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Limbdi
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Limbdi is a taluka in Surendranagar district in the Indian state of Gujarat.[1]
Key Information
History
[edit]The area formed a part of the 9-gun salute state during the British Raj, when it was governed by members of a Jhala dynasty.[2]
Limbdi Satyagrah
[edit] |
During the Satyagraha, the people of Limbdi formed a "Praja Mandal" on 24 December 1938, which caused friction between the king and the people of Limbdi. In 1939, a conference was held by "Praja Mandal", which the king did not like and he created a huge uproar at the conference. Many people were wounded during this incident. Many people felt disheartened and started migrating from Limbdi to other cities.
In 1940, after death of Sir Dolatsingh, Sir Digvijay became the ruler. He could rule for only four months, as he died shortly after his coronation. The last ruler of Limbdi was his son, Sir Chhatrapalsingh, from 1941 to 1948. After independence, Limbdi state was merged with Union of India.
Education
[edit]Lady Wellingdon Girls School, now Municipal School number 3, was established in Limbdi on 1 March 1859, at a time when India had few girls' schools even in urban areas.[citation needed] It is now a co-educational school.
Geography
[edit]Limbdi is located at 22°34′N 71°48′E / 22.57°N 71.8°E.[3] It has an average elevation of 53 metres (173 feet).
Limbdi is located on NH-8,101 km from Ahmedabad.
Demographics
[edit]As of 2001[update] India census,[4] Limbdi had a population of 40,067. Males constitute 52% of the population and females 48%. Limbdi has an average literacy rate of 70%, higher than the national average of 59.5%: male literacy is 78%, and female literacy is 62%. In Limbdi, 12% of the population is under 6 years of age.[5]
Points of Interest
[edit]- BAPS Swaminarayan mandir, Limbdi [6]
- Raj Rajeshwar Dham (Tridev temple), Jakhan is located nearby, easterly. The temple complex is built on a hundred-acre piece of land, the initial acreage donated by the people (Lalubha Madarsinh zala, Andubha zala, Jitubha zala) of Jakhan Village. This place is the headquarters of Life mission society which has a global network. The centre offers many facilities.[7]
- Ramakrishna Mission, Limbdi[8]
- Shree Kabir Ashram, Limbdi, and Kabir temple, located little far from the ashram[9]
- Shri Jagdish Ashram, Limbdi [of Jagannath tirtha swamiji][10]
References
[edit]- ^ "Limbadi".
- ^ McLeod, John (1999). Sovereignty, Power, Control: Politics in the States of Western India, 1916-1947. BRILL. pp. 8–9. ISBN 9789004113435.
- ^ "redirect to /world/IN/09/Limbdi.html". www.fallingrain.com.
- ^ "Census of India 2001: Data from the 2001 Census, including cities, villages and towns (Provisional)". Census Commission of India. Archived from the original on 16 June 2004. Retrieved 1 November 2008.
- ^ "Limbdi Pincode". citypincode.in. Retrieved 19 May 2014.
- ^ "2010limbdimandir ZIP file".
- ^ "lifemission.org". www.lifemission.org.
- ^ "Ramakrishna Mission, Limbdi. – Atmano Mokshartham Jagaddhitaya Cha".
- ^ "The web site is under construction". Archived from the original on 28 December 2018. Retrieved 12 July 2022.
- ^ "શ્રી જગન્નાથ તીર્થ સ્વામીજી આશ્રમ-લીંબડી | Home". Archived from the original on 21 December 2018. Retrieved 12 July 2022.
