Godhra
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
| Godhra | |
  Godhra
|
|
| State - District(s) |
Gujarat - Panchmahal |
| Coordinates | |
| Area - Elevation |
- 73 m |
| Time zone | IST (UTC+5:30) |
| Population (2001) - Density |
121,852 - |
Godhra is a city and a municipality in Panchmahal district in the Indian state of Gujarat. It is the administrative headquarters of the Panchmahal district. Godhra witnessed communal violence in 2002 which sparked off one of the worst communal riots in the history of the state of Gujarat following an attack on a train by a mob which led to the death of 57 people, including 15 women and 20 children. Recent investigations by partisan committees have cast doubt on the claim that the fire was set intentionally, with some sources saying that the fire may have been set from inside the train. However, these claims were refuted by the high court in 2006.
Godhra is also one of the religious places in the India which has four bethaks (temples) for Vaisnav Sampraday (Vaisnal Community). Two bethaks are of Lord Gokulnathaji, and one each for Lord Gusaiji and Lord Mahaprabhuji.
[edit] Geography
Godhra is located at [1]. It has an average elevation of 73 metres (239 feet).
Kanelav Talav, a nice pond set in a scenic setting has offered refuge to generations of Godhra residents. Ram Sagar, another pond in the center of the town offers another anchor point that also serves as a place to relax and meet your friends.
Few miles from Godhra lie the Pavagadh hills. On the peak of hills is famous temple of Goddess Kali. It is one of the oldest place of worship. On the foot hills of Pavagadh is ancient fort of Champaner which was the medieval capital of Gujarat and seat of Chavda Kingdom.
Godhra also has three beautiful Jain temples.
[edit] Demographics
As of 2001 India censusGRIndia, Godhra had a population of 121,852. Males constitute 52% of the population and females 48%. Godhra has an average literacy rate of 73%, higher than the national average of 59.5%: male literacy is 78%, and female literacy is 66%. In Godhra, 14% of the population is under 6 years of age.
