Friday, September 3, 2010

About Ahmedabad

Ahmedabad, the prosperous and second largest city of western India which is admirably known as the “Manchester of East”, sits elegantly on the banks of river Sabarmati. It was founded by Sultan Ahmed Shah in 1411 to be served as capital of Gujarat Sultanate.
Ahmedabad became the capital of Gujarat in 1414, replacing Patan, and since then became the center of architectural activity. The first mosque built by Ahmed Shah, generally referred as Ahmed Shah Masjid, became the model for other mosques in the city with its large arch, minarets and lattice work. The largest mosque is Jami Masjid, which has a huge prayer room supported by 260 columns and crowned by 15 domes, was built in 1424. The most famous jails which are known for its lattice work are those of the 16th century S. These lattice work screens are the symbol of Ahmedabad.
Ahmedabad is also has good examples of stepwell architecture like Dada Harir Vav built in the 15th century and the 19th century Isanpur Stepwell. One of the most famous stepwells is the one at Adalaj, about 17km from the city, with detectable carvings running along the stairway to the water level.
Ahmedabad is the administrative capital of Ahmedabad District which served Gujarat State being a capital from 1960 to 1970 and thereafter capital was shifted to Gandhinagar. Also being a commercial and cultural heart of Gujarat and western India, Ahmedabad is a rising center of India’s economy, education, culture, information technology and scientific industry. This important industrial center is also flourished with lovely lakes, lush gardens, ancient monuments, modern infrastructure, amusement parks etc. Being a center of Gujarat’s cultural activities, diverse tradition and religious communities, Ahmedabad enjoys a vibrant culture traditions.
Ahmedabad became an important center of India’s freedom struggle when Mahatma Gandhi setup Sabarmati Ashram on the bank of river Sabarmati in 1917 and also witnesses several independence movements, protests and nationalist activities.
Today Ahmedabad is contributing the booming India in the textile, pharmacy, medical, education, engineering and information technology sectors.

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