Kendujhar (Keonjhar), locally written as କେନ୍ଦୁଝର, is a district in northern Odisha, India, with its administrative headquarters at Kendujhar town. It is known for mineral-rich hills, forests and waterfalls. Iron ore mining is a major part of its economy, alongside agriculture and forest-based livelihoods.
The district has a substantial Adivasi population, including Ho and Juang communities, whose languages, festivals and traditions contribute to its cultural life. Odia is widely spoken. Farming, mining, transport and local trade support many households. Notable destinations include Sanaghagara and Badaghagara waterfalls, the Gonasika hills and the Tarini temple at Ghatagaon, an important pilgrimage centre.
Common civic concerns include mining-related dust, road safety, water quality and balancing industrial activity with forest conservation. Residents also care about reliable healthcare, school access, rural roads and employment opportunities. Land rights, protection of Adivasi livelihoods and transparent use of mining-linked development funds are important topics in the district’s public life.