Kaithal
was originally known as Kapisthal, which means ‘adobe of Kapi’. This place is
traditionally connected to Lord Hanuman. It is also
believed that the place had been founded by Yudhishthira, the head of Pandavas.
Today,
Kaithal is a Municipal Council that falls under Kaithal District. The district
of Kaithal is a flourishing agricultural area known for its cotton and rice.
Timur is believed to
have stopped here in 1398, before attacking Delhi. Later, this town became a
Muslim cultural centre, under the rule of Delhi Sultanate. Several Sufi
remnants such as tombs and shrines dating from the 13th century can be found in
the city today, among them being the tomb of Sheikh Sala -ud-din of Bhalkh
(1246 CE). Under the Mughal rule the
town thrived as an agricultural centre.
Kaithal
has a lesser known history as well. The Razia Sultan, who was the first woman
ruler of India, died here and her 'mazaar' (tomb)is still there in the city. In 1767, the city came under rule of the Sikh chieftain, Bhai
Desu Singh after which it came under British Influence.
Location: Situated on National Highway NH-65, connecting the state capital Chandigarh to Hissar.
Linking Roads: Kaithal is located on the Ambala-Hisar National Highway No.-65.
Postal Code: 136118 | Longitude: 76° 22' 60 E | Latitude: 29° 48' 0 N | Area: 2317sq. km | Altitude: 721 feet, 220 meters | Population: 946131 | Literacy Rate: 47.31% | STD Code: 01746 | Language: Hindi, English