Maihar

Maihar is a town and municipality in Satna district in the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh. It is situated in the north-central part of the state, in the Bagelkhand region. The town sits on elevated ground with views over surrounding farmland and is a regional commercial center.

A prominent landmark is the Sharda Devi Temple, a Hindu shrine located on a hill overlooking Maihar. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Sharda and is a major pilgrimage site for devotees; it is approached by a long ascent and attracts visitors throughout the year, with increased activity during festivals.

Maihar is also known for its cultural heritage in Hindustani classical music. The town gave its name to the Maihar Gharana, a tradition of vocal and instrumental performance established by Pandit Allauddin Khan, who lived there. He trained numerous renowned musicians, including Ravi Shankar and Ali Akbar Khan, shaping a lineage influential in 20th-century Indian classical music.

In addition to its cultural significance, Maihar serves as a regional transportation and market center, connected by road and rail to other cities in Madhya Pradesh and adjacent states. Local industries and agriculture form part of the economy, with markets that serve nearby towns.