Churulia

History

It is the birthplace of Bengali poet Kazi Nazrul Islam, and the resting place of his wife Pramila Devi. Many of the manuscripts, medallions and other belongings of the poet are preserved at Nazrul Academy in the village. Nearby, there is a college bearing the poet's name. A weeklong festival is held every year to celebrate the poet's birth anniversary. It is attended by leading cultural and literary figures from both India and Bangladesh. Nazrul Academy was established in 1958.

It is believed that there was a fort at Churulia in olden days. It fell to Sher Khan, the Afghan chieftain in the 16th century. A mound in the village is believed to contain the ruins of the fort.

During the Muslim rule a mosque was built at Churulia. It is a good example of Islamic architecture.

Geography

Churulia is located at 23.78°N 87.08°E / 23.78; 87.08. It has an average elevation of 94 metres (311 feet).

Churulia is located on the south bank of Ajay River.

Asansol is composed of undulating latterite region. This area lies between two mighty rivers – the Damodar and the Ajay. They flow almost parallel to each other in the region – the average distance between the two rivers is around 30 km. For ages the area was heavily forested and infested with plunderers and marauders. The discovery of coal led to industrialisation of the area and most of the forests have been cleared.

Demographics

As per 2011 Census of India Churulia had a total population of 8,173 of which 4,203 (51%) were males and 3,970 (49%) were females. Population below 6 years was 1,286. The total number of literates in Churulia was 4,470 (64.70% of the population over 6 years).

Economy

Churulia is situated in the heart of Raniganj Coalfield, one of India's coal mining areas.

Transport

There are two minibus routes serving Churulia – one from Churulia to Asansol via Kalla and Domahani, and other from Churulia (Ajay Ghat) to Chittaranjan via Asansol and Chandrachur.