About Bankura

Bankura is a historical district of West Bengal, India. It is popular for its ancient monument and terracotta horses, known as Bankura horses. The latter has now become a symbol of Indian handicrafts. Amongst other crafts are dokra and baluchari saris.

Bankura is located in the western part of the state of West Bengal. It is a part of Bardhaman Division and included in the area known as "Rarh" in Bengal. It ranks 4th according to population and literacy rate of 2001 Census in the state. The district is bounded by latitude 22038’ N and longitude 86036’ E to 87047’ E. The Damodar River flows along the northern boundary of the district. The adjacent districts are Bardhaman District in the north, Purulia District in the west and Paschim Medinipur in the south. The Survey of India (SOI) toposheets covering the districts are 73I, 73J, 73M and 73N.

Politically, for past few years it has been a stronghold of CPI(M). However, maoists have gained strength in the jungles of southwest Bankura. The Bankura and Bishnupur towns are considered anti-CPI(M).