Kalahandi district

Kalahandi district (Pron: Kaḷāhāṇḍi) is a district of Odisha in India. It was a princely state in British India and in post-independence period it merged with Odisha state in India as Kalahandi district comprising current Kalahandi district and Nuapada district. In 1967, Kashipur block from Kalahandi district was transferred to Rayagada district for administrative reasons. Despite its backwardness it is one of the rich regions in history, agriculture, forest resources, gemstone, bauxite, folk dance, folk music, folklore, handicrafts and arts. Kalahandi is also home to unique cultural expressions like the Paraja and Kondha tribal festivals, where age-old traditions such as Meria Dance and Ghumura music are still actively celebrated. In 1993, Nuapada sub-division was carved out as a separate district, but Kalahandi (Lok Sabha constituency) continues to constitute present Kalahandi district and Nuapada district together. The region's history dates back over 2,000 years, with evidence of a well-civilized and cultured society. Notably, Asurgarh near Narla stands as one of Odisha's oldest metropolises, showcasing the area's ancient urban development.The district is also home to several captivating natural attractions. Phurlijharan, a perennial waterfall approximately 30 feet high, is situated about 15 kilometers from Bhawanipatna. The surrounding evergreen forests make it a favored spot for group picnics.