External links
[edit]
Limbdi
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Geography and Environment
Location and Physical Features
Limbdi is a town and taluka headquarters in Surendranagar district, Gujarat, India, located at approximately 22°34′N latitude and 71°49′E longitude.[8] The district, which encompasses Limbdi, lies between 22°00′ and 23°05′N latitude and 69°45′ and 72°15′E longitude.[1] The town sits at an average elevation of 50 meters above sea level, with surrounding terrain varying from 20 to 65 meters.[9] The physical landscape around Limbdi features flat to undulating topography with occasional low mounds and ridges, characteristic of the central region of Surendranagar district.[1] Soils in the Limbdi taluka predominantly consist of medium black types that are poorly drained and saline, supporting limited agricultural productivity without irrigation.[1][10] The Bhogavo River, a major right tributary of the Sabarmati River, flows in proximity to Limbdi, with the town situated near its northern banks; this river system influences local hydrology and occasional flooding risks.[11] Smaller tributaries, such as the Limbdi Bhogavo, contribute to the watershed in the area.[11] The region lacks significant perennial water bodies, relying on seasonal streams and groundwater amid semi-arid conditions.[1]Climate and Natural Resources
Limbdi, situated in Surendranagar district, experiences a semi-arid climate typical of inland Gujarat, with hot summers, mild winters, and a pronounced monsoon season. Average annual rainfall measures approximately 550 mm, concentrated between June and September, while the remainder of the year remains largely dry.[12] Summer temperatures frequently exceed 40°C, peaking at around 42°C during May, whereas winter lows dip to about 10°C in January.[12][13] The region sees minimal precipitation outside the monsoon, with February averaging just 0.2 wet days.[13] Natural resources in and around Limbdi include mineral deposits such as bauxite and high alumina clay, supporting mining operations in the Limbdi and adjacent Mevasa areas.[14] The district as a whole hosts additional minerals like lignite, celestite, and bentonite, contributing to extractive industries. Predominant black cotton soils, rich in montmorillonite clay, favor rain-fed and irrigated agriculture focused on cotton, groundnut, and millet, though nutrient deficiencies in nitrogen, iron, and zinc necessitate supplementation.[15] Groundwater extraction supports farming amid variable recharge, with the area's dynamic resources estimated at part of Gujarat's broader 24.58 billion cubic meters extractable yield. Limited surface water from seasonal rivers underscores reliance on irrigation infrastructure.[16]Historical Development
Origins and Early Settlement
The Jhala Rajput clan, to which the rulers of Limbdi belonged, traces its origins to Harpal Devji, who established the dynasty's presence in Patdi, Saurashtra, around 1093 AD following migrations from Sindh.[17][18] Harpal Devji, also known as Harpaldev Kesar Makwana, had multiple sons, including Manghuji (listed as the second or nineteenth son), who received the chorasis (territorial grants) of Jambu and Kundni, laying the foundation for the Limbdi lineage.[2][19] This branch separated from the main Jhala line, which ruled states like Dhrangadhra, and focused on consolidating control over villages in the Saurashtra peninsula amid regional conflicts with Muslim invaders and rival clans.[2][20] Manghuji's grandson, Dhaval, marked a pivotal early expansion in 1194 AD when, displaced from Jambu by Sultan Qutb ud-din Aibak's forces, he retreated to Veraval Patan, acquired coastal villages through marriage alliances, and established Dhamlej as the initial capital after reconquering territories.[2] Subsequent generations, including Dhaval's son Kaluji, shifted the capital to Kundni for strategic reasons, alternating between Kundni, Jambu, and Jasdan over six generations to evade devastation from invasions and internal feuds.[2] These movements reflect the clan's adaptive settlement patterns in response to 12th-15th century warfare, including losses to Vaghela and Sarvaiya clans under Maharana Khetoji II, followed by recoveries aided by shepherds and alliances with rulers like Sultan Mahmud Begada.[2] The formal princely state of Limbdi emerged around 1500 AD, governed by primogeniture, though the ruling family's territorial base predated this by centuries through incremental village conquests and dowry acquisitions.[3][21] Early settlements in the Limbdi area thus centered on fortified villages under Jhala control, with no verified archaeological evidence of pre-medieval urban centers specific to the site, unlike broader Saurashtra's Harappan-era sites elsewhere.[22] The shift of the capital to Limbdi itself occurred in the 18th century, solidifying the town's role as the political and administrative hub for the Jhala rulers.[2]Princely State Period
Limbdi emerged as a princely state around 1500, ruled by a branch of the Jhala Rajput dynasty originating from Harapal Devji of Patdi, with early capitals at Jambu, Kundni, and later Dhamlej established in 1194 after displacement by Sultan Qutb ud-din Aibak.[2] The state, classified as second-class, covered approximately 344 square miles and maintained a military force of 35 cavalry, 174 infantry, and 28 guns by 1892.[23][3] Succession adhered to primogeniture, and in the 18th century, Harbhamji I shifted the capital to Limbdi while Harisinhji (1786–1825) administered effectively before the state entered British protection via the 1807 Treaty of Bassein, becoming part of the Kathiawar Agency.[3][2] Under British paramountcy, Limbdi received a 9-gun salute, with rulers contributing to regional stability.