Saraikela

Saraikela, also spelled Seraikella, (Odia: ଷଢେଇଖଳା) is the administrative headquarters of Saraikela Kharsawan District of Jharkhand. Earlier it was a municipality in Pashchimi Singhbhum district in the Indian state of Jharkhand. It was formerly the capital of the Odia Saraikela State, a princely state. The town is a road junction and agricultural trade centre, with nearby deposits of copper, iron-ore, asbestos, and limestone.

Geography

Saraikela is situated on bank of the Kharkai River in southern Jharkhand. It is well connected with Jamshedpur via land route.

History

Saraikela state

The Saraikela state was founded in 1620 by Raja Bikram Singh (a fore-runner to the ruling family's current nomenclature of Singh Deo), a descendant of the rulers of Porahat, who claimed descent from the Rathore clan of Rajputs.

Culture

Saraikela is known for its Chhau dance. It is a unique amalgamation of Oriya and tribal culture. The palace of the former Raja, Kudarsai temple, Guest House and the Shiva temple are some cultural places to visit. Rath yatra and Durga puja are some festivals celebrated with much joy. It is also famous for its laddu.