Destination Features

Very few women have gained a place of prominence in India’s history. The state of Madhya Pradesh might be the exception to this. The city of Indore is testament to one woman’s vision of a beautifully planned city.  

Indore was bestowed upon Malhar Rao Halkar by the Maratha Peshwa Baji Rao in 1743 AD. It was his daughter-in-law, Rani Ahilyabai Holkar who laid the foundation for the modern city of Indore. Though widowed in her teens, the Rani accepted the responsibility of the city and is revered as its patron architect even today. The Holkar dynasty ruled over Indore for 220 years when it was finally merged into the Indian Republic in 1948.

The city gets its name from Lord Indreshwar. A temple dedicated to the deity was constructed in the 18^th century at the confluence of the two rivulets Saraswati and Khan. The temple still stands today at Sangamnath and is a popular place of worship.  

Traditionally, the city gained its importance from the fact that it was a major halting point on the Malwa Plateau trade routes. The Holkars were great patrons of the performing arts and Indore would host famous music and dance festivals. Many poems were composed praising the Shab-e-Malwa - the cooling, caressing night breeze of the Malwa Plateau. The Rangapanchami Music Festival carries on this artistic legacy.

Modern-day Indore is now the commercial capital of the state of Madhya Pradesh. Even now it is one of the biggest garment trading districts in the country. Due to the numerous automobile plants located here, it has also gained the nickname of the Detroit of India.

Indore is the home of the famous Chanderi and Maheshwari sarees. Once here, do not forget to visit the famous Sarafa Street. It comes alive in the night, after the commercial activity of the day is over. Little dhabas and stalls then sprout all over the market, offering delicious chaats and mithais. Try the locally famous sabudana ki khichadi, samosas, kachoris and pohas. You will never forget the taste.