About Patiala

Patiala is relatively a young city of royal heritage and rich tradition. Founded in 1764 by Baba Ala Singh, a soldier par excellence on an ancient mound, "PRASTHALA", frequently referred to in the Mahabharta epic, Patiala has since then acquired a place of eminence in political, social, religious, music and fine arts, cultural, academic and military spheres. It was Maharaja Bhupinder Singh (1900-1938) who gave Patiala State a prominent place on the political map of India. Later at the time of Indian independence his son Yadvindera Singh took a patriotic lead by signing the instrument of accession facilitating the process of national integration.

There after Patiala has continued to occupy an important place in regional politics. The Capital of Princely state Patiala has magnificent Forts, Palaces, extensive gardens like Quilla Androo Sheesh Mahal, Moti Bagh Palace, Baradari Garden, Art Galleries and National Institute of Sports. Baradari Gardens, Gurudwara Dukhniwaran Sahib, Temple Kali Devi, which on account of the rare murals on its walls, has been declared a national monument. Patiala is now one of the principle city of Punjab. National Institute of sports (NIS), Head quarters of State Bank of Patiala, Panjab State Electricity Board, Public Works Department, Public Service Commission, Punjab State Archives and Income Tax Department for this reason are also located here. The Northern Religion Centre is also located at Patiala. Patiala has long been a centre of trade and commerce but in recent years it is gradually developing into an industrial town by producing a wide range of goods. Escorts, Milk Food, Diesel Component Works (DCW) of the railways, Bakeman's Factory Area and Industrial Estate Sirhind Road are worth mentioning industrial units. Also, Patiala has the proud distinction of having one of the most prestigious army formation.