktipith, Bhaluni dham, Mahadev Khoh, Chaurasan temple, Gupta Dham, Tutla Bhawani temple, Pilot Baba Dham, Godaila Pahad Temple, Anicat Dam, and the Eco park.
Modern Sasaram city covers the largest sub-metropolitan area of Bihar. Its attractions to visit include the [[Tomb of Sher Shah Suri]] (included in [[UNESCO]] World Heritage Centre – ''Tentative list''),<ref>{{cite web |title=Sites along the Uttarapath, Badshahi Sadak, Sadak-e-Azam, Grand Trunk Road |url=https://whc.unesco.org/en/tentativelists/6056/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180117131142/https://whc.unesco.org/en/tentativelists/6056/ |archive-date=17 January 2018 |access-date=16 January 2018 |website=UNESCO World Heritage Centre}}</ref> [[Tomb of Hasan Khan Suri]], [[Rohtas Fort, India|Rohtasgarh Fort]], [[Shergarh Fort]], [[Manjhar Kund]], Kashish waterfall, Karmchat Dam, Salim khan makbara, Tutla Bhawani Mandir, Narayni Devi Mandir, [[Dhua Kund]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=5 BEST Places to Visit in Sasaram - UPDATED 2023 (with Photos & Reviews) |url=https://www.tripadvisor.in/Attractions-g1985450-Activities-Sasaram_Rohtas_District_Bihar.html |access-date=28 November 2023 |website=Tripadvisor |language=en}}</ref>
Sasaram city is located in the middle of its other sub-towns like Nokha & Kudra which has a large number of agriculture based industries, and the city is also emerging as an educational hub.{{citation needed|date=August 2020}} It is situated in the middle of other industrial twin towns like Dehri-on-sone, Dalmianagar, Sonnagar, Amjhor, Nokha and Banjari.
Sasaram city is located in the middle of its other sub-towns like [[Nokha, Rohtas|Nokha]] & [[Kudra]], which have a large number of agriculture based industries, and the city is also emerging as an educational hub. It is situated in the middle of other industrial twin towns like [[Dehri|Dehri-on-sone]], [[Dalmianagar]], [[Sonnagar]], Amjhor, Nokha and [[Banjari, Bihar|Banjari]].
The main posh places of the sub-metropolitan area are Raj Colony, Gauraxni, New Area, Takiya bazar, Tomb Area and Fazalganj commercial zones, Sahu Cinemax - Mall & Railway cricket stadium area. Several malls have been opened along with the best 3-4 star hotels with good medical facilities in the city and is a medical hub of old Shahabad District too.
The Sasaram city region is the administrative headquarters of Rohtas district. It was carved out from [[Shahabad district]] in 1972. This district headquarters is best known for having the highest literacy rate<ref>{{Cite web |title=[Solved] Which district of Bihar has the highest literacy rate? |url=https://testbook.com/question-answer/which-district-of-bihar-has-the-highest-literacy-r--61e583e639ed498f7368dcf9 |access-date=28 November 2023 |website=Testbook}}</ref> and highest agricultural & forest cover area of Bihar. Sasaram is also the headquarters of a [[community development block]] of the same name, with a total population of 358,283 as of 2011, making it the most populous block in Rohtas district.<ref name="Census 2011">{{cite web |title=Census of India 2011: Bihar District Census Handbook - Rohtas, Part A (Village and Town Directory) |pages=33, 41–70, 988–1059, 1191–1192|url=https://censusindia.gov.in/2011census/dchb/BiharA.html |website=Census 2011 India|access-date=29 June 2020}}</ref>
Sasaram city Region is the administrative headquarters of [[Rohtas District]], Bihar India. It became a district carved out from Shahabad District in 1972. This district headquarter is best known for having the highest literacy rate and highest agricultural & forest cover area of Bihar.{{citation needed|date=May 2019}} Sasaram is also the headquarters of a [[community development block]] of the same name, with a total population of 358,283 as of 2011, making it the most populous block in Rohtas district.<ref name="Census 2011">{{cite web |title=Census of India 2011: Bihar District Census Handbook - Rohtas, Part A (Village and Town Directory) |pages=33, 41–70, 988–1059, 1191–1192|url=https://censusindia.gov.in/2011census/dchb/BiharA.html |website=Census 2011 India|access-date=29 June 2020}}</ref>
It is known for the production of cement, fertilizers, stone chips, and for the quarrying industry and also Sasaram district is popularly known as the "bowl of rice".
Major languages spoken in this region are [[Bhojpuri language|Bhojpuri]], [[Hindi]], English and [[Urdu]]; religions of the population include [[Hinduism]], [[Islam]], [[Buddhism]], [[Christianity]], [[Sikhism]], and [[Jainism]].
Major languages spoken in this region are [[Bhojpuri]], [[Hindi]], English and [[Urdu]]; religions include [[Hinduism]], [[Islam]], [[Buddhism]], [[Christianity]], [[Sikhism]], and [[Jainism]].
==History==
==History==
During the [[Vedic period|Vedic age]], Sasaram was a part of the ancient [[Kāsī (kingdom)|Kashi kingdom]]. Sasaram's name derives from ''Sahastrarama'', meaning "one thousand groves". Sasaram was once also named '''Shah Sarai''' (meaning "Place of the King"), as it is the birthplace of the [[Afghanistan|Afghan]] king [[Sher Shah Suri]], who ruled over [[Delhi]], much of northern India, present-day Pakistan, and eastern Afghanistan for five years as the [[Sur Empire]], after defeating the [[Mughal Emperor]] [[Humayun]]. Many of Sher Shah Suri's governmental practices were adopted by the Mughals and later the British Raj, including taxation, administration, and the building of a paved road from [[Kabul]] to [[Bengal]], also called the [[Grand Trunk Road]].
During the Vedic age, Sasaram was a part of the ancient Kashi kingdom. Sasaram name is originated from the Sahastrarama, meaning a thousand groves. Sasaram was once also named Shah Serai (meaning "Place of King") as it is the birthplace of the [[Afghanistan|Afghan]] king [[Sher Shah Suri]], who ruled over [[Delhi]], much of northern India, what is now Pakistan, and eastern Afghanistan for five years, after defeating the [[Mughal Emperor]] [[Humayun]]. Many of Sher Shah Suri's governmental practices were adopted by the Mughals and the British Raj including taxation, administration, and the building of a paved road from Kabul to Bengal, also called the [[Grand Trunk Road]].
