State PCS - Uttar Pradesh (UP PCS)

• 19 Sep 2025

Baghpat to be Part of UP's Mahabharata Circuit

Why in News?

The historic site in Baranava, Baghpat, associated with the Pandavas from the Mahabharata, is set for major development under UP's Mahabharata Circuit project with Rs 1 crore funding.

Key Points

• About: Located 35 km from Baghpat, the site features a mound and ruins preserved by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), adding historical depth to its significance.
• History: In the Mahabharata, the story of the 'Lakshagriha' or the palace of lac is central, where the Kauravas attempted to burn the Pandavas alive. 
  • This iconic episode, where the Pandavas and their mother Kunti narrowly escaped, continues to captivate generations. 
  • Visitors to Baranava will now be able to explore traces of this historic site.
• Significance: The project will enhance Baghpat’s standing in India’s religious and cultural tourism, attracting more pilgrims and history enthusiasts while generating new tourism opportunities. 
  • The project includes essential infrastructure upgrades such as beautification, lighting, sanitation, drinking water, rest areas, and visitor information centers.
  • In addition to its Mahabharata ties, Baghpat has gained attention as a Harappan archaeological site. Excavations have uncovered artifacts such as greyware pottery, while the 2018 discovery of bronze chariot remnants from around 2000 BC in Sinauli village brought global recognition. 

UP Mahabharata Circuit Project

• The UP Mahabharata Circuit project is an initiative by the Uttar Pradesh government to develop and promote sites associated with the Mahabharata epic as major cultural, religious, and heritage tourism destinations in the state.
• The project aims to boost tourism by upgrading infrastructure and beautifying locations linked to the Mahabharata, making them attractive for pilgrims, historians, and tourists.
• The initiative focuses on preserving heritage, enhancing tourism infrastructure, and merging modern facilities with historical sanctity. 
• It seeks to create job opportunities, boost the local economy, and deepen visitors’ connection to India’s epic traditions.

Places Associated With UP's Mahabharata Circuit Project
Place	Significance
Hastinapur	The capital of the Kuru kingdom, birthplace of the Pandavas and Kauravas, and a significant backdrop for many key events in the Mahabharata, including the infamous game of dice.
Keechakvadh Sthal	The site where Bhima killed Keechaka, avenging Draupadi’s dignity during their exile in the Virata kingdom. It symbolizes justice and retribution.
Ahichchhatra	A major kingdom of the northern Panchala kingdom, ruled by King Drupada, father of Draupadi. It served as a strategic military base and political center during the Mahabharata era.
Gonda	A region associated with the Pandavas' exile, though not directly involved in major battles, it represents the vast expanse of the Mahabharata's geographical landscape.
Prayagraj	A sacred site where the Pandavas performed rituals post-Kurukshetra war. It is closely linked to spiritual events and Vyasa’s guidance in the Mahabharata.
Lakshagraha	The place where the Kauravas tried to kill the Pandavas by setting their house on fire marked the beginning of their 13-year exile.
Kampilya	The capital of the Panchala Kingdom, birthplace of Draupadi, and the site of her swayamvara, where Arjuna won her hand. It was a center of political and cultural activity.
Barnava	The site of the infamous Lakshagraha burning attempt, where the Pandavas escaped, symbolizes resilience and survival in the epic.
Kaushambi	A politically and militarily significant city, mentioned in the Mahabharata, especially in connection with the Pandavas’ return to reclaim their kingdom.
Vidur Kuti	The place where Vidura, the wise minister of the Kuru dynasty, spent his later years in exile symbolizes righteousness and dharma.
Mathura	The birthplace of Lord Krishna is a significant spiritual center in Hindu tradition. It symbolizes divine intervention and wisdom in the Mahabharata.