Solapur District was ruled by various dynasties such as Andhrabhratyas, Chalukayas, Rashtrakutas, Yadavas, Bahamanis and many others from the historical period to pre British time. It is the fourth large district in Maharashtra in terms of land area and seventh large in terms of population. Solapur is a melting pot or a confluence point of Marathi, Telugu and Kannada languages and cultures. The district has many religious places like Shri. Siddheshwar temple in Solapur city. The “Nandi Dhwaja” procession on the day of Makar Sankranti is attended by millions of devotees. Pandharpur, the holiest place in Maharashtra, known as Dakshin Kashi with its “Vitthal-Rukhumai” temples on the banks of the Chandrabhaga River, is only 70 km from Solapur city. Akkalkot, just 38 km from Solapur is another holy place as it was the abode Shri. Akkalkot Swami Samarth. Similarly, the well known pilgrimage centre Tuljapur is 40 km away from Solapur city. Nannaj, 18 km from Solapur city is the habitat of an endangered avian species called ‘Maldhok’. During Indian independence movement, the people of Solapur enjoyed full freedom on 9, 10 and 11 May 1930. Freedom Fighters of Solapur hoisted the national flag on the Municipal Council Building on 6 Apr. 1930. However, this resulted in the executions of Shri Mallappa Dhanshetti, Shri Kurban Hussain, Shri Jagannath Shinde and Shri Kisan Sarda, who were hanged to death on 12 January 1931. For that reason, the city is being recognized as “The City of Martyrs''. As a mark of respect to these freedom fighters their statues have been installed in the heart of the city. In British India period, Solapur had famous textile industries. High quality Chaddars (Bedsheets or bed-covers) are made in Solapur, which have earned fame and reputation for the novel designs and durability. Solapur Chaddars and Towels are famous not only in India but also in other countries. Solapur city has been selected under the scheme of Smart cities, Govt. India due to its strategic geographical position, cultural heritage, textile industries, educational initiatives, sports activities, agricultural productivities and connectivities, etc. In order to change the features of the city, massive infrastructure developments and reorganization of the city components have been initiated in recent times. This will enable the city as new hubs in several traditional and advanced avenues.