Bathinda, located in the southwestern part of Punjab, India, is a historical city reputed for its cultural heritage and vibrant past. Known for its numerous forts and places of historical significance, Bathinda is home to the Qila Mubarak, a huge and impressive fort where Razia Sultan, the first female Sultan of Delhi, was reportedly imprisoned. The city has been a witness to various episodes from different eras, including the invasion by Alexander the Great and more recent Sikh history. Apart from history, Bathinda is an important industrial city with a strong presence in the agriculture and energy sectors due to its thermal power plants and a fertilizer plant. The region is also known for food production, particularly cotton, which has earned it the nickname 'Cotton Belt of India.' The city's urban planning is marked by well-laid-out roads, parks, and is continually being modernized. Additionally, Bathinda's artificial lakes provide scenic escapes within the urban environment. With its blend of rich history, cultural ethos, and modern growth, Bathinda is an important city both culturally and economically in Punjab.