Historical Background of Deoria District
Deoria is a district located in the eastern part of the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. It is part of the Gorakhpur Division and lies close to the border of Bihar. The district headquarters is the town of Deoria. Known for its historical significance, agricultural richness, and cultural diversity, Deoria plays an important role in the socio-economic fabric of the region.
The history of Deoria is rich and dates back to ancient times. It is believed that the name “Deoria” is derived from the word “Devaranya” or “Devpuria,” meaning the land of gods or divine forest. This suggests that the region may have been a center of religious and spiritual significance in ancient India.
Deoria was part of the ancient Kosala Kingdom, which was ruled by King Dasharatha, the father of Lord Rama. It is said that Lord Rama, during his exile, passed through this region, making it a land of mythological importance. The area also finds mention in various ancient scriptures and texts.
During British rule, Deoria was part of the larger Gorakhpur district. It played an active role in the Indian freedom movement. Many freedom fighters from Deoria contributed to the Quit India Movement and Non-Cooperation Movement. The region also saw active participation in protests against British land and tax policies.
Deoria was carved out as a separate district from Gorakhpur in 1946, just before India’s independence, recognizing its growing administrative importance. After independence, Deoria witnessed gradual development in education, agriculture, and rural industries. Despite facing challenges like migration and lack of infrastructure, the district has continued to evolve while preserving its cultural and historical roots.
Geographical Location of Deoria District
- Latitude and Longitude:
Deoria district lies approximately between 26.1° to 26.6° North latitude and 83.4° to 84.1° East longitude. - Area:
The total area of Deoria district is around 2,535 square kilometers. - Elevation:
The district stands at an average elevation of about 68 meters (223 feet) above sea level. - Boundaries of Deoria District:
| Direction | Neighboring District/State |
|---|---|
| North | Kushinagar (U.P.) |
| East | Gopalganj and Siwan (Bihar) |
| South | Ballia (U.P.) |
| West | Gorakhpur and Mau (U.P.) |
Freedom Fighters from Deoria District
1. Shivnath Singh
Shivnath Singh was a prominent freedom fighter from Deoria who actively participated in the Quit India Movement of 1942. He was known for organizing protests and mobilizing the youth against British rule. He was jailed multiple times for his involvement in the freedom struggle.
2. Raghunath Singh
Raghunath Singh was another revolutionary figure from Deoria. He played a major role in mobilizing local villagers and farmers to join the independence movement. His efforts helped spread nationalist awareness in the rural areas of the district.
3. Ramchandra Vikal
Although he is more famously associated with western Uttar Pradesh, Ramchandra Vikal had connections with many regions during the freedom struggle, including Deoria, where he helped coordinate movements and protests.
4. Local Youth and Students
Many young students and ordinary villagers from Deoria participated in the Non-Cooperation Movement (1920), Civil Disobedience Movement (1930), and the Quit India Movement (1942). They boycotted British goods, participated in underground movements, and helped distribute nationalist literature.
5. Women Freedom Fighters
Deoria also had the involvement of women in the freedom struggle, though many remain unnamed in the records. These women supported the cause by hiding revolutionaries, offering food and shelter, and participating in marches and protests.
Role in Quit India Movement (1942)
The Quit India Movement saw widespread participation from Deoria district. Several schools and colleges became hubs for revolutionary activities. British police cracked down heavily on protestors in the region, and many were imprisoned or beaten for raising slogans of “Angrezon Bharat Chhodo.”