Sher Shah Suri's {{convert|122|ft|adj=on}} [[sandstone|red sandstone]] [[Tomb of Sher Shah Suri|tomb]], built in the [[Mughal architecture|Indo-Afghan style]], stands in the middle of an artificial lake in Sasaram. It borrows heavily from the [[Lodi dynasty|Lodhi]] style, and was once covered in blue and yellow glazed tiles, indicating an Iranian influence. The massive free-standing dome also has an aesthetic aspect of the [[Buddhism|Buddhist]] [[stupa]] style of the [[Maurya Empire|Mauryan]] period. The tomb of Sher Shah's father, Hasan Khan Suri, is also at Sasaram, and stands in the middle of a green field at Sherganj, which is known as Sukha Rauza. About a kilometre to the north west of Sher Shah's tomb lies the incomplete and dilapidated tomb of his son and successor, [[Islam Shah Suri]].<ref>{{cite web|last1=Sanatani|first1=Rohit Priyadarshi|title=The Tomb of Salim Shah Suri (Islam Shah): The glory that never was.|url=http://thespeakingarch.com/islam_shah_tomb/|website=The Speaking Arch|access-date=27 March 2015|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150402144031/http://thespeakingarch.com/islam_shah_tomb/|archive-date=2 April 2015}}</ref> Sasaram also has a ''Baulia'', a pool used by the emperor's consorts for bathing.
Sher Shah Suri's {{convert|122|ft}} [[sandstone|red sandstone]] tomb, built in the [[Mughal architecture|Indo-Afghan style]] stands in the middle of an artificial lake in Sasaram. It borrows heavily from the [[Lodi dynasty|Lodhi]] style, and was once covered in blue and yellow glazed tiles indicating an Iranian influence. The massive free standing dome also has an aesthetic aspect of the [[Buddhism|Buddhist]] stupa style of the [[Maurya Empire|Mauryan]] period. The tomb of Sher Shah's father [[Hasan Khan Suri]] is also at Sasaram, and stands in the middle of a green field at Sherganj, which is known as Sukha Rauza. About a kilometer to the north west of Sher Shah's tomb lies the incomplete and dilapidated tomb of his son and successor, Islam Shah Suri.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Sanatani|first1=Rohit Priyadarshi|title=The Tomb of Salim Shah Suri (Islam Shah): The glory that never was.|url=http://thespeakingarch.com/islam_shah_tomb/|website=The Speaking Arch|access-date=27 March 2015|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150402144031/http://thespeakingarch.com/islam_shah_tomb/|archive-date=2 April 2015}}</ref> Sasaram also has a ''Baulia'', a pool used by the emperor's consorts for bathing.
The fort of Sher Shah Suri at [[Rohtasgarh]] is in Sasaram. This fort has a history dating back to the 7th century CE. It was built by Raja [[Harishchandra]], known for his truthfulness in the name of his son [[Rohitashva|Rohitashwa]]. It houses the Churasan temple, [[Ganesh]] temple, Diwan-i-Khas, Diwan-e-Aam, and various other structures dating back to different centuries. The fort also served as the headquarters of [[Raja Man Singh]] during his reign as the governor of Bihar and Bengal under the regime of [[Akbar]]. The Rohtas Fort in Bihar should not be confused with [[Rohtas Fort|another fort of the same name]], near [[Jhelum]], [[Punjab, Pakistan|Punjab]], in present-day [[Pakistan]]. The Rohtas Fort in Sasaram was also built by Sher Shah Suri, during the period when [[Humayun]] was exiled from Hindustan.
The fort of Sher Shah Suri at [[Rohtasgarh]] is in Sasaram. This fort has a history dating back to the 7th century AD. It was built by Raja [[Harishchandra]], known for his truthfulness in the name of his son [[Rohitashva|Rohitashwa]]. It houses the [[Churasan]] temple, [[Ganesh]] temple, diwan-e khas, diwan-e-aam, and various other structures dating back to different centuries. The fort also served as the headquarters of [[Raja Man Singh]] during his reign as the governor of Bihar and Bengal under the regime of [[Akbar]]. The Rohtaas fort in Bihar should not be confused with another fort of the same name, near [[Jhelum]], [[Punjab, Pakistan|Punjab]], in what is now Pakistan. The Rohtaas fort in Sasaram was also built by Sher Shah Suri, during the period when [[Humayun]] was exiled from Hindustan.
There is a [[Maa Tara Chandi Temple|temple of Goddess Tarachandi]], two miles to the south, and an inscription of Pratap Dhawal on the rock close to the temple of Chandi Devi.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Shilpa |date=7 December 2018 |title=Maa Tara Chandi Temple, Bihar |url=https://www.bharattemples.com/maa-tara-chandi-temple-bihar/ |access-date=28 November 2023 |website=Bharat Temples |language=en-US}}</ref> Hindus in large number assemble to worship the goddess. [[Dhua Kund]], a notable waterfall, is located about {{cvt|15|km}} from the city.
There is a temple of Goddess Tarachandi, two miles to the south, and an inscription of Pratap Dhawal on the rock close to the temple of Chandi Devi. Hindus in large number assemble to worship the goddess. Dhuwan Kund, located about {{cvt|36|km}}.{{citation needed|date=May 2016}}
Rohtas, south of Sasaram, is known to have been the residence of one Satyawadi Raja Harischandra, named for his son, [[Rohitashva|Rohitashwa]].
There are several monuments near Sasaram, the headquarter of Rohtas district, including Akbarpur, Deomarkandey, Rohtas Garh, Shergarh, TaraChandi, Dhuwan Kund, Gupta Dham, Bhaluni Dham, Historical Gurudwara and Tombs of Chandan Shaheed, Hasan Khan Sur, Sher Shah, Salim Sah and Alawal Khan.
Rohtas, south of Sasaram, is known to have been the residence of one Satyawadi Raja Harischandra, named for his son, Rohitashwa.
===Minor Rock Edict of Ashoka===
===Minor Rock Edict of Ashoka===
Sasaram is also famous for an inscription by [[Ashoka]] (one of the thirteen [[Minor Rock Edicts]]), situated in a small cave of Kaimur hill, near Chandan Shaheed.
Sasaram is also famous for an inscription by [[Ashoka]] (one of the thirteen [[Minor Rock Edicts]]), situated in a small cave of Kaimur hill, near Chandan Shaheed.
