Kalaburagi

Kalaburagi, formerly Gulbarga, is a city in the northern part of Karnataka, India. It is the administrative headquarters of Kalaburagi district and a major urban center in the Hyderabad Karnataka region. The city has historical significance as the early capital of the Bahmani Sultanate in the 14th century, and its landscape preserves Bahmani-era monuments, most notably the Kalaburagi Fort. In 2014 the government formally renamed Gulbarga to Kalaburagi to reflect Kannada toponyms.

Geography and climate: Kalaburagi lies on the Deccan Plateau and experiences a hot, semi-arid climate. Summers are long and dry, and most rainfall occurs during the monsoon season. The area is prone to drought in some years.

Economy and demographics: The economy is largely based on agriculture, with crops such as cotton, maize, sorghum and sugarcane being important. The city serves as a commercial hub for surrounding rural areas and supports trade, services, and light industry. The district's population is in the millions, with Kalaburagi city as the principal urban center.

Education and infrastructure: The city hosts Gulbarga University, established in 1980, which provides higher education across arts, sciences, and professional fields. It has a number of colleges and research institutes and serves as a regional educational hub. Kalaburagi is connected by road and rail; Kalaburagi Junction is a key railway node for the region, linking to major cities in Karnataka and nearby states.

Culture and heritage: Kalaburagi reflects a mix of Hindu and Muslim heritage from its long history. The Bahmani-era fortifications and mosques are among its notable monuments, and the city observes regional festivals such as Basava Jayanthi and Eid, reflecting its diverse community.