TOPONYMY
The name Moradabad originates from Prince Murad Baksh, the son of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. In 1625 CE, the region was known as Chaupala and served as a modest settlement near the banks of the Ramganga River. When Murad Baksh was appointed as the governor of the area, he ordered the establishment of a new city. In his honor, the town was renamed Moradabad. The name combines “Morad” (a variation of Murad) with the Persian suffix “-abad,” meaning “inhabited place” or “city.”
Moradabad’s location along key trade routes allowed it to develop rapidly under Mughal patronage. The city attracted artisans, traders, and settlers, evolving from a military outpost into a significant urban center. Over time, it gained recognition for its brass and metalware craftsmanship, further embedding its identity in economic and cultural history.
The name remains a testament to its Mughal foundations. Unlike names that evolved organically over centuries, Moradabad’s toponym is a direct result of royal intervention and administrative planning. Today, the city’s name not only reflects its historical lineage but also highlights the deliberate act of urban establishment during the height of Mughal rule.
HISTORY
Moradabad’s recorded history began in the early 17th century during the Mughal era. Before that, the area was a small settlement known as Chaupala, located near the Ramganga River. In 1625 CE, Mughal prince Murad Baksh, son of Emperor Shah Jahan, was appointed governor of the region. He founded a new city here, naming it Moradabad after himself. The Mughal administration developed the city as a strategic center for governance and trade.
Due to its location near major trade routes, Moradabad grew quickly. The city became known for attracting skilled metalworkers, especially during the later Mughal and early colonial periods. During the 18th century, as Mughal authority weakened, Moradabad saw intermittent control by regional powers until it came under British rule after the Battle of Buxar in 1764. By the early 19th century, the British formally established Moradabad as a district in the North-Western Provinces.
The city played a minor role in the Revolt of 1857 but remained administratively important throughout colonial rule. The British encouraged its brassware industry, which became a major export product. After independence in 1947, Moradabad continued to grow as an industrial hub.
Today, Moradabad is often referred to as the “Brass City of India.” Its historical development reflects a pattern of strategic settlement, industrial specialization, and sustained urban growth shaped by both Mughal and colonial influences. The city’s history remains closely tied to its identity as a center of craftsmanship and trade.
GEOGRAPHY
Moradabad lies in the western part of Uttar Pradesh, positioned between 28.83°N latitude and 78.78°E longitude. It forms part of the upper Ganga-Yamuna Doab and rests on the banks of the Ramganga River, a tributary of the Ganges. The city stands at an average elevation of 198 meters above sea level and spans primarily alluvial plains, making the soil fertile and suitable for agriculture.
The district shares its boundaries with Bijnor in the north, Rampur in the east, Amroha in the west, and Sambhal in the south. Its location ensures access to major road and rail networks, linking it to Delhi and other regional centers. The terrain remains largely flat with seasonal streams and canals supporting irrigation. Moradabad experiences a subtropical climate, with hot summers, a monsoon season from June to September, and cool winters. This geographic setting supports both urban growth and rural livelihoods.
CLIMATE
Moradabad experiences a humid subtropical climate, typical of the northern plains of India. Summers begin in March and continue until June, with temperatures often rising above 40°C in peak months. Hot and dry winds, known as loo, prevail during this period. The monsoon season starts in late June and lasts until September, bringing the majority of the region’s annual rainfall, which averages around 1,000 mm.
The climate turns cooler from October onward. Winters, spanning December to February, remain cold and dry, with temperatures occasionally dropping below 5°C. Fog is common during early mornings in winter. The transition months—March and October—bring moderate temperatures and relatively pleasant conditions.
This seasonal variation influences agricultural cycles and urban activity patterns. The combination of high summer temperatures and concentrated rainfall makes water management crucial for both farming and city infrastructure. Moradabad’s climate plays a direct role in shaping its lifestyle and economy.
FLORA & FAUNA
Moradabad’s flora and fauna reflect the typical ecosystem of the fertile Gangetic plains. The district supports a mix of natural vegetation and cultivated land. Common tree species include neem, mango, peepal, banyan, and eucalyptus. Along canal banks and rural edges, bamboo and shisham trees are also visible. Agricultural fields dominate the landscape, with wheat, sugarcane, and rice being the major crops.
The fauna mainly consists of species adapted to human-influenced habitats. Common mammals include jackals, hares, and mongooses. Reptiles such as snakes and lizards are frequently observed in rural and semi-urban areas. Birds like parakeets, mynas, pigeons, crows, and egrets are abundant, while peacocks are occasionally spotted near forested patches.
