Bidar (ಬೀದರ್) is a district in northeastern Karnataka, India, bordering Maharashtra and Telangana. Its headquarters, Bidar city, sits on the Deccan Plateau. The district is known for its Bahmani and Barid Shahi heritage, imposing fortifications, and Bidriware, a metal craft distinguished by silver inlay.
Kannada, Urdu, Marathi and Telugu reflect the area’s linguistic diversity. Agriculture, trade, services and handicrafts support livelihoods, with pulses and sugarcane among local crops. Major landmarks include Bidar Fort, the Mahmud Gawan Madrasa, the Bahmani tombs at Ashtur and Gurudwara Nanak Jhira Sahib. Basavakalyan, within the district, is closely associated with Basavanna and the twelfth-century Sharana movement.
Common civic concerns include reliable drinking water, irrigation, road maintenance, sanitation and access to healthcare and education. Farmers care about rainfall, crop prices and market access, while young people seek training and employment. Heritage conservation, support for artisans and better tourism facilities also matter to the district’s development.