Legacy of the Holkars
Indore was planned and built by Rani Ahilyabai the brave Holkar
Queen. Situated on the banks of the rivers Saraswati and Khan this
bustling and vibrant city derives its name from the 18th century
Indreshwar Temple and is the largest in MP.It has some interesting
monuments associated with the medieval Holkar dynasty. The city is a
major textile-producing centre. Indians called Pithampur the Detroit
of India and Indore is its gateway. Its cotton textile industry is
the fourth largest in India. It is also famous for its bangles and
is a notable centre of Hindustani classical music.The older part of
town is on the western side of the railway line the newer part on
the east.
Places of attraction
Lal Bagh: In the southwest of the city surrounded by gardens is the
grand Lal Bagh Palace built 1886-1921. Once the residence of the
Maharajas it has now been converted into a museum and cultural
centre.
Chhatri Bagh: On the banks of the Khan River are seven memorials of
the Holkar Kings including that of Malhar Rao Holkar and Rani
Ahilyabai but the sanctums are locked. The largest and the most
lavishly decorated with frescoes is that of Malhar Rao Holkar I.
Kanch Mandir: On Jawahar Road is the Kanch Mandir or Seth Hukachand
Temple. Inside the Jain temple thousands of mirrors adorn the walls
floor and ceilings.Exquisitly carved Chinese glass-cut lanterns
murals depicting teachings of Jainism and the contemporary life are
its other attractions. The image of the mahavir is in plain onyx.
Gandhi Hall: The magnificent Gandhi Hall (town hall) is open to
visitors from 10 am to 5 pm daily. Exhibitions are sometimes held
here.
Bada Ganapati: At the western end of the M.G. Road this temple
contains 8 mts. high bright orange statue of Ganesh-reputed to be
the world’s largest.
In the old part of town the multistory gateway of the Rajwada looks
out onto the palm-lined main square in the crowded streets of the
Kajuri Bazaar.
Other places of interest: Include Geeta Bhavan, Rajwada, Annapurna,
Khajrana, Kasturba Gram, Bijasen Tekri and Gomatgiri.
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