Kalahandi, in western Odisha, is a district known for agriculture and forests. It has two subdivisions—Bhawanipatna and Dharamgarh—and 13 blocks, 310 Gram Panchayats and about 2,251 villages. Odia is the main language, while several tribal languages are also spoken. Hinduism is predominant, along with Christianity, Islam and indigenous faiths. Nuakhai, Chhatar Jatra, Dussehra and tribal festivals are celebrated with devotion. Folk traditions include Ghumura, Dalkhai, Danda Nata and folk songs. Paddy is the principal crop, along with pulses, cotton, maize and oilseeds. The Tel and Hati rivers and hills such as Karlapat enrich the landscape. Kondh, Gond and other tribal communities are prominent. People are simple and community-oriented. Agriculture and forest-based livelihoods remain important, though economic conditions vary. Education and health services have improved, but rural areas still face challenges Irrigation includes dams, canals and lift projects. Tourist attractions include Maa Manikeswari Temple, Karlapat, Phurlijharan and Asurgarh. Kalahandi University supports education.