Bardhaman

Bardhaman (BAWR-dhoh-mahn), the administrative headquarters of Purba Bardhaman district, is the fifth largest city in West Bengal and growing fast. Since independence, it has emerged as a higher education hub. Bardhaman gets its name from Vardhamana Mahavira, the last Jain tirthankara in 6th century BC, who is said to have traversed this region. Located in the fertile plains of Bengal, it has been the target of many an invader and witnessed many battles, the most touching being the battle between Sher Afgan and Qutubuddin Aibak in 1610, to determine the fate of Meherunissa, wife of Sher Afgan, who emerged as Noor Jehan. Sher Afgan and Qutubuddin Aibak lay buried in Bardhaman. The Badhaman Raj family has played a more dynamic role in shaping the destiny of Bardhaman. Curzon Gate is an important landmark in Bardhaman and the Rajbati now houses the University of Burdwan.