Bilaspur is known as the "Dhaan Ka Katora", which means Rice Bowl in Hindi, of the Chhattisgarh region in the Bilaspur District, India. It is the third-largest city in the state with a population of 265,178 (agglomeration 330,291) (2001 census). The High Court of Chhattisgarh is located here. It is the headquarters of Bilaspur District and is located 111 km (69 mi) north of the state capital of Raipur. Besides this it is also the headquarters of the South East Central Railway which comprises the Bilaspur, Nagpur and Raipur divisions. Bilaspur is situated on the banks of the Arpa River which originates from the high hills of the Maikal Range of central India. This dolomite rich region is surrounded by lush green forests in the north and the coal mines of Hasdeo valley in the east. Bilaspur is known for its aromatic Doobraj rice, handloom woven colorful soft Kosa silk Saris, and more for its rich, varied and colorful culture.