The edict is located near the top of the terminal spur of the [[Kimur Range]] near Sasaram.<ref>[http://www.bl.uk/onlinegallery/onlineex/apac/photocoll/v/019pho000001003u00476000.html BLO]</ref> There is the Minor rock edict #1 only<ref name="Chak">India: An Archaeological History: Palaeolithic Beginnings to Early Historic ... by Dilip K. Chakrabarty [https://books.google.com/books?id=wPQtDwAAQBAJ&pg=PT395 p.395]</ref> Ashoka famously mentions pre-existing stone pillars in the Edict: ''"...And where there are stone pillars here in my dominion, there also cause it to be engraved."''. {{Coord|24.94138|84.03833|display=inline}}
The edict is located near the top of the terminal spur of the [[Kimur Range]] near Sasaram.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.bl.uk/onlinegallery/onlineex/apac/photocoll/v/019pho000001003u00476000.html|title=BLO|access-date=25 September 2018|archive-date=29 October 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211029161630/http://www.bl.uk/onlinegallery/onlineex/apac/photocoll/v/019pho000001003u00476000.html|url-status=dead}}</ref> There is the Minor rock edict #1 only.<ref name="Chak">India: An Archaeological History: Palaeolithic Beginnings to Early Historic ... by Dilip K. Chakrabarty [https://books.google.com/books?id=wPQtDwAAQBAJ&pg=PT395 p.395]</ref> Ashoka famously mentions pre-existing stone pillars in the Edict: ''"...And where there are stone pillars here in my dominion, there also cause it to be engraved."''. <!-- 24°56′29″N 84°02′18″E / 24.94138°N 84.03833°E -->
{{Blockquote
{{Blockquote
|[[File:Sahasram_Edict_of_Ashoka.jpg|thumb|400px|The Sasaram Edict ([[Minor Rock Edict]] No.1 only).]]
|[[File:Sahasram_Edict_of_Ashoka.jpg|thumb|400px|The Sasaram Edict ([[Minor Rock Edict]] No.1 only).]]
# Devanampriya [speaks] thus.
# Devanampriya [speaks] thus.
# .................. years since I am a lay-worshipper (upasaka).
# .................. years since I am a lay-worshipper ([[upasaka]]).
# But (I had) not been very zealous.
# But (I had) not been very zealous.
# A year and somewhat more (has passed) since ............
# A year and somewhat more (has passed) since ............
Line 194:
Line 181:
File:Sahasram_rock_inscription.jpg|Transcription of the Edict.
File:Sahasram_rock_inscription.jpg|Transcription of the Edict.
File:Ashoka Brahmi numerals 256.jpg|The number "256" towards the end of the Edict.
File:Ashoka Brahmi numerals 256.jpg|The number "256" towards the end of the Edict.
</gallery>
</gallery>[[File:Mausoleum of Sher Shah 5.jpg|thumb|250 px|Mausoleum of Sher Shah]]
[[File:Hasan Shah Tomb 4.jpg|thumb|250 px|[[Tomb of Hasan Khan Suri]]]]
==Tomb of Sher Shah Suri==
[[File:Islam Khan Tomb, Sasaram.jpg|thumb|250 px|Tomb of [[Islam Shah Suri]]]]
{{Main|Tomb of Sher Shah Suri}}
Coordinates: {{Coord|24|56|N|84|01|E|}}
[[File:Mausoleum of Sher Shah 5.jpg|thumb|250 px|Mausoleum of Sher Shah]]
[[File:Hasan Shah Tomb 4.jpg|thumb|250 px|Mausoleum of Hasan Shah]]
This site is included in UNESCO World Heritage Centre – ''Tentative list''.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://whc.unesco.org/en/tentativelists/6056/ |title=Sites along the Uttarapath, Badshahi Sadak, Sadak-e-Azam, Grand Trunk Road |website=UNESCO World Heritage Centre |access-date=16 January 2018 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180117131142/https://whc.unesco.org/en/tentativelists/6056/ |archive-date=17 January 2018 }}</ref>
Tomb of Sher Shah, built in the middle of the town, is one of the noblest specimens of Pathan architecture in India, is an imposing structure of stone, standing in the middle of a fine tank, and was built towards the middle of sixteenth century. Its height from the floor to the apex of the dome is {{convert|101|feet}} and its total height above the water is over {{convert|150|feet}} feet. The octagon forming the tomb has an interior diameter of {{convert|75|feet}} feet and an exterior diameter of {{convert|104|feet}} feet. The tomb is the second highest in India which attracts tourists. The tomb of Shershah Suri at Sasaram is an imposing structure of stone standing in the middle of a fine tank and rising from a large stone terrace. This terrace rests obliquely on a platform with a flight of steps leading to the water's edge. The upper terrace is enclosed by a battlemented parapet wall with octagonal domed chambers at four corners, two small projecting pillared balconies on each of its four sides and pierced with a doorway in the east forms the only approach to the tomb. In the middle of the upper terrace stands the building of the mausoleum on a low octagonal plinth. The building consists of a very large octagonal chamber surrounded by a wide verandah on al the four sides. Internally, the verandah is covered by a series of 24 small domes, each supported on four arches but as the roof is a pillared cupola adorned by panels of white glazed tiles now much discoloured. The tomb chamber has three lofty arches on each of the eight sides. They rise {{convert|22|feet}} higher than the verandah roof and support the magnificent and lofty dome which is one of the largest domes in India. Surrounding the main dome are eight pillared cupolas on the corners of the octagon of the chamber walls. The interior of the tomb is sufficiently well ventilated and lighted through large windows on the top portion of the walls fitted with stone jalis in varying patterns. The jambs and spandrils of the arch of the mihrab on the western wall were once profusely adorned with verses from the Quran and inscriptions, with glazed tiles of various colours arranged in geometrical patterns and with floral carvings in stone enclosed in enamel borders. Much of this decoration has vanished already. Traces of similar decoration in enamel or glazed tile works are also to be scen on the interior of the dome, the walls and the cupolas on the outside. In a small arched recess above the mihrab on the outside wall is an inscription in two lines recording the completion of the tomb by his son and successor Salim or Islam Shah, some three months after the death of Sher Shah who died in A.H. 952 (A.D.1545). It is second largest dome of India.
The tomb of Hasan Khan Sur, father of Sher Shah is also located in the town. This tomb is also known as Sukha Roza.
==Geography==
==Geography==
Sasaram is located at {{Coord|24.95|N|84.03|E|}} and its area is 15 km^2.<ref>[http://www.fallingrain.com/world/IN/34/Sasaram.html Falling Rain Genomics, Inc - Sasaram] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080311123338/http://www.fallingrain.com/world/IN/34/Sasaram.html |date=2008-03-11 }}</ref> It has an average elevation of {{convert|200|m}}.
Sasaram is located at {{Coord|24.95|N|84.03|E|}} and occupies an area of about {{Convert|15|km2|sqmi|abbr=on}}.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.fallingrain.com/world/IN/34/Sasaram.html|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20080311123338/http://www.fallingrain.com/world/IN/34/Sasaram.html|url-status=dead|title=Maps, Weather, and Airports for Sasaram, India|archivedate=11 March 2008|website=www.fallingrain.com}}</ref> It has an average elevation of {{convert|110|m}}. Plateau region of [[Kaimur Range]] near Sasaram have average elevation of {{convert|210|m}}.
