Ratanmahal Sloth Bear Sanctuary, Dahod

History

Devgadh Baria is located on the bank of Panam River and is part of Dahod district (formerly Panchmahal) in the state of Gujarat. This town was established in 1782. Two sons of King Vatai Rawal escaped from this region when the king of Gujarat, Mohammad Beghda, tried to conquer Pavagadh. Older brother Prithiraj's son, Udaisinh, established the town of Chhota Udaipur, and the younger brother, Dungerpursinh, established Devagadh Baria. The family of Dungerpursinh ruled the Baria State for the twelve generations. As of 2001 India census, Devgadh Baria has a population of 19,201. Males constitute 51% of the population and females 49%. Devgadh Baria has an average literacy rate of 61%, higher than the national average of 59.5%: male literacy is 70% and, female literacy is 53%. In Devgadh Baria, 15% of the population is under 6 years of age. On 15 February 2015 the former royal family moved back into the Rajmahal, the original residence of the family. After getting the palace back from the government in 2006 and spending nine years behind the renovations it has been restored to its original glory.