[23] Jaswantsinhji Fatehsinhji (r. 1862–1907), succeeding as a minor and assuming full powers in 1877, implemented reforms including a municipal council, law courts, irrigation projects, and schools; he was the first Indian prince to tour Europe, Canada, and the United States, attended Queen Victoria's Golden Jubilee in 1887 and the 1903 Delhi Durbar, and received the title "His Highness" in 1887 along with KCIE honors.[24] His successor, Daulatsinhji Jaswantsinhji (r. 1907–1940), advanced infrastructure and education, supported British efforts in World War I—earning a temporary 11-gun salute in 1918—and represented India at events like the 1901 opening of Australia's Parliament.[24][3] The state's later rulers included Digvijaysinhji (r. 1940–1941), who participated in the 1932 Indian Round Table Conference, and infant successor Chatrashailyasinhji (r. 1941–1947), under regency.[24] Limbdi acceded to the Dominion of India in 1947 without the final ruler assuming full powers, merging into the United State of Kathiawar (later Saurashtra) in 1948.[2]Satyagraha and Transition to Independence
The Praja Mandal branch in Limbdi was established on 24 December 1938 to advocate for farmers' rights amid grievances over autocratic governance and economic exploitation in the princely state.[25] This organization, aligned with broader Prajamandal movements across Saurashtra's princely states, demanded political reforms, responsible government, and relief from oppressive taxation and feudal practices.[26] Agitation intensified into satyagraha campaigns from 1938 to 1939, featuring non-violent protests, boycotts of state institutions, and an "exodus" where participants migrated en masse to neighboring British India territories as a form of civil disobedience, drawing attention to the ruler's alleged lawlessness.[27] Mahatma Gandhi referenced the Limbdi exodus in his writings, commending the hijratis (migrants) for their persistence despite hardships, though the campaign highlighted internal divisions, with merchants leading the push while many farmers supported the ruler.[28] The satyagraha ultimately faltered due to these class-based fissures and lack of unified peasant backing, failing to dislodge the administration but contributing to regional pressure for democratic changes in princely states.[28][29] As the Indian independence movement culminated, Limbdi acceded to the Dominion of India in 1947 under its young ruler, Chhatrasinhji Jasvantsinhji, who did not assume full powers due to the timing of partition and transfer of authority.[2] The state merged into the United State of Kathiawar (later renamed Saurashtra State) on 15 February 1948, integrating with other former princely territories in the region and paving the way for administrative unification under the Indian Union.[30] This accession aligned with Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's efforts to consolidate princely states, avoiding prolonged autonomy amid post-1947 geopolitical pressures.[21]Post-Independence Growth
Following the accession of the princely state of Limbdi to the Dominion of India on August 15, 1947, the territory was integrated into the United State of Saurashtra (also known as Kathiawar) in 1948 through the merger of 222 princely states and estates in the region.[2] This union facilitated centralized administration and development initiatives under the Government of India, marking the end of monarchical rule by the Jhala dynasty, whose last incumbent, Chhatrapalsinhji, governed until the merger. The States Reorganisation Act of 1956 incorporated Saurashtra into Bombay State, with Limbdi designated as a taluka headquarters within the Surendranagar subdivision.[31] Upon Gujarat's formation as a separate state on May 1, 1960, Limbdi remained in Surendranagar district, benefiting from state-level policies promoting agricultural cooperatives and rural electrification that spurred incremental infrastructure improvements, such as expanded road networks connecting to national highways. Economic growth in Limbdi post-1947 aligned with Gujarat's broader trajectory of industrialization and agricultural modernization, though the locality retained a primary focus on cotton farming, groundnut processing, and small-scale manufacturing like textile ginning mills, which expanded modestly due to improved irrigation from state canals post-1960s. The establishment of cooperative institutions, building on pre-independence efforts such as the Limbdi Cooperative Bank founded in the early 20th century, supported credit access for farmers, contributing to increased cultivated land and crop yields amid Gujarat's green revolution influences by the 1970s.[32] Urban expansion was evident in the transition to municipal governance, with Limbdi Nagarpalika overseeing public works like water supply enhancements and sanitation, though data on specific municipal establishment dates remains tied to district-level reorganizations in the 1950s.[33] Demographic expansion reflected these changes, with Limbdi's urban population rising steadily; the 2011 census recorded 42,769 residents in the city proper, up from lower bases in the princely era (state population approximately 80,000 in 1943), driven by rural-urban migration and natural increase amid Gujarat's overall decadal growth rates averaging 20-25% from 1951 to 2001.[34] Infrastructure advancements included rail connectivity via the Ahmedabad-Bhavnagar line, operational since the British period but extended for freight post-independence to support agro-based exports, alongside electrification reaching most households by the 1980s as part of national rural programs. These developments positioned Limbdi as a mid-tier market town, though challenges like water scarcity persisted, limiting faster industrialization compared to coastal Gujarat hubs.[35]Governance and Administration
Municipal Structure
