History of Balaghat District
Balaghat district, located in the southeastern part of Madhya Pradesh, holds immense historical, cultural, and geographical significance. The recorded history of this region dates back to the early 18th century when it was divided between two major Gond kingdoms—Deogarh and Garha-Mandla. The western part of the district, situated on the west of the Wainganga River, belonged to the Deogarh kingdom, while the eastern part was under Garha-Mandla rule.
Maratha and British Rule:
In 1743, the Bhonsle Marathas of Nagpur captured Deogarh, and by 1781, they had taken control of the northern portions of the district as well. Eventually, in 1798, the Bhonsles also acquired the eastern Garha-Mandla territories. Following the Third Anglo-Maratha War in 1818, the Nagpur state became a princely state under British India. In 1853, it was annexed by the British, and Balaghat became part of the newly formed Nagpur Province. In 1861, the province was reorganized as part of the Central Provinces.
Formation of Balaghat District:
Balaghat district was officially formed in 1867 by merging parts of the districts of Bhandara, Seoni, and Mandla. Its original administrative headquarters was a place called “Bura” or “Budha,” which was later replaced by the name “Balaghat,” originally referring only to the district. Administratively, the district was divided into two main tehsils — Baihar (north) and Balaghat (south).
Origin of the Name “Balaghat”:
The name “Balaghat” literally means “above the ghats (mountain passes).” It is believed that the district got its name from the numerous hilly passes such as Masen Ghat, Kanjai Ghat, Dongri Ghat, Tepaghat, and others. Initially, the name “Barahghat” (meaning twelve ghats) was proposed, but during official communication with the then capital Calcutta, it was modified and eventually became “Balaghat.”
Famines and Development:
The district faced severe famines during the late 19th century, particularly in the years 1868–69, 1896–97, and 1899–1900, when paddy crops failed drastically. This led to a significant population decline, with the census of 1901 recording 326,521 people—a 15% drop from the previous decade.
The completion of the Jabalpur-Gondia railway line in 1904 greatly improved connectivity and transport infrastructure within the district.
Post-Independence Balaghat:
After India gained independence in 1947, Balaghat became part of the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh. During the state reorganization on 1 November 1956, Balaghat was incorporated into the Jabalpur Division of Madhya Pradesh, while the southern neighboring districts—Nagpur, Bhandara, and Gondia—were transferred to Bombay State (now Maharashtra).
Present Day Balaghat:
Today, Balaghat is known for its scenic beauty, rich forest cover, tribal heritage, and abundant mineral resources. The Malanjkhand Copper Mines, located in the district, are among the largest in Asia. The district’s deep-rooted history, ancient Buddhist relics, and tribal settlements reflect a rich cultural tapestry, making it a region of both historical and contemporary importance.