13 interesting facts about Jamnagar, the “Jewel of Gujarat"

Jamnagar, located in the western Indian state of Gujarat, India, is renowned for housing one of India's largest conglomerates, founded by the Ambani family, particularly Dhirubhai Ambani. It is the fifth-largest city in Gujarat and is also fondly referred to as the “Jewel of Gujarat”. Here is a compilation of lesser-known facts about Jamnagar.

It was founded in 1540 by Jam Raval, a Jadeja Rajput leader. While on a hunting trip in the region, variously referred to as Kathiawar and Saurashtra, Raval’s hunting hounds were supposedly intimidated by hares that chased away the dogs. Impressed and deducing that men born on such land would be superior to others, he founded Nawanagar or New Town, which served as the capital of the eponymous princely state, which held sway for more than four centuries. In his honour, the name was later changed to Jamnagar. (Image: istock)

This is the city of cricket player Sir Ranjitsinhji, after whom the famed Ranji Trophy is named, and former ruler of Nawanagar, which later became Jamnagar. Famous Indian cricketer Ravindra Jadeja is also from here. (Image: istock)

Largest oil refinery complex
The city boasts one of the world's largest oil refining complexes, owned by Reliance Industries. This complex significantly contributes to India's refining capacity and serves as a hub of productivity. (Image: istock)

As per recent news update, Ambani family has facilitated the construction of 14 new temples within a sprawling temple complex in Jamnagar, Gujarat.These temples are an architectural wonder, and are adorned with intricately carved pillars, sculptures of different deities, and colourful fresco-style paintings. This initiative reflects the family's commitment to preserving Indian cultural heritage. (Image: Reliance Foundation)

Jamnagar is also home to the world's largest crude oil refinery, with a capacity to refine approximately 1.24 million barrels of crude oil per day. (Image: istock)

Mukesh Ambani, the chairman of Reliance Industries, resides in a lavish residence within Jamnagar, known for its architectural marvel and luxurious amenities.

The Ambanis have established the Jamnagar Special Economic Zone, comprising various industrial units and infrastructure projects, contributing significantly to the region's economic development. (Image: istock)

The presence of Reliance Industries in Jamnagar has led to increased employment opportunities, both directly within the refinery and indirectly in related industries, providing sustainable livelihoods to the people. (Image: istock)

Jamnagar has witnessed the proper development of social infrastructure, including schools, hospitals, and community centers, enhancing the overall quality of life for its residents. (Image: istock)

Reliance Industries has undertaken numerous sustainable practices in Jamnagar, reducing its ecological footprint and earning accolades for its commitment to environmental stewardship. (Image: istock)

The Jamnagar complex is renowned for its technological advancements in refining and petrochemical sectors, reflecting Reliance's substantial investment in research and development to enhance productivity and efficiency. (Image: istock)

Under the Ambanis' stewardship, Jamnagar has evolved into an integrated industrial township, featuring state-of-the-art architecture, logistics, and amenities that support a thriving industrial ecosystem. (Image: istock)

The site of the world's biggest wildlife showcase - the Green Zoological, Rescue, and Rehabilitation Kingdom - lies on the Dwarka-Jamnagar Road, about 300km from Ahmedabad. The zoo is built in Lalpur taluka of Jamnagar by Reliance Industries Limited. A few African lions and Royal Bengal tigers are there as a part of RIL zoo's rescue mission. (Image: istock)