Seasonal migration of birds occurs during winter, especially near water bodies. Though urbanization has reduced wildlife habitats, small pockets of biodiversity still exist around riverbanks, fields, and village outskirts, sustaining local ecological balance.
ECONOMY
Moradabad’s economy functions as a blend of traditional craftsmanship, industrial production, and agriculture. The city is globally known for its brassware industry, earning it the title “Brass City of India.” Local artisans produce handcrafted items such as utensils, decorative pieces, and religious artifacts, which are exported to Europe, the Middle East, and the United States. This sector provides direct and indirect employment to a large section of the population.
Alongside brassware, other metal industries, including aluminum and ironworks, also contribute to industrial output. Small and medium enterprises manufacture locks, handicrafts, and glassware. Moradabad houses a dedicated Export Promotion Industrial Park (EPIP) and a Special Economic Zone (SEZ), which support manufacturing and international trade.
Moradabad, known as the “Brass City” or Peetal Nagri, is globally renowned for its handcrafted brassware. Its metal craft industry exports to the US, UK, Canada, Germany, the Middle East, and Asia. The city’s artisans work with brass, iron, and aluminum using advanced techniques like electroplating, lacquering, and powder coating. Brassware from Moradabad holds a Geographical Indication (GI) tag under the name Moradabad Metal Craft. Under the Uttar Pradesh government’s One District One Product (ODOP) programme, Moradabad’s brass handicrafts are officially recognized and promoted, supporting artisans and boosting local employment through training and global market access.
Agriculture remains vital in rural areas, with wheat, rice, sugarcane, and pulses as major crops. Irrigation from canals and tubewells supports year-round farming. The service sector, including retail, banking, and education, continues to grow within the urban limits.
The city’s economy benefits from its strategic location and connectivity to Delhi and other major markets. Moradabad’s economic profile reflects a strong integration of traditional skills with evolving industrial and commercial infrastructure.
ADMINISTRATION
Moradabad functions as the administrative headquarters of Moradabad district and division in Uttar Pradesh. A District Magistrate (DM), an officer from the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), heads the district administration. The DM oversees law and order, revenue collection, and development programs. The Superintendent of Police (SP), from the Indian Police Service (IPS), manages policing and public safety.
The district is divided into several tehsils, including Moradabad, Thakurdwara, and Bilari, each managed by a Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM). Urban governance is handled by the Moradabad Municipal Corporation, which manages civic amenities such as water supply, sanitation, and solid waste management. Elected representatives, including the Mayor and ward councilors, work alongside administrative officials.
At the rural level, Panchayati Raj institutions manage local governance. Various state and central government departments operate within the district to implement welfare schemes. The administrative setup ensures delivery of public services, coordination of law enforcement, and execution of development projects.
CIVIC ADMINISTRATION
Moradabad’s civic administration is managed by the Moradabad Municipal Corporation (MMC), responsible for the city’s urban governance. The corporation oversees essential public services, including water supply, sewage management, waste collection, road maintenance, and street lighting. It also handles urban planning, property tax collection, and enforcement of building regulations.
An elected Mayor heads the MMC, supported by ward councilors representing various city wards. The Municipal Commissioner, a senior bureaucrat, executes policies and supervises daily operations. The corporation works in coordination with departments like Public Works, Jal Nigam, and the Electricity Board to deliver services efficiently.
Sanitation and waste disposal remain high priorities, with efforts to modernize waste management systems. MMC also engages in health, education, and environmental initiatives at the city level. The civic administration aims to maintain infrastructure, respond to public grievances, and improve urban living standards through structured planning and service delivery.
POLICE ADMINISTRATION
Moradabad’s police administration operates under the supervision of the Superintendent of Police (SP), an officer from the Indian Police Service (IPS). The SP manages law enforcement, crime prevention, and public safety across the district. The city is divided into multiple police circles and stations, each headed by a Circle Officer (CO) or Station House Officer (SHO).
Police personnel conduct regular patrols, traffic regulation, and crowd control during festivals or public events. The department also maintains a women’s helpline and cybercrime cell. Coordination with civic authorities ensures effective handling of emergencies and law-and-order situations.
JUDICIAL INSTITUTIONS
Moradabad hosts a well-established judicial infrastructure under the jurisdiction of the Allahabad High Court. The District and Sessions Court is the principal judicial body, handling civil, criminal, and family matters. A District Judge heads the court, supported by Additional District Judges and Civil Judges.
Lower courts, including Magistrate Courts and tribunals, function under the district judiciary to resolve disputes at various levels. The judiciary ensures timely delivery of justice and upholds legal processes. Legal aid services operate within the court premises to assist underprivileged litigants, ensuring access to justice for all residents.
