Historical region, central India.
Located north of Hyderabad , Berar emerged as a distinct political entity after the incursions of Muslim armies in the 13th century AD. It formed part of several Muslim kingdoms until, on the breakup of the Mughal empire, it fell to the ruler of Hyderabad. Coming under British control in 1853, it was subsequently assigned to various provinces; it has been part of Maharashtra state since 1960. The region includes a rich cotton-growing area in the Purna River basin.