Ara, also known as Arrah, is a city and municipal corporation nestled in the heart of the Bhojpur district in the Indian state of Bihar. This historical city has a rich tapestry of culture, mythology, and a storied past that dates back to ancient times.
From its association with the Ramayana and Mahabharata to the events of the Indian Rebellion of 1857, Ara stands as a testament to the resilience and cultural diversity of Bihar. In this comprehensive article, we will delve into the various facets that make Ara a unique and intriguing destination.
The name "Arrah" has deep-rooted connections with mythology. According to ancient scriptures, the word "Arrah" or "Ara" is believed to be derived from the Sanskrit word "Aranya," meaning forest.
This suggests that the region around modern Ara was once heavily forested. In Hindu mythology, sage Vishwamitra, the Guru of Rama, is said to have had his 'Ashram' in this very region. The epic Ramayana mentions that Rama killed the demon Taraka somewhere near Arrah.
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In ancient India, Ara was a part of Magadha and, during Chandragupta Maurya's rule, it became a significant region of the great Magadh empire. The archaeological site at Masarh village, near Ara, holds the Masarh lion and Ashoka Pillars, providing a glimpse into the city's ancient past.
During the 14th century, the Chero dynasty lost Western Bihar, including Ara, to the Ujjainiya Rajputs. The region saw conflicts and power shifts, with the Ujjainiyas, Cheros, and Sher Shah Suri playing crucial roles. Babur, the founder of the Mughal dynasty, camped in Ara in 1529 A.D, marking another significant chapter in the city's mediaeval history.
The Battle of Buxar in 1764 brought Ara under British control. However, it was during the Indian Rebellion of 1857 that Ara gained prominence. The city became a centre of revolt, with a group of British civilians and Indian soldiers besieged in the Little House at Arrah by the forces of Veer Kunwar Singh. The siege lasted eight days, showcasing the resilience of the defenders.
In modern times, Ara has evolved into a bustling city, the headquarters of the Bhojpur district. The city witnessed a royal visit in 1911 when King George V prayed at the Holy Saviour Church. Despite facing challenges like the Plague between 1901 and 1911, Ara continued to grow and adapt to the changing times.
Ara is strategically located at the confluence of the Ganges and Son rivers. The Ganges forms its northern boundary, while the Son river separates the Bhojpuri and Magahi-speaking regions of Bihar.
The fertile land, with low forest cover, makes Ara an ideal area for cultivation, particularly of crops like rice, mango, and mahua. The climate in Ara is characterised by relatively high temperatures and evenly distributed precipitation throughout the year. The city experiences a humid subtropical climate, with distinct wet and dry seasons.
As per the 2011 census, the population of the Arrah Municipal Corporation was 261,099, with a sex ratio of 874. The literacy rate was 83.41 percent. Bhojpuri is the predominant language spoken in Ara, followed by Hindi and Urdu. The city reflects a harmonious blend of diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds.
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Ara serves as the headquarters of the Bhojpur district, and its municipal corporation is divided into 45 wards. The city's administration is led by an IAS or state Civil service officer, serving as the Sub Divisional Magistrate (SDM). The Arrah Tehsil is further divided into eight blocks, each headed by a Block Development Officer (BDO). The police force in Ara is led by a Superintendent of Police, an IPS officer, ensuring the city's safety and security.
Ara boasts an industrial area near Koilwar and is rich in natural resources, particularly the sand of the Son river. The alluvial deposits of the Ganges river make the region suitable for brick making. In recent years, the city has mined substantial amounts of sand, generating significant revenue for the local economy.
Ara's cultural landscape is influenced by its native language, Bhojpuri. The city celebrates various festivals, including Holi, Durga Puja, Chhath, Diwali, Eid, and Christmas.
The local cuisine includes traditional Bhojpuri dishes like Litti-Chokha, Makuni, Dal Pitthi, and a variety of sweets like Khurma and Thekua. The cityscape is adorned with historical landmarks such as the Aranya Devi Temple, Maula Bagh Mosque, Koilwar Bridge, and the Arrah–Chhapra Bridge. These landmarks not only contribute to the city's aesthetic appeal but also hold historical and religious significance.
Ara is not just a city; it is a treasure trove of historical and religious sites. Some of the must-visit places include:
Ara has a robust educational infrastructure with schools affiliated to the Central Board of Secondary Education and the Bihar School Examination Board. Veer Kunwar Singh University is a prominent institution in the city. Higher education is facilitated by institutions like Har Prasad Das Jain College, Maharaja College, and Jagjiwan College. The city witnessed a positive development with the establishment of Government Engineering College, Bhojpur, under the Department of Science and Technology, Bihar.
Cricket is the most popular sport in Ara, with Veer Kunwar Singh Stadium serving as a venue for various cricket, football, and hockey tournaments. The city encourages a sports culture with grounds like Ramna Maidan, Maharaja College ground, Airport Ground, and Jain College Ground hosting diverse sporting events.
Ara has found its way into popular culture through various mediums:
Ara stands as a city that seamlessly blends its ancient roots with the demands of the modern world. From its mythological significance to its pivotal role in historical events, Ara has witnessed the ebb and flow of time, emerging as a vibrant and culturally rich destination.
Whether one is drawn to its historical landmarks, religious sites, educational institutions, or sports culture, Ara offers a diverse and immersive experience for residents and visitors alike. As the city continues to evolve, it remains a hidden gem in Bihar, waiting to be explored and appreciated for its unique charm and historical significance.
Ara has a rich history dating back to ancient times, with connections to the Ramayana, Mahabharata, and the Indian Rebellion of 1857. It has witnessed the rule of Mauryas, Mughals, and British, showcasing its resilience and cultural diversity.
The name Arrah is believed to be derived from the Sanskrit word Aranya
Ara came under British control after the Battle of Buxar in 1764. However, its prominence increased during the Indian Rebellion of 1857 when it became a center of revolt, with a notable siege lasting eight days, showcasing the city's historical significance.
As per the 2011 census, the population of the Arrah Municipal Corporation was 261,099, with a sex ratio of 874. The city is linguistically diverse, with Bhojpuri being the predominant language, followed by Hindi and Urdu.
Ara offers a range of historical and religious sites, including the Aranya Devi Temple, Maula Bagh Mosque, Koilwar Bridge, Ramna Maidan, Arrah–Chhapra Bridge, Maharaja College, Masarh, Arrah House, and Holy Saviour Church.