History :
Raipur is capital of Chhattisgarh. It was formerly a part of Madhya Pradesh before the state of Chhattisgarh was formed on November 1, 2000. When Raipur was a part of Madhya Pradesh, it was the second major commercial centre in Madhya Pradesh after Indore. Traditionally, Raipur's economy has been based on agricultural-processing and saw-milling. The city is located centrally in the state of Chhattisgarh, and now serves as a regional hub for trade and commerce for a variety of local agricultural and forest products.

Culture :
The Culture prevailing in Raipur district is that of Chhattisgarh. 'Chhattisgarhi' is the local language that most of the people in this area love to converse in. Chhattisgarh culture in itself is very rich and interesting. The people are known for their modesty, kindness and adjusting nature. They are fond of variety in their attire, entertainment and lifestyle. This culture has unique styles of music and dance. Raut Nacha, Dewar Nacha, Panthi & Soowa, Padki and Pandwani are some of musical styles and dance dramas. Pandwani is a famous musical way of singing Mahabharata in this region. This particular music style has been brought into lime light by well known artist Teejan Bai and young Ritu Verma. Colourful dresses and a variety of ornaments are worn by women and men in this part of the country.
 

Business Opportunities in Chhatisgarh :

Key Industries :
The economy of Chhattisgarh is largely natural resource driven and it leverages the state's rich mineral resources. The key sectors where Chhattisgarh has a competitive advantage include cement, mining, steel, aluminium and power.

Export Potential of Chhattisgarh
 

• Handcrafted wood, iron and steel, terra cotta, bell metal and handloom items are major attractions in the international market.

• Chhattisgarh is the only state offering quality fabric in Tassar Silk / Kosa, which has good export potential in the UK, France, Switzerland, Norway, the USA, Canada, Australia, South Africa and Japan.

• The state has vast potential for exporting processed foods, organically grown cereals, herbal and medicinal products.

• Agricultural products such as rice (presently exported in huge quantities to neighboring countries) derivatives and intermediates of rice products, processed foods and biodiesel have huge potential for exports.

• Mineral-based products including steel and pig iron, steel castings, forging and equipment, structural steel, cement and silico-mangnese are also exported from Chhattisgarh.

Investment :
The Reserve Bank of India report, 2007 reveals that in 2006-07, 13 projects worth $580 million were sanctioned in Chhattisgarh. This contributes to 0.8% of the total investments in India. The state has attracted investment proposals worth $4.87 billion till October, 2007. One of the largest investors in the state is Vedanta Group. Along with its existing investment, Vedanta plans to invest another USD 2.44 billion for setting up a large aluminium plant in Chhattisgarh. The group has also signed MoUs with five private cement and steel companies worth USD 1.21 billion. The Electricity Board of Chhattisgarh is planning to set up a 1,200 MW power plant at Korba worth USD 2.44 billion.

Source: Projects Today database, June 2004

Climate :
Raipur has a tropical wet and dry climate; temperatures remain moderate throughout the year, except from March to June, which can be extremely hot. The city receives about 1,300 millimeters (51 in) of rain, mostly in the monsoon season from late June to early October. Winters last from November to January and are mild, although lows can fall to 5 °C (41 °F).
It has a mixed climate which is more towards hotter side; summers are extremely hot and at times the mercury may rise up to 47°C.

Food :
Chhattisgarh has many peculiar dishes which are considered to be a part of the culture. The cuisine in Chhattisgarh is special and is known for its taste. Plenty of flavors, spices and aroma are used in local dishes. Chutneys and pickles form an essential ingredient of Chhattisgarh cuisine. People here are especially fond of namkeens and sweets. Kusli, cashew burfi, jalebi, lavang lata, khurma, sabudana ki khichadi, shikanji and moong dal ka halwa are favorite among the locals. Tikhur barfi which is easily available and abundantly grown here is the most loved dish of this region.

Nagar Ghadi : This is a Singing Clock constructed by Raipur Development Authority in 1995. It sings melodius Tunes of Chhattisgarhi folk music every hour before hourly bell chime. It has got two awards "Limca book of Records" & "India Book of Records". This clock is one of the Unique kinds of clock due to its Folk Music.

Gandhi Udyaan : One of the oldest parks of Raipur. Gandhi Udyaan is situated next to the Chief Minister's residence.

Budha Lake : Literally meaning aged (budha), Budha Lake is the largest lake in the city. Its beauty is enhanced by an island, laced with green trees and gardens, situated in the middle of the lake. It has got a beautiful statue of Swami Vivekananda which is located at the center of the lake.

Dudhadari Temple : Situated near the Burha Talab, stands the 500-year-old Dudhadari Temple, which has elaborate carvings. The temple is dedicated to the Hindu god Ram.

The Banjari Mata Mandir : It is a famous temple which was established by Shree Harish Joshi. Folklore has it that Mr. Joshi found a place where a stone looked like an idol of Banjari Mata. On discovering the idol, he started worshipping it and hence attracting public attention. Since then the place has been converted into a temple.

Shadani Darbar : Named after the saint Shri Shadaramji Saheb, is a popular pilgrimage spot for Hindus. It is located about ten kilometers from Raipur railway station and only 4 kilometers from the Airport, on the Dhamtari road. Shadani Darbar, spread over 12 acres (49,000 m2) of land, has a big hall where Dhuni Saheb is kept. Beautifully engraved images of gods and avatars (incarnations) can be seen on either sides of the wall. Dukh bhanjan Dhuni is performed every day. Other highlights are musical fountains with religious idols and statues.

Mahant Ghasi Das Memorial Museum : A large collection of ancient inscriptions, images, coins, sculptures of historical importance are displayed in this museum.

Shaheed Smarak Complex : An exceptionally conceptualized architectural marvel by Architect Prasanna Kothari - a memorial to freedom fighters, is located in the heart of the city. It comprises of a huge auditorium, library, museum and an art gallery.

Nandanvan Garden : Developed by the wildlife division of the Raipur Forest Department, is located about 15 km from Raipur, on the banks of the Kharun River, in the western boundary of the city. It is noted for its natural beauty.