===Climate===
===Climate===
As Sasaram is surrounded by hills from two sides, its climate is seasonable. The climate is characterized by relatively high temperatures and evenly distributed precipitation throughout the year. The [[Köppen Climate Classification]] sub-type for this climate is "[[Humid subtropical climate|Cfa]]" (Humid Subtropical Climate).<ref>[http://www.weatherbase.com/weather/weather-summary.php3?s=595661&cityname=Sasaram%2C+Bihar%2C+India&units=metric Climate Summary for Sasaram, India] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180117070401/http://www.weatherbase.com/weather/weather-summary.php3?s=595661&cityname=Sasaram%2C+Bihar%2C+India&units=metric |date=2018-01-17 }}</ref>
Sasaram is surrounded by hills from two sides, its climate is seasonable. The climate is characterized by relatively high temperatures and evenly distributed precipitation throughout the year. The [[Köppen Climate Classification]] sub-type for this climate is "[[Humid subtropical climate|Cfa]]" (humid subtropical).<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.weatherbase.com/weather/weather-summary.php3?s=595661&cityname=Sasaram,+Bihar,+India&units=metric|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20180117070401/http://www.weatherbase.com/weather/weather-summary.php3?s=595661&cityname=Sasaram%2C+Bihar%2C+India&units=metric|url-status=dead|title=Sasaram, India Köppen Climate Classification (Weatherbase)|archivedate=17 January 2018|website=Weatherbase}}</ref>
{{Weather box
{{Weather box
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|title = Sasaram, India — Monthly Weather Averages Summary
|title = Sasaram, India — Monthly Weather Averages Summary
As of 2020 India census, Sasaram had a population of 351,408 but in urban agglomeration. Males constitute 52% of the population and females 48%. Sasaram has an average literacy rate of 80.26%, higher than the national average of 74%; male literacy is 85%, and female literacy is 75%. In Sasaram, 13% of the population is under 6 years of age.<ref name="Census">[http://www.census2011.co.in/census/city/178-sasaram.html Sasaram City Census 2020 data] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160405015041/http://www.census2011.co.in/census/city/178-sasaram.html |date=2016-04-05 }}</ref>
According to the [[2011 census of India|2011 census]], Sasaram had a population of 351,408 but in urban agglomeration. Males constitute 52% of the population and females 48%. Sasaram has an average literacy rate of 80.26%, higher than the national average of 74%; male literacy is 85%, and female literacy is 75%. In Sasaram, 13% of the population is under 6 years of age.<ref name="Census">{{Cite web|url=https://www.census2011.co.in/census/city/178-sasaram.html|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20160405015041/http://www.census2011.co.in/census/city/178-sasaram.html|url-status=dead|title=Sasaram City Population 2023 | Literacy and Hindu Muslim Population|archivedate=5 April 2016|website=www.census2011.co.in}}</ref>{{Verify source|date=December 2023}}
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Sasaram is the 10th most populous city in bihar.
Sasaram is the [[List of cities in Bihar by population|8th most populous city]] in Bihar.
{{See also|List of cities in Bihar}}
{{See also|List of cities in Bihar}}
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===Lok Sabha constituency===
===Lok Sabha constituency===
[[Sasaram (Lok Sabha constituency)]] is one of the 40 Lok Sabha (parliamentary) constituencies in Bihar state in eastern India.
[[Sasaram (Lok Sabha constituency)|Sasaram]] is one of the 40 Lok Sabha (parliamentary) [[List of constituencies of the Lok Sabha|constituencies]] in Bihar. [[Manoj Kumar (Sasaram politician)]] serves as a [[Member of Parliament, Lok Sabha|Member of Parliament]] (MP) representing Sasaram in the [[Lok Sabha]].<ref>{{Cite web | title=Election Commission of India | url=https://results.eci.gov.in/PcResultGenJune2024/candidateswise-S0434.htm | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240604113426/https://results.eci.gov.in/PcResultGenJune2024/candidateswise-S0434.htm | access-date=2025-01-17 | archive-date=2024-06-04}}</ref>
===Vidhan Sabha constituency===
===Vidhan Sabha constituency===
[[Sasaram (Vidhan Sabha constituency)]] is one of 243 legislative assembly of Bihar. It is comes under Sasaram lok sabha constituency.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.elections.in/bihar/parliamentary-constituencies/sasaram.html |title=Sasaram (Bihar) Lok Sabha Election Results 2019, 2014, 2009 -Sasaram Parliamentary Constituency, Winning MP and Party Name |access-date=2017-12-31 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171231051814/http://www.elections.in/bihar/parliamentary-constituencies/sasaram.html |archive-date=2017-12-31 }}</ref>
[[Sasaram (Vidhan Sabha constituency)|Sasaram]] is one of 243 constituencies of the [[Legislative Assembly of Bihar]]. It comes under Sasaram Lok Sabha constituency.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.elections.in/bihar/parliamentary-constituencies/sasaram.html |title=Sasaram (Bihar) Lok Sabha Election Results 2019, 2014, 2009 -Sasaram Parliamentary Constituency, Winning MP and Party Name |access-date=31 December 2017 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171231051814/http://www.elections.in/bihar/parliamentary-constituencies/sasaram.html |archive-date=31 December 2017 }}</ref>
==Economy==
==Economy==
The closure of the industries of the [[Dalmia Group]] at [[Dalmianagar]] resulted in widespread unemployment. Sasaram's economy is mainly driven by [[agriculture]] and related industries like [[rice polishing]]. The canal irrigation system is also very prominent in this area. Because of the fertile land around the town it is a local trading center for food grains, agricultural products, and agricultural equipment. The region is known as Dhan Ka Katora, meaning "a bowl of food grains". The rice grown near Sasaram is sold in the markets of Kolkata and New Delhi. The only significant industry is rock [[quarry]]ing.
The closure of the industries of the [[Dalmia Group]] at [[Dalmianagar]] resulted in widespread unemployment. Sasaram's economy is mainly driven by [[agriculture]] and related industries like [[rice polishing]]. The canal irrigation system is also very prominent in this area. Because of the fertile land around the town, it is a local trading center for food grains, agricultural products, and agricultural equipment, the region is known as Dhan Ka Katora, meaning "a bowl of food grains". The rice grown near Sasaram is sold in the markets of [[Kolkata]] and [[New Delhi]]. The only significant industry is rock [[quarry]]ing.
