History of Hazaribagh town

Hazaribagh town and its panoramic view mesmerize all its visitors and tourists. Historians claim that there is an interesting history of this Hazaribagh town. Thus the history of Hazaribagh town dates back to as early as the eighteenth century. It was formed in the year 1790 as a cantonment town. At that time it was a part of Ramgarh district. Then in the year 1834 it has gained the status of being a district headquarter. However it retained its status of cantonment till the year 1884. One advantage of being a cantonment town is that large portion of the town was formed following a plan.

Boddam Bazar is the name of this portion of the town, which has been christened after the officer who established its foundation. . Quite a number of English men have built their settlements in Hazaribagh at the time of British era. They constructed huge `bungalow type houses`, most of which have got slanting roofs. They were renowned for their hunting skills.

The Hazaribagh Central Jail, a landmark, also has got its place in the rich history of Hazaribagh. During the Indian Freedom struggle, eminent personalities were imprisoned and were taken into this jail. Dr. Rajendra Prasad, who became the first president of India, was also prisoner of this jail. Another prisoner is Jayaprakash Narayan. He was a distinguished leader and was arrested and then took into this jail. It was during Quit India Movement that was held in the year 1942. Legend says that he had a bold escape from the prison fooling the security. The localities also helped him to escape.