Mahoba (महोबा) is a district in the Bundelkhand region of southern Uttar Pradesh, India, bordering Madhya Pradesh. Its headquarters is Mahoba town. The district is known for its Chandela-era heritage, historic lakes and rocky landscape. Its past is closely associated with the warrior figures Alha and Udal, celebrated in regional oral traditions.
Hindi and Bundeli are widely spoken, and local culture reflects Bundelkhand’s folk songs, festivals and storytelling. Agriculture supports many households, with stone quarrying, trade and services also contributing to livelihoods. Betel-leaf cultivation is a distinctive local activity. Notable landmarks include Kirat Sagar, Madan Sagar and the Sun Temple at Rahiliya.
Residents commonly care about reliable drinking water, irrigation and drought resilience. Other civic priorities include farm incomes, employment opportunities, roads, healthcare and education. Managing quarrying impacts, protecting historic lakes and monuments, and improving sanitation are also important to the district’s development and quality of life.