Budaun district, located in western Uttar Pradesh, carries a rich historical legacy. This place is not just a name on the map; it holds centuries of stories, rulers, revolutions, and religious significance. Many believe Budaun was originally known as “Bedamooth” or “Boda Mayut,” and was later renamed Budaun during the medieval period.
According to historical texts, Budaun was an important city during the rule of the Delhi Sultanate. It was said that Shams-ud-din Iltutmish, the third ruler of the Mamluk dynasty and one of the most prominent sultans of Delhi, was appointed as the governor of Budaun before he became the emperor. Because of this, Budaun earned the title “the heart of the Sultanate” in historical references.
The district has also been a prominent center for Islamic scholars, poets, and saints. Several dargahs and mosques in the region trace back to the Sultanate period, giving the city a unique blend of architecture and spirituality. But it’s not just about Muslim history—Hindu temples, Jain shrines, and Sikh gurudwaras also add to the cultural fabric of the region.
Budaun was later ruled by the Mughals and eventually came under British control during colonial India. The freedom movement saw the participation of people from this region, though it wasn’t in the national spotlight. After independence, Budaun became a full-fledged district in Uttar Pradesh and has seen gradual development since then.
Geography and Climate of Budaun district –
Budaun district is situated in the Rohilkhand region of Uttar Pradesh, surrounded by Bareilly in the north, Moradabad in the west, and Shahjahanpur to the east. It lies between the Ganges and Ramganga rivers, making the land highly fertile and suitable for farming. The total area of the district is about 5,168 square kilometers.
Geographically, Budaun is part of the Indo-Gangetic plain, which is mostly flat. The district is divided into several tehsils such as Budaun, Sahaswan, Ujhani, Bisauli, and Dataganj. Each tehsil has its unique local economy and culture. The soil is rich in alluvium, and water sources are easily available through tube wells and canals.
Rivers:
- Sot River and Aril River flow through the district and play a key role in irrigation.
- The Ganga River flows nearby, influencing the local climate and agriculture.
Climate:
Budaun has a typical North Indian climate. Summers are hot, often reaching above 40°C in May and June. The monsoon comes around late June to September, providing much-needed rain for the crops. Winters are cool and dry, with temperatures dropping to around 7-10°C in January.
Due to its geographical features, Budaun supports large-scale agriculture. The district has been historically less industrialized, but with its roads and railway links, it remains well-connected to cities like Bareilly, Delhi, and Lucknow.
Economy – Agriculture, Markets, and Growing Opportunities
The economy of Budaun district is largely based on agriculture. A majority of the population is engaged in farming, either as landowners or laborers. The fertile soil, availability of water, and suitable climate allow the cultivation of various crops.
Major Crops Grown:
- Wheat and Rice: These are the main food grains.
- Sugarcane: A cash crop that supports the district’s small sugar mills.
- Pulses and Mustard: Grown mainly during the rabi season.
- Vegetables: Like potatoes, onions, tomatoes are also cultivated in certain areas.
Besides farming, animal husbandry is another key income source. Many households rear cows, buffaloes, and goats for milk and dairy products. Local milk production is strong, and some dairy cooperatives have come up in recent years.
Small Industries and Businesses:
- Brick kilns, flour mills, and handicrafts are common in small towns.
- Weekly bazaars and grain markets (mandis) serve as the main centers for trade.
- In urban areas like Budaun city and Ujhani, you’ll find shops dealing in cloth, utensils, electronics, and mobile phones.
The district still lacks large-scale industries. However, youth are finding employment in service sectors, including teaching, healthcare, and government jobs. With better infrastructure and connectivity, Budaun is slowly opening its doors to private businesses, education centers, and online startups.
Demographics – Language, People, and Culture
As per the 2011 Census, Budaun district has a population of over 3.6 million. It ranks among the more densely populated districts of Uttar Pradesh. The population is diverse in terms of language, religion, and caste composition.
