Dhar was earlier known as Dhar Nagari in the ancient period and had enjoyed the privilege of being the capital city, in the ancient as well as the early medieval periods. Dhar has a population of 1.4 million and an area of 8,150 sq km.
Dhar District is known for its fine arts, painting, sculpture, music, and dance. There are 40 pilgrimage centers. The famous places are Mandav, the Darwazas, Royal Enclave (Jahaj Mahal), Hindola Mahal, Hoshang Shah's Tomb, Jami Masjid, and Bagh Caves. Shradha Paksha is a famous festival celebrated by the Hindus. Popular festivals of Muslims include Muharram, Id, and Miladunabi. The famous fair is
Ram Navami. Fagun Nach is a dance festival arranged by tribals on the occasion of Holi.