==Transportation==
==Transportation==
===Railway===
===Railway===
[[File:Railway Station Sasaram.jpg|thumb|[[Sasaram Junction railway station|Sasaram station]]]]
[[File:Railway Station Sasaram.jpg|thumb|[[Sasaram Junction railway station|Sasaram station]]]]
[[Sasaram Junction railway station|Sasaram]] has a big size railway junction. The station belongs to A class category with 8 platforms. The station has to be developed as the world-class which is located at the centre of the city on the Grand Trunk Road. Sasaram's other stations are Shivsagar, kumahu, Nokha, Karwandiya, Pahleja and Dehri on Sone.
[[Sasaram Junction railway station|Sasaram Junction station]], a major railway station, serves Sasaram. Sasaram's other stations are Shivsagar, Kumahu, Nokha, Karwandiya, Pahleja and [[Dehri-on-Sone railway station|Dehri on Sone]].
[[Sasaram Junction railway station|Sasaram station]] is 101 Kilometers away from [[Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Nagar Junction railway station|Pt. Deen Dayal Upadhaya]] station (less than 1.5 hours) and about {{cvt|120|km}}, or two hours journey from [[Varanasi]], and {{cvt|101|km}} from [[Gaya, India|Gaya]] station. [[Gaya Junction railway station|Gaya station]] is {{cvt|20|km}} away [[Bodh Gaya]], the most sacred place in [[Buddhism]]. Trains run from Sasaram to Kolkata, Ara, Ranchi, Patna, New Delhi, and [[Bikramganj]], [[Bombay]].
Sasaram station is {{Convert|101|km|mi|abbr=on}} away from [[Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Nagar Junction railway station|Pt. Deen Dayal Upadhaya]] station (less than 1.5 hours) and about {{cvt|120|km}}, or two hours journey from [[Varanasi]], and {{cvt|101|km}} from [[Gaya, India|Gaya]] station. [[Gaya Junction railway station|Gaya station]] is {{cvt|20|km}} away from [[Bodh Gaya]], the most sacred place in [[Buddhism]]. Trains run from Sasaram to [[Kolkata]], [[Arrah]], [[Ranchi]], [[Patna]], [[New Delhi]], and [[Bikramganj]].
The trains which stop in Sasaram include [[Ajmer–Sealdah Express|Ajmer seldah]], [[Kalka Mail]], [[Purushottam Express]], [[Mahabodhi Express]], Ranchi Garib Rath, [[Kolkata Mail]], [[Howrah Jodhpur Express|Jodhpur Howrah Express]], [[Chambal Express]], [[Shipra Express]], Chennai Egmore Express, [[Nandan Kanan Express]], [[Neelachal Express|Neelanchal Express]] and [[Poorva Express]], [[Jallianwalla Bagh Express|Jallianwalabagh Express]], [[Durgiana Express|Durigana Express]], [[Garbha Express]], Dikshabhoomi Express and New Delhi- Bhagalpur Express, etc.
The trains which stop in Sasaram include [[Ajmer–Sealdah Express|Ajmer Seldah]], [[Kalka Mail]], [[Purushottam Express]], [[Mahabodhi Express]], Ranchi Garib Rath, [[Kolkata Mail]], [[Howrah Jodhpur Express|Jodhpur Howrah Express]], [[Chambal Express]], [[Shipra Express]], Chennai Egmore Express, [[Nandan Kanan Express]], [[Neelachal Express|Neelanchal Express]] and [[Poorva Express]], [[Jallianwalla Bagh Express|Jallianwalabagh Express]], [[Durgiana Express|Durigana Express]], [[Garbha Express]], Dikshabhoomi Express and New Delhi-Bhagalpur Express, etc.
A direct weekly AC train had been started from Sasaram to [[Anand Vihar Terminal]] in July 2011 (22409/22410 - [[Gaya Anand Vihar Garib Rath Express|Sasaram - Anand Vihar Garib Rath Express]]). However, now this AC train runs between [[Gaya, India|Gaya]] and [[Anand Vihar Terminal]], still stopping at Sasaram Junction.
===Airport===
===Airport===
Sasaram has also a small and old airport called Suara Airport. A new airport is proposed to be established in near future.{{when|date=August 2020}}<ref>{{Cite web | url=https://m.dailyhunt.in/news/india/hindi/live+bihar-epaper-livbihar/sasaram+me+banega+airport+viman+seva+ke+lie+paryatan+mantralay+ne+bihar+sarakar+se+manga+prastav-newsid-88304901 |title = सासाराम में बनेगा AIRPORT, विमान सेवा के लिए पर्यटन मंत्रालय ने बिहार सरकार से मांगा प्रस्ताव - Live Bihar}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.rohtasdistrict.com/rohtas-district-airport-in-ssm-soon/|title=सासाराम में एयरपोर्ट बनने की जगी उम्मीद, विमान सेवा के लिए पर्यटन मंत्रालय ने बिहार सरकार से मांगा प्रस्ताव|date=21 May 2018}}</ref>
Suara Airfield, a small and old airport in Sasaram, is currently non-operational. The closest major airports are in [[Gaya (India)|Gaya, Bihar]] (98 kilometers away), [[Patna|Patna, Bihar]] (157 kilometers away), and [[Varanasi|Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh]] (120 kilometers away)
==Education==
==Education==
Sasaram is the sixth most literate city in Bihar, with Rohtas being the most literate district in Bihar.<ref>[http://www.sawansasaram.ml/ SAWAN SASARAM]</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Census |first=India |date=2022-08-16 |title=literacy rate in Bihar (2022), including the literacy rate of all districts in Bihar. |url=https://www.indiacensus.net/states/bihar/literacy |access-date=2022-08-16 |website=IndiaCensus.net}}</ref>
Sasaram is the sixth most literate city in Bihar, with Rohtas being the most literate district in Bihar.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.sawansasaram.ml/ |title=SAWAN SASARAM |access-date=30 April 2017 |archive-date=8 July 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170708021812/http://sawansasaram.ml/ |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Census |first=India |date=16 August 2022 |title=literacy rate in Bihar (2022), including the literacy rate of all districts in Bihar. |url=https://www.indiacensus.net/states/bihar/literacy |access-date=16 August 2022 |website=IndiaCensus.net}}</ref>
There are four government colleges, although many students prefer to go to more developed cities for quality education, such as [[Bangalore]], [[New Delhi]], [[Pune]], [[Patna]], [[Varanasi]] and [[Pondicherry|Puducherry]], for higher education. A new engineering college has been set up in the region.
There are four government colleges, although many students prefer to go to more developed cities for quality education, such as [[Bangalore]], [[New Delhi]], [[Pune]], [[Patna]], [[Varanasi]] and [[Puducherry (city)|Puducherry]], for higher education. A new engineering college has been set up in the region.
