Anantapur

Anantapur is a city in the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh. It is the administrative headquarters of Anantapur district and a major urban center in the Rayalaseema region. Geographically, the city lies on the Deccan Plateau and experiences a hot, semi-arid climate with most rainfall during the southwest monsoon; the district is known to be drought-prone and relies heavily on groundwater for agriculture and municipal needs.

The local economy is predominantly agrarian. Dryland farming is common, with crops such as groundnut, millet, and pulses forming the base of farming activity. There is also light industry and small-scale commerce in the city, supported by road and rail connectivity to other parts of the state and country.

Culturally and historically, Anantapur district hosts several notable sites. The nearby Lepakshi Temple at Hindupur is a celebrated example of Vijayanagara architecture and is known for its hanging pillar. Penukonda Fort, a medieval-Vijayanagara fortress, represents the region’s historic importance. The town of Puttaparthi in the district is home to the ashram established by Sathya Sai Baba, drawing visitors from across India and beyond.

The district is predominantly Telugu-speaking, with minorities of Urdu and Kannada speakers. Administratively, Anantapur is served by an urban local body and an elected municipal administration; the city is connected by road networks and has a railway station that links to major Indian cities.