Location and Boundaries
Raisen District is centrally located in the state of Madhya Pradesh. It lies between latitudes 22°47′ to 23°33′ North and longitudes 77°21′ to 78°49′ East.
The district is bordered by:
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North: Vidisha district
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West: Sehore district
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East & South-East: Sagar district
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South-East: Narsinghpur district
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South: Hoshangabad (now Narmadapuram) and Sehore districts
Raisen spans a total geographical area of 8,395 sq. km, accounting for 1.93% of Madhya Pradesh’s total area.
🏰 Origin of the Name
The name ‘Raisen’ is believed to have originated from the massive sandstone Raisen Fort situated on a hill. The term likely evolved from “Rajavasini” or “Rajasayan”, meaning the royal residence. The fort remains a symbol of the district’s historical and architectural legacy.
📜 Historical Significance
Raisen has been a vital center of administration since ancient times:
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In the 15th century, it was ruled by the Sultans of Mandu, followed by the Rajputs.
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In 1543, Sher Shah Suri captured Raisen from the Puranmal Rajputs.
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During the Mughal era, Raisen was the headquarters of a Sarkar in the Subah of Ujjain (Malwa) under Emperor Akbar.
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Later, Fiaz Mohammad Khan, the 3rd Nawab of Bhopal, took control around 1760 and was later recognized as Faujdar of Raisen by Emperor Alamgir II.
🗺️ Administrative Evolution
During Mughal rule, Khamkhera was the region’s main administrative center in Gairatganj Tehsil. Later, the base shifted to Sagonī in Begamganj Tehsil.
After India’s independence, when the Bhopal State merged into the Indian Union as a ‘C’ state, Raisen District was officially formed on 5th May 1950 with Raisen town as its headquarters. Initially comprising only seven tehsils, the district has since evolved into a significant administrative and cultural region.
🌍 Notable Highlights of Raisen District
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Home to UNESCO World Heritage Site Sanchi Stupa
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Historic Raisen Fort and Dargah of Peer Fatehullah Shah Baba
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Birthplace of rich tribal and folk traditions
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Known for Mahashivratri at Bhojpur, Sanchi Mahotsav, and Urs festivals