This Place is also known for preparation of competitive exams at [[Sasaram Junction railway station|Sasaram Railway junction]].<ref>{{Cite web | url=https://www.telegraphindia.com/bihar/station-students-get-a-platform/cid/1380982 | title=Station students get a platform}}</ref> According to earlier natives of this city, there was not proper electrification of city around 2007 - 2008 which hampered the studies of students seeking for competitive exams. [[Indian Railways]] had 24 hours power supply at Sasaram junction. This led a small group of students to study there at night under electric lights.
This place is also known for preparation of competitive exams at [[Sasaram Junction railway station|Sasaram Railway junction]].<ref>{{Cite web | url=https://www.telegraphindia.com/bihar/station-students-get-a-platform/cid/1380982 | title=Station students get a platform}}</ref> According to earlier natives of this city, there was not proper electrification of city around 2007 to 2008, which hampered the studies of students seeking for competitive exams. [[Indian Railways]] had a 24-hour power supply at Sasaram junction, leading a small group of students to study there at night under electric lights.
* [[Narayan Medical College and Hospital]]<ref>{{cite web |url=http://narayanmedicalcollege.org |title=Welcome to Narayan Medical College & Hospital! |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110726110150/http://narayanmedicalcollege.org/ |archive-date=2011-07-26}}</ref>
* [[Narayan Medical College and Hospital]]<ref>{{cite web |url=http://narayanmedicalcollege.org |title=Welcome to Narayan Medical College & Hospital! |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110726110150/http://narayanmedicalcollege.org/ |archive-date=26 July 2011}}</ref>
* Mahatma Phule Medical College and Hospital, Muradabad, Sasaram<ref>{{Cite web | url=https://www.bhaskar.com/bihar/sasaram/news/mahatma-phule-medical-college-and-hospital-is-continuously-engaged-in-public-service-091032-4315911.html | title=जनमानस की सेवा में निरंतर लगा हुआ है महात्मा फुले मेडिकल कॉलेज एवं हॉस्पिटल| date=11 April 2019}}</ref>
* Mahatma Phule Medical College and Hospital, Muradabad, Sasaram<ref>{{Cite web | url=https://www.bhaskar.com/bihar/sasaram/news/mahatma-phule-medical-college-and-hospital-is-continuously-engaged-in-public-service-091032-4315911.html | title=जनमानस की सेवा में निरंतर लगा हुआ है महात्मा फुले मेडिकल कॉलेज एवं हॉस्पिटल| date=11 April 2019}}</ref>
* Sher Shah Suri Medical Hospital & Training college, Sasaram
* Sher Shah Suri Medical Hospital & Training college, Sasaram
===Engineering colleges===
* [[Shershah Engineering College]]
===Government colleges===
===Government colleges===
* Shanti Prasad Jain College, Sasaram [a facilitation branch of [[Veer Kunwar Singh University]], [[Arrah]] ],<ref>https://www.spjainsasaram.co.in {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180517223736/https://www.spjainsasaram.co.in/ |date=2018-05-17 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://vksu.ac.in/new/ |title=Veer Kunwar Singh University – वीर कुँवर सिंह विश्वविद्यालय, आरा बिहार – 802301 |date=31 March 2018 |access-date=2018-05-17 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180518054420/http://vksu.ac.in/new/ |archive-date=2018-05-18 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.telegraphindia.com/states/bihar/varsity-branch-boon-for-pupils-229995 |title=Varsity branch boon for pupils |access-date=2018-05-23 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180605082939/https://www.telegraphindia.com/states/bihar/varsity-branch-boon-for-pupils-229995 |archive-date=2018-06-05 }}</ref>
* Shanti Prasad Jain College, Sasaram [a facilitation branch of [[Veer Kunwar Singh University]], [[Arrah]]]<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.spjainsasaram.co.in|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20180517223736/https://www.spjainsasaram.co.in/|url-status=dead |title=S P Jain College, Sasaram|archivedate=May 17, 2018|website=www.spjainsasaram.co.in}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://vksu.ac.in/new/ |title=Veer Kunwar Singh University – वीर कुँवर सिंह विश्वविद्यालय, आरा बिहार – 802301 |date=31 March 2018 |access-date=17 May 2018 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180518054420/http://vksu.ac.in/new/ |archive-date=18 May 2018 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.telegraphindia.com/states/bihar/varsity-branch-boon-for-pupils-229995 |title=Varsity branch boon for pupils |access-date=23 May 2018 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180605082939/https://www.telegraphindia.com/states/bihar/varsity-branch-boon-for-pupils-229995 |archive-date=5 June 2018 }}</ref>
* Shri Shankar College, Sasaram<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://sscollegesasaram.org/|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20180325210330/http://sscollegesasaram.org/|url-status=dead|title=sscollegesasaram.org|date=19 October 2023|archivedate=25 March 2018}}</ref>
* Sher Shah College, Sasaram<ref>{{Cite web | url=https://shershahcollege.co.in/ | title=Sher Shah College, Sasaram – [ A constituent unit of Veer Kunwar Singh University, Ara, Bihar ]}}</ref>
* Sher Shah College, Sasaram<ref>{{Cite web | url=https://shershahcollege.co.in/ | title=Sher Shah College, Sasaram – [ A constituent unit of Veer Kunwar Singh University, Ara, Bihar ]}}</ref>
* Rohtas Mahila College, Sasaram<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.rmcsasaram.org/index.action |title=Brief Introduction |access-date=8 November 2019 |archive-date=8 November 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191108151748/http://www.rmcsasaram.org/index.action |url-status=dead }}</ref>
===Other colleges===
===Other colleges===
* Hari Narain Singh Institute of Teachers Education (HNSITE)<ref>http://www.hnsite.org {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180325043831/http://hnsite.org/ |date=2018-03-25 }}</ref>
* Hari Narain Singh Institute of Teachers Education (HNSITE)<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://hnsite.org/|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20180325043831/http://hnsite.org/|url-status=dead|title=Hnsite – Hnsite.net No.1 Portal Provide basic study materials For Class 5th to 12th|archivedate=25 March 2018}}</ref>
* Sri Shankar Rajkiya Inter College<ref>[https://biharstory.in/2012/02/veer-kunwar-singh-university-vksu.html Veer Kunwar Singh University (VKSU)] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180605082939/https://biharstory.in/2012/02/veer-kunwar-singh-university-vksu.html |date=2018-06-05 }}</ref>
