Profile

Introduction

Barwani district came into existence on 25th May 1998. Prior to this, it was a part of the Khargone (West Nimar) district. The district is situated in the southwestern part of Madhya Pradesh, with the holy Narmada River forming its northern boundary. Geographically, the region is diverse, flanked by the Satpura ranges in the south and the Vindhyachal ranges in the north, giving it a distinct landscape.

The name of this district is believed to have originated from ‘forests of Banyan trees’ (‘Bad ke van’), as historically this area was surrounded by large Banyan trees. The word ‘Wani’ means ‘garden’, thus the literal meaning of ‘Barwani’ is ‘Garden of Banyan trees’. This nomenclature reflects the greenery and natural richness of the region.

History

The history of Barwani is a rich tapestry woven with threads of valor, spirituality, and resilience. Its historical narrative is primarily centered around the Sisodia dynasty, which traces its origins to Mewar (Rajasthan).

Ancient and Medieval Era (Foundation)

The genesis of Barwani’s rulers is linked to the Sisodia Rajputs of Mewar. It is believed that descendants of the Maharanas of Mewar, Rana Jodha Singh (or, according to some sources, a Sisodia prince), arrived in this region of Malwa and Nimad around the 14th century. They established their capital amidst the hills and dense forests of the Satpura range. Initially, their capital was at ‘Avasthgarh’ in the Satpura hills, which was later shifted to the present town of Barwani for strategic and security reasons. Even during the rule of the Delhi Sultanate and later the Mughals, the rulers of Barwani largely retained their autonomy due to the region’s rugged and inaccessible terrain.

Maratha Period and Struggle (18th Century)

During the Peshwa era, Malwa came under Maratha dominance. The Barwani state also faced increasing pressure from Maratha powers, particularly the Holkars and Scindias. In this period, the state had to pay ‘Chauth’ (tribute) to the Marathas for protection and lost several of its territories to larger neighboring princely states.

British Colonial Period (19th Century to 1947)

After the Third Anglo-Maratha War (1818), when the British defeated the Marathas, the Barwani state came under British protection as a princely state. It was placed under the ‘Bhopawar Agency’, later renamed the ‘Barwani Sub-Agency’, of the Central India Agency. During British rule, under rulers like Maharaja Ranjit Singh and Maharaja Devi Singh, the state witnessed the development of modern infrastructure such as roads, hospitals, and schools. The town’s beauty earned it the nickname “Paris of Nimad.” The Jain pilgrimage site of Bawangaja was also revitalized during this time, enhancing its religious significance and establishing it as a major cultural center.

The 1857 Revolt and Bhima Nayak

The land of Barwani has been a cradle of rebellion. Its history stands testament to the fierce resistance of tribal communities against British rule. Bhima Nayak, born in Dhaba Bawadi in Barwani, emerged as a legendary hero of the 1857 uprising. He organized a formidable ‘Bhil’ army and led a relentless guerrilla warfare campaign against the British from the impregnable Satpura hills. Celebrated as the “Robin Hood of Nimad,” he was known for looting British treasuries and distributing the wealth among the poor. He was eventually captured and exiled to the Cellular Jail in Port Blair (Kala Pani), where he died.

Post-Independence and Modern Status

After India’s independence on 15 August 1947, the Maharawal Rajendra Singh (Last ruling monarch) of Barwani signed the instrument of accession, merging the state with the Indian Union. In 1 June 1948, it became part of the ‘Madhya Bharat’ state. Upon the reorganization of states on 1 November 1956, Barwani was integrated into the West Nimar (Khargone) district of the newly formed Madhya Pradesh. Finally, on 25 May 1998, Barwani was carved out as a separate, full-fledged district.

Geography

Barwani District is situated in the southwestern part of Madhya Pradesh, India, spanning a geographical area between 21° 37′ and 22° 22′ North Latitude and 74° 27′ and 75° 30′ East Longitude. The district shares its borders with Khargone District to the east, Dhar District to the north, and the states of Maharashtra and Gujarat to the south and west, respectively. The district is triangular in shape with its highest elevation point located in the western region. The district headquarters, Barwani town, is located on the southern bank of the sacred Narmada River.

Population

Population of district Barwani is 13,85,881 (Census-2011) with 27.57% growth in the decade.