Chhota Udepur (છોટાઉદેપુર) is a district in eastern Gujarat, India, bordering Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra. Its headquarters is Chhota Udepur town. Formed from Vadodara district in 2013, it is known for its substantial Adivasi population, wooded hills and rural landscapes.
Rathwa and other tribal communities shape the district’s cultural life through festivals, music, dance and Pithora painting, a distinctive ritual art tradition. Agriculture, livestock rearing, forest-based livelihoods and local trade support much of the economy. Weekly markets connect villages and serve as important social spaces. Notable landmarks include the heritage buildings of Chhota Udepur town and the archaeological remains at Tejgadh.
Common civic concerns include reliable drinking water, irrigation, road connectivity and access to healthcare and schools, especially in remote settlements. Residents also care about employment, seasonal migration, forest rights and effective delivery of public services. Preserving tribal languages, cultural traditions and local environments is important alongside improving infrastructure and economic opportunities.