* Sri Shankar Rajkiya Inter College<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://biharstory.in/2012/02/veer-kunwar-singh-university-vksu.html|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20180605082939/https://biharstory.in/2012/02/veer-kunwar-singh-university-vksu.html|url-status=dead|title=Veer Kunwar Singh University (VKSU)|archivedate=5 June 2018}}</ref>
* Government Polytechnic, Dehri, Sasaram
* Government Polytechnic, Dehri, Sasaram
* Jagannath Mishra Law College, Sasaram
* Jagannath Mishra Law College, Sasaram
===Major schools===
===Major schools===
* St.Michael's Academy School, Chandravanshi Nagar, Fazalganj, Sasaram<ref>{{Cite web | url=http://www.stma.in/ |title = St.Michael's Academy Sasaram}}</ref>
* PM SHRI Kendriya Vidyalaya, Sasaram<ref>{{Cite web |title=पीएम श्री केन्द्रीय विद्यालय सासाराम {{!}} भारत |url=https://sasaram.kvs.ac.in/ |access-date=2025-05-14 |language=hi-IN}}</ref>
* St. Michael's Academy School, Chandravanshi Nagar, Fazalganj, Sasaram<ref>{{Cite web | url=http://www.stma.in/ |title = St.Michael's Academy Sasaram}}</ref>
* M. P. High School, Adda Road, Sasaram
* M. P. High School, Adda Road, Sasaram
* Rama Rani Jain Girls High School, Choukhandi Road, Sasaram
* Rama Rani Jain Girls High School, Choukhandi Road, Sasaram
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* D.A.V. Public school, Admapur, Sasaram<ref>{{Cite web | url=http://davsasaram.com/ |title = Dav Public School}}</ref>
* D.A.V. Public school, Admapur, Sasaram<ref>{{Cite web | url=http://davsasaram.com/ |title = Dav Public School}}</ref>
* St. Paul's School, Sasaram<ref>{{Cite web | url=http://www.stpaulsschool.co.in/ |title = St Paul's School Sasaram}}</ref>
* St. Paul's School, Sasaram<ref>{{Cite web | url=http://www.stpaulsschool.co.in/ |title = St Paul's School Sasaram}}</ref>
* St. Xavier's School, Jagdev Nagar, Nooran Ganj, Sasaram<ref>{{Cite web | url=https://schools.org.in/rohtas/10320129103/st-xavier's-school.html |title = ST XAVIer's SCHOOL - Ward No-34, District Rohtas (Bihar)}}</ref>
* St. Xavier's School, Jagdev Nagar, Nooran Ganj, Sasaram<ref>{{Cite web | url=https://schools.org.in/rohtas/10320129103/st-xavier's-school.html |title = St. Xavier's School - Ward No-34, District Rohtas (Bihar)}}</ref>
* G.S. Residential School, Malwar Road, Sasaram<ref>{{Cite web | url=http://gsrschool.com/index.html | title=G.S Residential School | access-date=8 November 2019 | archive-date=11 May 2020 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200511024127/http://gsrschool.com/index.html | url-status=dead }}</ref>
* St. Jeelani's Public School, Shahjuma, Sasaram<ref>{{Cite web | url=https://schools.org.in/rohtas/10320127302/saint-jeelani-s-school.html | title=SAINT JEELANI S SCHOOL - Ward No-16, District Rohtas (Bihar)}}</ref>
* St. Jeelani's Public School, Shahjuma, Sasaram<ref>{{Cite web | url=https://schools.org.in/rohtas/10320127302/saint-jeelani-s-school.html | title=Saint Jeelani S School - Ward No-16, District Rohtas (Bihar)}}</ref>
* Pragya Niketan Public School, Falzalganj, Sasaram<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.pnpschool.edu.in/ |title=Pragya Niketan Public School Sasaram |access-date=26 September 2020 |archive-date=26 January 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200126060241/http://www.pnpschool.edu.in/ |url-status=dead }}</ref>
* Pragya Niketan Public School, Falzalganj, Sasaram<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.pnpschool.edu.in/ |title=Pragya Niketan Public School Sasaram |access-date=26 September 2020 |archive-date=26 January 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200126060241/http://www.pnpschool.edu.in/ |url-status=dead }}</ref>
* Buddha Mission School, Nooranganj, Bauliya Road, Sasaram Rohtas Bihar
* Buddha Mission School, Nooranganj, Bauliya Road, Sasaram Rohtas Bihar
* ABR Foundation School, Baijla More, Sasaram<ref>{{Cite web |title=ABR FOUNDATION SCHOOL – Sasaram (Rohtas) Bihar |url=https://www.abrfoundationschool.org/ |access-date=2025-05-14 |language=en-US}}</ref>
== Villages ==
== Villages ==
Besides the city of Sasaram itself, there are 171 villages in Sasaram block, of which 144 are inhabited and 27 are uninhabited. The total rural population of Sasaram block is 210,875, in 34,336 households.<ref name="Census 2011"/>
Besides the city of Sasaram itself, there are 171 villages in Sasaram block, of which 144 are inhabited and 27 are uninhabited. As of 2011, the total rural population of Sasaram block is 210,875, in 34,336 households.<ref name="Census 2011"/>
The city served as the capital of the Sur dynasty during Sher Shah Suri's rule over India in the 16th century, and was residence place sub capital of epic monarch Sahastrabahu (Kartivirya Arjuna).
Sasaram and the Kaimur Range contain waterfalls, lakes, rivers and picturesque locations as described by the Ain-I-Akbari. Over 200 waterfalls emerge during the rainy season.
Sasaram city is located in the middle of its other sub-towns like Nokha & Kudra, which have a large number of agriculture based industries, and the city is also emerging as an educational hub. It is situated in the middle of other industrial twin towns like Dehri-on-sone, Dalmianagar, Sonnagar, Amjhor, Nokha and Banjari.
The Sasaram city region is the administrative headquarters of Rohtas district. It was carved out from Shahabad district in 1972. This district headquarters is best known for having the highest literacy rate[5] and highest agricultural & forest cover area of Bihar. Sasaram is also the headquarters of a community development block of the same name, with a total population of 358,283 as of 2011, making it the most populous block in Rohtas district.[6]
During the Vedic age, Sasaram was a part of the ancient Kashi kingdom. Sasaram's name derives from Sahastrarama, meaning "one thousand groves". Sasaram was once also named Shah Sarai (meaning "Place of the King"), as it is the birthplace of the Afghan king Sher Shah Suri, who ruled over Delhi, much of northern India, present-day Pakistan, and eastern Afghanistan for five years as the Sur Empire, after defeating the Mughal EmperorHumayun. Many of Sher Shah Suri's governmental practices were adopted by the Mughals and later the British Raj, including taxation, administration, and the building of a paved road from Kabul to Bengal, also called the Grand Trunk Road.