CENTRAL GOVERNMENT OFFICES
Moradabad houses several central government offices that support administrative and public service functions. Key establishments include the Income Tax Department, Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO), and the Central Excise and Customs Office. These offices handle taxation, compliance, and employee welfare services.
The Postal Department manages mail services and financial products through its head post office and branch offices. Railways also maintain a zonal office to oversee operations and infrastructure. These institutions work in coordination with state authorities to implement national policies and ensure effective delivery of central services to the public.
POLITICS
Moradabad plays an active role in both state and national politics. It falls under the Moradabad Lok Sabha constituency, which elects a Member of Parliament (MP) to the lower house. The city is also divided into multiple Vidhan Sabha constituencies, each represented by a Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) in the Uttar Pradesh State Assembly.
Major political parties in the region include the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Samajwadi Party (SP), Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), and Indian National Congress (INC). Electoral contests remain competitive, with issues such as infrastructure, employment, law and order, and communal harmony shaping voter preferences.
The District Election Office manages the conduct of elections, voter registration, and awareness campaigns. Political activity remains high during election seasons, with public rallies, door-to-door campaigns, and media outreach. Moradabad’s political landscape reflects the broader dynamics of western Uttar Pradesh, with active participation from both urban and rural voters.
PUBLIC UTILITIES
Moradabad provides essential public utilities through coordinated efforts of municipal and state agencies. The Moradabad Municipal Corporation manages water supply, sanitation, street lighting, and waste collection within the city. It sources drinking water from the Ramganga River and underground borewells, treating it before distribution through a piped network.
The Uttar Pradesh Power Corporation Limited (UPPCL) supplies electricity to residential, commercial, and industrial consumers. Maintenance teams address outages and infrastructure upgrades. Public Health Engineering Department oversees drainage and sewage systems, especially in urban areas.
The city also maintains public toilets, community halls, and cremation grounds. Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) and private telecom companies provide broadband and mobile services. Government and private agencies offer LPG connections, postal services, and banking access.
Public utility services in Moradabad continue to expand in response to population growth, with digital platforms improving grievance redressal and service delivery.
TRANSPORT
Moradabad connects efficiently by road and rail. National Highway 9 links it to Delhi and Lucknow, while Moradabad Junction serves as a major railway hub. Local transport includes buses, auto-rickshaws, and e-rickshaws, ensuring daily commuting across urban and suburban areas.
DEMOGRAPHICS
According to the 2011 Census, Moradabad district recorded a population of approximately 4.77 million. The sex ratio stood at 903 females per 1,000 males, while the child sex ratio was 905. The literacy rate reached 58.67%, with male literacy at 66.97% and female literacy at 49.18%.
The population is predominantly rural, though urban areas like Moradabad city have seen consistent growth due to industrial development. Hindi is the official language, while Urdu is widely spoken, especially in urban pockets. The district has a diverse religious composition, with significant Hindu and Muslim populations.
Most residents engage in agriculture, small-scale industries, or the brassware trade. The working population includes both organized and informal sector workers. Population density and urban expansion continue to shape infrastructure and service demands. Demographic trends in Moradabad reflect both traditional livelihoods and ongoing urbanization influenced by economic opportunities.
ARCHITECTURE
Moradabad’s architecture reflects a blend of Mughal, colonial, and contemporary styles. Historic structures include mosques, havelis, and gateways that date back to the Mughal period. The Jama Masjid, built in traditional Islamic style with domes and minarets, stands as a prominent example. Narrow lanes in older parts of the city feature intricately carved wooden balconies and traditional courtyards.
During British rule, administrative and railway buildings introduced colonial elements such as arched windows, pillared verandas, and high ceilings. The Moradabad railway station retains many of these features.
In recent decades, commercial growth has led to the development of modern concrete structures, shopping complexes, and residential colonies. Government buildings, educational institutions, and healthcare facilities now follow functional, utilitarian designs.
Despite rapid urbanization, parts of the city preserve their architectural heritage. Restoration efforts and adaptive reuse of old buildings remain limited but ongoing in some areas, especially around heritage zones.
CULTURE
Moradabad’s culture reflects a confluence of Hindu and Muslim traditions shaped by centuries of coexistence. The city is known for its craftsmanship, particularly brassware, which remains both an economic activity and a cultural identifier. Local artisans pass down skills through generations, contributing to the district’s cultural continuity.