Languages Spoken:
- Hindi is the main language.
- Urdu is widely spoken, especially in Muslim-dominated areas.
- Local dialects like Khari Boli and Braj are also used in villages.
Religious Composition:
- Hindus form the majority, followed by Muslims who form a large portion of the urban population.
- Small numbers of Jains, Sikhs, and Christians also reside in certain towns.
Education & Literacy:
- Literacy rate is around 52-60%, with a significant gap between males and females.
- The district has many government schools, inter colleges, and a few degree colleges. However, higher education is still limited.
Culture and Festivities:
Budaun celebrates all major Hindu and Muslim festivals with equal enthusiasm. Eid, Holi, Diwali, and Dussehra bring communities together. The region is also known for its qawwalis, folk songs, and local fairs that celebrate saints and freedom fighters.
Traditional attire still rules in rural areas, with men wearing kurta-pajamas and women in sarees or salwar kameez. In towns, western wear is becoming more common, especially among the youth.
Tourist Places in Budaun – Spiritual, Historical, and Cultural Spots
Budaun might not be a mainstream tourist destination, but it has several hidden gems that attract religious devotees, history lovers, and those seeking peaceful rural escapes.
1. Jama Masjid, Budaun:
This historical mosque is one of the oldest in India, built during the Delhi Sultanate period. Its Islamic architecture and peaceful surroundings make it a must-visit.
2. Dargah of Hazrat Nizamuddin Budauni:
A famous Sufi shrine in the city, visited by people of all faiths.
3. Kachhla Bridge (Ganga Barrage):
Located near the Ganga River, it’s a scenic place with greenery and open skies, ideal for picnics and photography.
4. Ancient Shiv Temples and Hanuman Mandirs:
Across various towns like Ujhani, Bisauli, and Sahaswan, there are beautiful temples that reflect the spiritual roots of the region.
5. Budaun Fort Remains:
Though much of it is in ruins, old structures and gates remind us of the city’s past military importance.
6. Weekly Fairs and Melas:
Traditional melas during Navratri, Muharram, and Urs attract people from nearby villages. Handicrafts, sweets, and folk dances are highlights.
The district also has natural beauty—open fields, riverbanks, and countryside that offer a peaceful break from city life.
Politics and Administration – Budaun’s Role in UP’s Political Landscape
Budaun district has a significant role in Uttar Pradesh politics. It has produced several influential leaders and has long been a part of the state’s political battleground, especially during Lok Sabha and Vidhan Sabha elections.
Political Divisions:
- Budaun is divided into several Assembly constituencies like Budaun, Ujhani, Dataganj, Bisauli, and Sahaswan.
- The Budaun Lok Sabha seat has seen contests between major parties like Samajwadi Party, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), and Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP).
Key Political Figures:
- Mulayam Singh Yadav’s Samajwadi Party has had a strong base in the region.
- Sanghmitra Maurya from the BJP has represented Budaun in Parliament in recent years.
Local Governance:
- The district is managed by a District Magistrate (DM) who looks after law and order, development projects, and welfare schemes.
- Block development offices, tehsil offices, and Panchayati Raj institutions handle village-level issues.
The common people of Budaun are politically aware, and voter turnout is usually high. Issues like unemployment, education, agriculture, and law enforcement often dominate election debates.
Final Thoughts – The Growing Identity of Budaun District
Budaun is a district where the old meets the new. Its deep roots in Indian history, spiritual significance, and traditional lifestyle are now slowly blending with the modern aspirations of youth and development.
From lush fields and rivers to ancient monuments and bustling markets, Budaun is more than just a name on the map. It’s a living example of how small towns and districts hold the real essence of India—diverse, resilient, and full of potential.
With better roads, education, and digital access, Budaun is on the path to becoming more connected, more aware, and more empowered. Whether you’re a traveler, a student, or just someone curious about Uttar Pradesh, Budaun deserves your attention.
