Meerut

Meerut, in western Uttar Pradesh, is one of North India’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, with roots stretching back to the Indus–Saraswati era. Archaeological sites such as Hastinapur and Alamgirpur (near Meerut) show settlement here as early as 2500–1500 BCE. Classical traditions link the region to the Mahabharata, identifying it with parts of the Kuru kingdom.

The name “Meerut” is often traced to Maya Rashtra or Mairath, associated with the legendary architect Maya, father-in-law of Ravana, though the exact origin remains debated. By the early historic period, Meerut was part of major empires—from the Mauryas and Guptas to later regional kingdoms. During the medieval era, it became a strategic town under the Delhi Sultanate and later the Mughals. Its proximity to Delhi ensured frequent military and administrative importance.

In the early 19th century, the British established a powerful cantonment here, transforming Meerut into a major military centre. On 10 May 1857, Meerut became the birthplace of the First War of Indian Independence, when Indian soldiers revolted, sparking the wider uprising that spread to Delhi and northern India.

After Independence, Meerut developed into an important hub for sports goods, scissors, musical instruments, agriculture, and education. Today the city blends ancient heritage with its identity as a modern economic and military centre of western Uttar Pradesh.