Hadoti

Hadoti is a geographical and cultural region in southeastern Rajasthan, India. It roughly corresponds to the Kota Division and includes the districts of Kota, Baran, Bundi, and Jhalawar. The name Hadoti is commonly used in historic and cultural contexts to denote this cohesive area centered on Kota and its hinterland, and it is associated with the Hadoti dialect of the Rajasthani language.

Geographically, Hadoti lies in a semi-arid zone with a mix of undulating terrain, rocky hills, and river valleys. The eastern boundary is defined in part by the Chambal river and its tributaries, and the area experiences hot summers, monsoon rains, and relatively mild winters.

Historically, Hadoti has been home to several Rajput principalities and princely states. The region preserves notable heritage sites, including Bundi's Taragarh Fort and Bundi Palace, and Kota's City Palace and fortifications. The area is known for traditional crafts such as Kota stone, Kota Doria textiles, and distinctive mural and folk traditions. The Hadoti dialect of Rajasthani is spoken alongside Hindi in the region.

Economically, agriculture is important, with crops such as maize, wheat, and pulses. The region is also known for Kota stone used in construction and for Kota Doria fabrics. Kota city has developed as an educational hub, particularly for coaching institutes that prepare students for engineering and medical entrance examinations.

Hadoti is not an administrative unit but a cultural region within Rajasthan. It falls mainly under the Kota Division and administratively overlaps with four districts. The population is predominantly Hindu, with communities including Rajputs, Meenas, and Bhils, speaking Hadoti and other Rajasthani dialects alongside Hindi.