Festivals such as Diwali, Eid, Holi, and Muharram are celebrated with equal enthusiasm across communities. Cultural life includes qawwali performances, folk music, and poetry gatherings that highlight the city’s literary interests. Urdu and Hindi literature have deep roots in the region, supported by local writers and educational institutions.
Traditional attire includes salwar-kameez, kurta-pajama, and sarees, though urban fashion is increasingly modern. Food culture blends Mughlai and North Indian cuisines, with kebabs, biryani, and sweets like revdi and gajak being popular.
Artisans, poets, and performers contribute to a cultural environment where tradition and modernity coexist. Moradabad continues to uphold its artistic legacy while adapting to contemporary influences.
TRADITIONAL OUTFIT
Traditional attire in Moradabad reflects the cultural diversity of its population. Men commonly wear kurta-pajama or sherwani during festivals and formal occasions, while women wear sarees, salwar-kameez, or lehenga-choli with regional embroidery. Muslim women often wear burqas or hijabs in public spaces.
Fabrics like cotton, silk, and georgette remain popular, especially in festive wear. Local markets offer garments with zari, zardozi, and hand-embroidered designs. Though western clothing has become common among the youth, traditional outfits continue to hold importance in daily life, religious events, and weddings.
LANGUAGE & POETRY
Hindi serves as the official language of Moradabad, while Urdu holds strong cultural and literary significance, especially in urban areas. Both languages are widely spoken and understood across communities. English is used in education, administration, and formal communication, particularly in schools and government offices.
Moradabad has a rich tradition of poetry, with Urdu poetry playing a central role in the city’s cultural life. Mushairas (poetry gatherings) are held regularly, drawing local poets and enthusiasts. Themes often reflect social issues, love, spirituality, and daily life.
The city has produced several poets and writers who contributed to both Hindi and Urdu literature. Educational institutions and literary societies promote reading and writing through events and competitions. Street performances and cultural festivals often include poetic recitations, making poetry an accessible and respected art form.
Language and poetry in Moradabad continue to bridge tradition and contemporary expression in daily communication and artistic practice.
CUISINE
Moradabad’s cuisine reflects a mix of North Indian and Mughlai influences. The city is known for its spicy Moradabadi dal, a popular street food made from yellow moong dal and served with lemon and green chilies. Non-vegetarian dishes like kebabs, biryani, and nihari are widely consumed, especially during festivals and special occasions.
Sweets such as revdi, gajak, and balushahi remain local favorites, particularly in winter. Street vendors and traditional eateries serve a variety of snacks, including kachori, samosa, and chaat. The cuisine supports both everyday meals and festive gatherings.
FESTIVALS
Moradabad observes a wide range of festivals celebrated by its diverse communities. Major Hindu festivals like Diwali, Holi, and Navratri witness city-wide participation, marked by rituals, decorations, and public events. Muslim festivals such as Eid-ul-Fitr, Eid-ul-Adha, and Muharram are also celebrated with equal significance.
The city hosts local fairs and religious gatherings that draw large crowds. Cultural programs, qawwali nights, and poetry recitations often accompany these festivals. Public spaces, markets, and religious sites become focal points during celebrations, reflecting Moradabad’s communal harmony and active cultural calendar throughout the year.
DANCE, DRAMA & MUSIC
Moradabad supports a diverse range of performing arts rooted in regional and cultural traditions. Folk dances such as Rasiya and Nautanki remain part of rural festivities and community functions. These performances often include storytelling elements and local themes, combining music, dance, and dialogue.
Urdu mushairas and qawwali performances are common in urban settings, reflecting the city’s strong connection to literary and devotional music. Religious events, especially during Islamic and Hindu festivals, frequently feature live music and dramatic reenactments.
Local schools and cultural organizations conduct annual events that promote classical and folk music, drama competitions, and dance recitals. Musical instruments such as harmonium, tabla, and dholak remain in use for both traditional and modern compositions.
Though modern entertainment has influenced younger audiences, Moradabad continues to value its cultural practices through stage performances, street plays, and musical gatherings held during festivals and public celebrations.
REGIONAL SPECIALITY
Moradabad is widely recognized for its brassware industry, which stands as the region’s defining speciality. Local artisans produce a range of handcrafted items including utensils, home décor, religious artifacts, and gift articles. The craftsmanship involves techniques like engraving, embossing, and polishing, which have been passed down through generations.
The city’s brass products are in high demand both in domestic and international markets, particularly in Europe, the Middle East, and the United States. Moradabad hosts an Export Promotion Industrial Park (EPIP) and a Special Economic Zone (SEZ) dedicated to supporting metalware manufacturing and trade.