Sher Shah Suri's 122-foot (37 m) red sandstonetomb, built in the Indo-Afghan style, stands in the middle of an artificial lake in Sasaram. It borrows heavily from the Lodhi style, and was once covered in blue and yellow glazed tiles, indicating an Iranian influence. The massive free-standing dome also has an aesthetic aspect of the Buddhiststupa style of the Mauryan period. The tomb of Sher Shah's father, Hasan Khan Suri, is also at Sasaram, and stands in the middle of a green field at Sherganj, which is known as Sukha Rauza. About a kilometre to the north west of Sher Shah's tomb lies the incomplete and dilapidated tomb of his son and successor, Islam Shah Suri.[7] Sasaram also has a Baulia, a pool used by the emperor's consorts for bathing.
The fort of Sher Shah Suri at Rohtasgarh is in Sasaram. This fort has a history dating back to the 7th century CE. It was built by Raja Harishchandra, known for his truthfulness in the name of his son Rohitashwa. It houses the Churasan temple, Ganesh temple, Diwan-i-Khas, Diwan-e-Aam, and various other structures dating back to different centuries. The fort also served as the headquarters of Raja Man Singh during his reign as the governor of Bihar and Bengal under the regime of Akbar. The Rohtas Fort in Bihar should not be confused with another fort of the same name, near Jhelum, Punjab, in present-day Pakistan. The Rohtas Fort in Sasaram was also built by Sher Shah Suri, during the period when Humayun was exiled from Hindustan.
There is a temple of Goddess Tarachandi, two miles to the south, and an inscription of Pratap Dhawal on the rock close to the temple of Chandi Devi.[8] Hindus in large number assemble to worship the goddess. Dhua Kund, a notable waterfall, is located about 15 km (9.3 mi) from the city.
Rohtas, south of Sasaram, is known to have been the residence of one Satyawadi Raja Harischandra, named for his son, Rohitashwa.
Sasaram is also famous for an inscription by Ashoka (one of the thirteen Minor Rock Edicts), situated in a small cave of Kaimur hill, near Chandan Shaheed.
The edict is located near the top of the terminal spur of the Kimur Range near Sasaram.[9] There is the Minor rock edict #1 only.[10] Ashoka famously mentions pre-existing stone pillars in the Edict: "...And where there are stone pillars here in my dominion, there also cause it to be engraved.".
.................. years since I am a lay-worshipper (upasaka).
But (I had) not been very zealous.
A year and somewhat more (has passed) since ............
And men in Jambudvipa, being during that time unmingled with the gods, have (now) been made (by me) mingled with the gods.
[For] this is the fruit [of zeal].
...........cannot be reached by (persons of) high rank alone, (but) even a lowly (person) is able to attain even the great heaven if he is zealous.
Now, for the following purpose (has) this proclamation (been issued), (that) both the lowly and the exalted may be zealous, and (that) even (my) borderers may know (it), and (that this) zeal may be of long duration,
And this matter will (be made by me to) progress, and will (be made to) progress even considerably; it will (be made to) progress to one and a half, to at least one and a half.
And this proclamation (was issued by me) on tour.
Two hundred and fifty-six nights (had then been) spent on tour, — (in figures) 256.
And cause ye this matter to be engraved on rocks.
And where there are stone pillars here (in my dominions), there also cause (it) to be engraved.
— Sasaram Edict (Translated in Inscriptions of Asoka. New Edition by E. Hultzsch)[11]
The Edict is located on top of the terminal spur of the Kimur range.
Sasaram is located at 24°57′N84°02′E / 24.95°N 84.03°E / 24.95; 84.03 and occupies an area of about 15 km2 (5.8 sq mi).[14] It has an average elevation of 110 metres (360 ft). Plateau region of Kaimur Range near Sasaram have average elevation of 210 metres (690 ft).
Sasaram is surrounded by hills from two sides, its climate is seasonable. The climate is characterized by relatively high temperatures and evenly distributed precipitation throughout the year. The Köppen Climate Classification sub-type for this climate is "Cfa" (humid subtropical).[15]
According to the 2011 census, Sasaram had a population of 351,408 but in urban agglomeration. Males constitute 52% of the population and females 48%. Sasaram has an average literacy rate of 80.26%, higher than the national average of 74%; male literacy is 85%, and female literacy is 75%. In Sasaram, 13% of the population is under 6 years of age.[17][verification needed]
SAHAJ Vasudha Kendra, the first "Common Service Centre", or "eKiosk", in Rohtas District was inaugurated in Jamuhar village on 15 August 2008. The centre is currently planning to start a block information Centre, e-district plan, and Sawan Sasaram.
The closure of the industries of the Dalmia Group at Dalmianagar resulted in widespread unemployment. Sasaram's economy is mainly driven by agriculture and related industries like rice polishing. The canal irrigation system is also very prominent in this area. Because of the fertile land around the town, it is a local trading center for food grains, agricultural products, and agricultural equipment, the region is known as Dhan Ka Katora, meaning "a bowl of food grains". The rice grown near Sasaram is sold in the markets of Kolkata and New Delhi. The only significant industry is rock quarrying.
Sasaram Junction station, a major railway station, serves Sasaram. Sasaram's other stations are Shivsagar, Kumahu, Nokha, Karwandiya, Pahleja and Dehri on Sone.
Suara Airfield, a small and old airport in Sasaram, is currently non-operational. The closest major airports are in Gaya, Bihar (98 kilometers away), Patna, Bihar (157 kilometers away), and Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh (120 kilometers away)
Sasaram is the sixth most literate city in Bihar, with Rohtas being the most literate district in Bihar.[20][21]
There are four government colleges, although many students prefer to go to more developed cities for quality education, such as Bangalore, New Delhi, Pune, Patna, Varanasi and Puducherry, for higher education. A new engineering college has been set up in the region.
This place is also known for preparation of competitive exams at Sasaram Railway junction.[22] According to earlier natives of this city, there was not proper electrification of city around 2007 to 2008, which hampered the studies of students seeking for competitive exams. Indian Railways had a 24-hour power supply at Sasaram junction, leading a small group of students to study there at night under electric lights.
Besides the city of Sasaram itself, there are 171 villages in Sasaram block, of which 144 are inhabited and 27 are uninhabited. As of 2011, the total rural population of Sasaram block is 210,875, in 34,336 households.[6]
India
Bihar
The Edict is located on top of the terminal spur of the Kimur range.![The name Jambudīpasi for "India" (Brahmi script) in the Sahasram Minor Rock Edict of Ashoka, circa 250 BCE.[12][13]](https://storage.googleapis.com/smartcommons/commons/0/08/Jambudiipasi.jpg)
The name Jambudīpasi for "India" (Brahmi script) in the Sahasram Minor Rock Edict of Ashoka, circa 250 BCE.[12][13]
Transcription of the Edict.
The number "256" towards the end of the Edict.
![The name Jambudīpasi for "India" (Brahmi script) in the Sahasram Minor Rock Edict of Ashoka, circa 250 BCE.[12][13]](/wiki/File:Jambudiipasi.jpg)
