SHEOPUR

also called Sheopur Kalan town, northwestern Madhya Pradesh state, central India. The town and fort were founded in 1537 by Gaur Rajputs (a warrior caste) and served as capital of the former Sheopur princely state. A road junction and rail terminus, it is an important produce market known also for its lacquered woodwork; playing cards are also manufactured. Sheopur has a hospital and a college affiliated with Jiwaji University. Pop. (1981) 27,097.