GORAKHPUR

town, southeastern Uttar Pradesh state, northern India. It lies along the Rapti River, at the junction of several roads and rail lines. Embankments built along the river protect the town from flooding. Gorakhpur was founded about 1400 and named for a Hindu saint. Under the ruler Akbar, it was an important Muslim garrison town and division headquarters. The British East India Company acquired the city and surrounding territory in 1801; it served as the recruitment centre of Gurkhas for the army. It was damaged by an earthquake in 1934. Gorakhpur is now a centre of industry and trade in agricultural products. Industries include textiles, printing, sugar milling, railroad maintenance, and manufacturing. Gorakhpur University (1956) has affiliated colleges throughout the state. The city has several museums. Pop. (1991 prelim.) 489,850.