In addition to brassware, the region is also known for its Moradabadi dal, a popular street food that has become part of the city’s culinary identity. Together, brass craftsmanship and this unique culinary offering define Moradabad’s regional character, contributing to its economic and cultural significance in Uttar Pradesh.
QUALITY OF LIFE
Moradabad offers a moderate quality of life shaped by its industrial base, growing infrastructure, and cultural diversity. The city provides access to essential public services such as healthcare, education, electricity, water supply, and sanitation through coordinated efforts of municipal and state bodies.
Housing options vary from traditional homes in older localities to modern apartments in expanding urban areas. Local markets, public parks, and religious spaces support community interaction. Public transport, including buses and e-rickshaws, ensures mobility within city limits.
Air quality and traffic congestion present occasional challenges, especially in industrial zones. Healthcare facilities range from government hospitals to private clinics and nursing homes. Educational institutions cater to both Hindi and English medium students, with growing interest in technical and vocational training.
Overall, Moradabad maintains a balance between traditional living and urban development, with continuous improvements aimed at enhancing livability for its residents across economic and social segments.
EDUCATION
Moradabad has a growing educational infrastructure that serves both urban and rural populations. The city hosts a mix of government and private institutions offering primary to higher secondary education in Hindi and English mediums. Schools affiliated with CBSE, ICSE, and the Uttar Pradesh Board operate across the district.
Higher education is available through colleges offering undergraduate and postgraduate courses in arts, science, commerce, engineering, and management. Teerthanker Mahaveer University is a prominent private university in Moradabad, offering professional courses in medicine, law, engineering, and other fields.
Vocational training centers and ITIs support skill development in trades such as electronics, metalwork, and computer applications. Coaching centers also prepare students for competitive exams.
Despite challenges in rural access and quality, efforts continue to improve educational outcomes through digital initiatives, mid-day meal schemes, and teacher training programs. Education remains a key focus area in the district’s development plans.
MEDIA
Moradabad has a functioning media network that includes print, electronic, and digital platforms. Leading Hindi newspapers like Dainik Jagran, Amar Ujala, and Hindustan circulate widely in the district. Local news channels and FM radio stations provide regional updates and entertainment.
Several digital news portals and social media platforms cover local developments, political updates, and cultural events. Government communication often uses local media for public awareness campaigns. Press clubs and journalist associations operate actively in the city, supporting professional reporting. Media in Moradabad plays a key role in informing and engaging the public.
SPORTS
Moradabad promotes sports through school programs, local clubs, and public facilities. Cricket remains the most popular sport, with matches organized at community grounds and stadiums. Football, kabaddi, and athletics also attract participation, especially in schools and rural areas.
The city hosts district-level tournaments and coaching camps to support talent development. The District Sports Office manages infrastructure and coordinates events in collaboration with educational institutions. Indoor games like badminton and table tennis have dedicated spaces in clubs and gymnasiums. Sports activities in Moradabad continue to expand with growing interest and institutional support.
NOTABLE INDIVIDUALS
Moradabad has produced several notable individuals who have contributed to politics, arts, literature, and public service. Begum Akhtar Raza, also known as Akhtari Bai Faizabadi, was a celebrated classical singer associated with the city. In the field of politics, Rafiq Zakaria and his son Fareed Zakaria, a well-known journalist and author, have roots linked to Moradabad.
Syed Ahmed Khan, a prominent 19th-century educationist and reformer, also had associations with the region. The city has given rise to several Urdu poets and writers who have contributed to regional and national literature.
In sports, Moradabad has seen participation in athletics and cricket at the state level. The brassware industry has also produced respected entrepreneurs and artisans recognized for preserving traditional craftsmanship.
These individuals reflect the district’s contribution to cultural, educational, and professional domains, shaping Moradabad’s identity beyond its geographical and economic significance.
HISTORICAL PLACES
Moradabad houses several historical sites that reflect its Mughal and colonial legacy. The Jama Masjid, built during the reign of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, stands as a major architectural landmark. It features traditional Islamic design elements such as domes, arches, and minarets. The mosque remains active and continues to attract both worshippers and visitors.
Raza Library, located nearby, preserves rare manuscripts, historical documents, and books in Arabic, Persian, and Urdu. Though not as widely known, it serves as a resource for scholars studying Islamic and Mughal history.
The Moradabad Fort, though largely in ruins, represents the early foundations of the city established by Prince Murad Baksh in the 17th century. Some remains and nearby structures still reflect the original planning of the settlement.
Colonial-era buildings such as the old railway station and administrative offices showcase British architectural influence. These sites contribute to Moradabad’s layered historical identity and offer insights into its urban and cultural evolution.