Punjab, located in the northwestern part of India, is a region of immense historical and cultural significance. Known as the 'Granary of India,' Punjab is bordered by the Indian states of Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, and Jammu & Kashmir, as well as the international border with Pakistan. The state spans an area of about 50,362 square kilometers and is traversed by the fertile plains of the Punjab region, where five rivers – the Sutlej, Beas, Ravi, Chenab, and Jhelum – flow, giving the state its name (from 'Punj' meaning 'five' and 'ab' meaning 'waters'). The land here is primarily agricultural and is known for its green fields and robust cultivation of wheat, rice, and a variety of other crops. Punjab is also famous for its vibrant culture, reflected in its music, dance forms like Bhangra and Giddha, festivals, and richly flavored cuisine. The state capital is Chandigarh, a well-planned city known for its modernist architecture and urban design, while other major cities include Ludhiana, Amritsar, and Jalandhar. Amritsar is home to the Golden Temple, the spiritual and cultural center for the Sikh religion.
