Eran

Eran is an ancient historical place in Sagar district in Madhya Pradesh, India. It can be called to be the oldest historical town of Sagar district in Madhya Pradesh. In earlier coins and inscriptions its name appears as Airikiṇa. From an early inscription at Sanchi we know that the residents of Eran had made some gifts to the famous Stupa situated at Sanchi. Eran is derived from Eraka. The word erakā probably refers to a kind of grass which grows at Eran in abundance. [1]
Eran is the site of first reported monument of Sati dated 510 AD in India. [2]The archaeological site nearby Eran has revealed several Gupta inscriptions. The village of Eran has a most interesting collection of archaeological relics. There is a fort in rulings attributed to the Dangis, who formerly dominated over this region. The site had a number of Vishnu shrines but nothing now remains except some of the lower courses of masonry, four standing columns with there architrave and some beams and part of door ways. The Principal statue is a colossal Varaha about 10 feet high. The excavation conducted by the Department of Archeaology of the University of Sagar have yielded relics similar to those found at Maheshwar and Tripuri showing that Eran formed the Northern most limit of the Chalcolithic culture in Madhya Pradesh. [3] Excavations were carried out at Eran in 1960-61 to 1964-65; and 1987-88. [4] Excavations at Eran have revealed about the earliest fort built by mud ramparts. Prof. K.D. Bajpaihas has studied coins from Eran excavations and has done a chronological analysis.[5] He has given a note on ‘Svabhoganagara’ in the Eran inscription of Samudragupta. [6]

Bounded by lush green hills and serene lakes, Chanderi is the famous town of Madhya Pradesh known for its rich history and scenic landscapes. It is located on a hill, southwest of the Betwa River. The city finds mention in the great epics of Mahabharata. Chanderi is dotted with many historical monuments built during the reign of Bundela Rajputs and Malwa Sultans. Bordered closely to two vibrant states, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh, the town presents an amazing blend of varied culture and tradition. Chanderi is renowned the world over for its dazzling hand woven Chanderi sarees. These light silk and cotton sarees are embroidered with patterns and motifs taken from nature and the magnificent temples of Chanderi. Fairs and Festival - Fair of Jageshwari Devi Best Time to Visit - October to MarchWhat to buy – Chanderi Sarees, Brocade, Muslin, handlooms, bamboo handicrafts, Metal works, and Pottery works.Pilgrimage AttractionsKoshak Mahal Impressed with the remarkable architecture of Mandu, Mohammed khilji ordered to build the Koshak Mahal in 1445 AD. The original plan of this Khilji ruler was to construct the seven-storey palace but only two could be completed during his lifetime. The intricate designs and motfis of the palace display the perfect blend of Rajput and Mughal style of art and architecture.Jama Masjid Built by the Malwa Sultans, Jami Masjid has imposing domes and long arcades. It is possibly the biggest mosque of the erstwhile Central India.Badal Mahal Gateway, Badal Mahal is a gateway without a mahal built in the 15th century. It was constructed by the King of Malwa, Sultan Mehmood Shah Khilji to commemorate a significant victory. Garnished with exquisite carvings and motifs, the gate was used in welcoming and giving honors to the kings and other prominent state guests.Shahazadi ka RauzaBuilt by the Malwa Sultans in the memory of a princess, the building has intriguing arches and geometrical designs. The exterior of the Shahazadi ka Rauza is decorated with ornate arches and a band of geometrical designs.Parmeshwar TalThe Placid Parmeshwar Tal rests half a mile to the north-west of Chanderi town. The credit goes to the Bundela Rajput Kings for the construction of this impressive tank. An ancient temple and many memorials built in the honor of the royal Rajput kings are also present here.Battisi BaowdiBuilt in 1485 by Sultan Ghyasuddin Shah, the place derives its name from a flight of thirty-two steps.Thruvanji The quaint town of Thruvanji is located in the South West of Chanderi. The village is noted for its Jain temples that belong to early medieval period. Kati GhatiJimam Khan built Kati Ghati Gate in 1480 AD by cutting the solid rocks.Chanderi FortSituated on a lofty hill, Chanderi Fort was constructed by the Muslim rulers of Chanderi. The main gate of this vast Mughal fort is known as the “Khooni Darwaza”.Buddhi ChanderiBuddhi (Old) Chanderi is located at a distance of 19 kms from present Chanderi town. The town rests on the banks of river Urvashi. Buddhi Chanderi also finds its reference in Puranas as Chaidnagar. Legend goes that when Raja Nala left Damayanti asleep in the forests of Narwar she moved through dense Jungles and reached Chaidnagar protecting her self from wild animals. The place also has number of Jain temples that date back to 9th and 10th century.How to Get ThereBy Air: The nearest airports are at Bhopal (258 km) and Gwalior (259 km).By Rail: Lalitpur (36 km) and Jhansi (124 km) on the Delhi-Chennai and Delhi-Mumbai main line are the closest railheads. Ashok Nagar (46 km) and Mungaoli (38 km) also serve Chanderi.By Road: Chanderi is connected by regular bus services with Gwalior, Indore, Guna, Shivpuri, Ashok Nagar, Jhansi, Lalitpur, Tikamgarh, Vidisha, Sanchi and Bhopal.