Limbdi is administered by the Limbdi Nagarpalika, a Class B municipality established under the Gujarat Municipalities Act, 1963, which defines its composition, election processes, and responsibilities for urban local self-government.[36][37] The Nagarpalika oversees essential civic functions, including water supply, sanitation, road maintenance, public health, and urban planning within the town's jurisdiction.[38] The legislative wing comprises elected councilors representing 7 wards, with elections conducted every 5 years to ensure periodic democratic oversight.[4] These councilors form the general body, which elects a president to chair meetings and a vice-president for administrative continuity; the president holds executive authority over policy decisions and budget approvals, subject to state oversight. The number of councilors aligns with the ward structure, typically one per ward, totaling 7 members who deliberate on local issues such as infrastructure development and taxation.[37] Administratively, the Nagarpalika is headed by a Chief Officer, a state-appointed executive responsible for day-to-day operations, implementation of council resolutions, and coordination with district authorities in Surendranagar.[38] This officer manages departments covering engineering, health, finance, and revenue, with recent expansions including contract positions like City Manager for solid waste management to align with national programs such as Swachh Bharat Mission Urban 2.0.[39] The municipality's office is located at Swastik Society, Limbdi, with contact via phone at 02753-260128, facilitating public grievances and service delivery.[38]Political and Electoral History
Limbdi, as a princely state under British paramountcy, was governed by hereditary rulers of the Jhala Rajput dynasty, who held the title of Thakore Saheb and exercised autocratic authority over its approximately 344 square miles of territory, entitled to a 9-gun salute.[40] The state's administration focused on revenue collection, land tenure, and local justice, with the ruler maintaining a military force and advisory council, though real power resided with the Thakore Saheb until accession.[23] Tensions arose in the late 1930s amid the broader Indian independence movement, culminating in the establishment of the Limbdi Praja Mandal on December 24, 1938, by local activists to advocate for farmers' rights, civil liberties, and democratic reforms against the ruler's policies.[25] This organization, aligned with the All India States' Peoples' Conference, organized satyagrahas and protests, drawing involvement from national leaders including Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, who supported the movement's demands for responsible government and an end to feudal exactions; the struggle intensified friction between the populace and the palace, contributing to the erosion of princely absolutism.[41] Following India's independence, Limbdi acceded to the Dominion of India on August 15, 1947, with the young heir assuming titular headship but without full ruling powers due to the timing of partition.[2] The state merged into the United State of Saurashtra (later Saurashtra State) in 1948 as part of the political integration of princely territories, transitioning from monarchical rule to republican administration under the Indian Constitution.[42] Upon Gujarat's formation from Bombay State on May 1, 1960, Limbdi fell within Surendranagar district, with local governance vested in the Limbdi Nagarpalika (municipality), responsible for urban services, established under state municipal acts.[38] Electorally, Limbdi has been a general category seat in the Gujarat Legislative Assembly since the state's inception, encompassing the town and surrounding taluka. In the 2017 Gujarat Assembly elections, Indian National Congress candidate Kolipatel Somabhai Gandalal secured victory with a margin reflecting competitive local dynamics.[43] The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate Kiritsinh Jitubha Rana won the seat in the 2022 elections, defeating rivals amid a statewide BJP surge, with voter turnout at 61.25% and Rana receiving the plurality of votes from over 200,000 electors.[44] [45] Municipal elections for Limbdi Nagarpalika, conducted by the Gujarat State Election Commission, occur periodically; for instance, results from the October 2010 polls listed elected councilors, though detailed vote shares remain archived in official records without public controversy noted.[46] The BJP has demonstrated strength in regional panchayat elections, capturing control in Surendranagar district bodies post-2021, underscoring partisan shifts in Saurashtra's rural-urban politics.[47]Demographics and Society
Population Trends
According to the 2001 Census of India, the population of Limbdi municipality stood at 40,071 residents.[48] By the 2011 Census, this figure had increased to 42,769, reflecting a decadal growth rate of 6.73%.[48] [49] This equates to an average annual growth rate of approximately 0.65% over the decade, significantly lower than Gujarat state's overall decadal growth of 19.3% and Surendranagar district's 15.89%.[49]| Census Year | Population | Decadal Growth Rate (%) |
|---|---|---|
| 2001 | 40,071 | - |
| 2011 | 42,769 | 6.73 |
Ethnic, Religious, and Linguistic Composition
Limbdi's religious composition, based on the 2011 census data for the municipality, is dominated by Hinduism, with adherents comprising 87.6% of the population (37,465 individuals). Muslims form the largest minority at 9.12% (3,901 individuals), followed by Jains at 2.98% (1,274 individuals). Smaller communities include Christians (0.15% or 64 individuals), Sikhs (0.07% or 31 individuals), and Buddhists (0.04% or 17 individuals), with no reported followers of other religions.[4][34]| Religion | Percentage | Population (2011) |
|---|---|---|
| Hindu | 87.6% | 37,465 |
| Muslim | 9.12% | 3,901 |
| Jain | 2.98% | 1,274 |
| Christian | 0.15% | 64 |
| Sikh | 0.07% | 31 |
| Buddhist | 0.04% | 17 |