Mau District :- A Confluence of Culture, Craft, and History
Detailed History
Mau, also known as ‘Maunath Bhanjan‘, is a significant and historical district in the Purvanchal region of Uttar Pradesh. Its history is enriched with mythological and medieval tales. The word ‘Mau‘ signifies a ‘cantonment‘ or ‘camp‘ in the Turkish language, reflecting its military importance. In ancient times, this region was covered with dense forests where many sages performed penance. During the medieval period, under the Mughal Emperor Akbar, it became a major hub for weaving. It was granted the status of an independent district in 1988. Today, it is recognized across India for its historical heritage and flourishing textile industry.
Detailed Architecture
The architecture of Mau is a testament to communal harmony and blended artistry.
- Exterior Architecture :– Older buildings utilize ‘Lakhouri‘ bricks and lime. Specifically, the Shahi Masjid and ancient gateways showcase Mughal-style carvings and domes. The temple spires are built in the North Indian ‘Nagara’ style.
- Interior Architecture :– The mosques feature vast prayer halls and intricate arches, while the temples house sanctums and carved pillars. In the old weaver neighborhoods, houses are designed with dedicated spaces for handlooms within the living quarters.
Nearby Attractions
- Vandevi Temple :– Located about 12 km from Mau, it is believed to be the site where Goddess Sita stayed in Maharishi Valmiki’s ashram during her exile. It features a beautiful park and a reservoir.
- Shahi Masjid :– A magnificent Mughal-era mosque known for its grandeur and architecture, reflecting the district’s historical depth.
- Sheetla Mata Temple :– A major center of faith for locals, attracting large crowds during the Navratri festival.
- Tamsa River Bank :– The calm environment and sunset views here are perfect for photography enthusiasts.
- Dohrighat :– A sacred spot on the banks of the Ghaghara River, offering a confluence-like experience of the Saryu and Ghaghara. It houses several ancient temples and ghats.
Travel Guide & Routes
- Tickets and Timings :– Entry to most religious and natural sites is Free. Visiting hours are generally from 5:00 AM to 8:30 PM.
- How to Reach :–
- By Rail :– Mau Junction (MAU) is the main station, directly connected to Varanasi, Azamgarh, and Gorakhpur.
- By Road :– Mau is situated on NH-24, making it easily accessible by bus or private vehicle.
- By Air :– The nearest airport is Varanasi (VNS), approximately 95-100 km away.
- Photography Spots :– Vandevi Park, the Tamsa River bridge, and the exterior of the Shahi Masjid.
- Local Taste :– Do not miss the Dum Aloo, Litti-Chokha, and fresh milk-based sweets (Barfi).
- Famous Markets :– Weaver Market and Sadar Bazar are the best places to buy authentic handloom sarees and textiles.
Author’s Perspective
From my perspective, Mau is not just an industrial district; it is a living example of human labor and art. When you hear the sound of looms in the narrow lanes, you realize that creativity is embedded in its soil. Peaceful spots like Vandevi and the banks of the Tamsa provide a sense of serenity in this fast-paced world. If you want to witness the true culture and rural roots of Uttar Pradesh closely, a visit to Mau will be memorable.
Interesting Facts
- Mau is often called the ‘Manchester of the East‘ in a regional context due to its massive textile production.
- The Valmiki Ashram near Vandevi Temple revives memories of the Ramayana era.
- Mau’s sarees are highly popular not only in India but also in Gulf countries.
Important Questions and Answer :-
- Question 1:- On which river bank is Mau district located? Answer:- Mau district is primarily situated on the banks of the Tamsa River.
- Question 2:- What is the most prominent industry here? Answer:- The most prominent industry is the Handloom and Powerloom textile industry.
- Question 3:- Is there any picnic spot for children in Mau? Answer:- Yes, the Vandevi Temple complex has a beautiful park and play area for children.
- Question 4:- What is the distance from Mau to Varanasi? Answer:- The distance from Mau to Varanasi by road is approximately 90 to 100 kilometers.
- Question 5:- What was the old name of Mau? Answer:- It has historically been known as Maunath Bhanjan.
Si“The skill of weavers and the pride of history beat in the lanes of Mau.”