Nandarkha

Nandarkha is a village situated in the Navsari district of the Indian state of Gujarat. It is positioned in the southwestern region of the Navsari district, lying between the towns of Bilimora and Chikhli.

Nandarkha village boasts a range of essential facilities, catering to the needs of its residents. Among these are primary schools, anganwadi centers, milk dairies, village hall, cricket grounds and a panchayatghar, all strategically established to support and enhance the well-being of the community.

Demographics, languages, and religion
In the 2011 Indian census, the region's population was documented to be 3,112 individuals. According to the same census data, males accounted for 51% of the total population, while females constituted 49%, indicating a slight disparity in gender distribution.

In the village of Nandarkha, religious diversity flourishes, with Hindus constituting the majority at 92.66% of the population, while Muslims account for 7.34%. The coexistence between these communities is evident through the presence of a mosque alongside several Hindu temples. The Koli Patel community stands as the largest group, representing over 90% of the village's inhabitants.

A considerable number of Nandarkha's residents have chosen to establish new lives in countries such as the United States of America, Canada, New Zealand, the United Arab Emirates, and the United Kingdom. This diaspora showcases the village's international connections and the widespread dispersion of its inhabitants to diverse regions around the globe.

The people of Nandarkha predominantly speak Gujarati, including the Muslim community in the village, who also use Gujarati as their mother tongue.

Within the close-knit Hindu Koli Patel community of Nandarkha village, Sureshji Vyas holds the esteemed position of the revered Village Priest. His esteemed role plays a significant part in the spiritual and cultural life of the community.

Occupation
The livelihood of the village inhabitants predominantly revolves around three main occupations: Agriculture, Public Service, and Animal husbandry. Notably, a significant portion of the village population is engaged in the noble profession of teaching.

Divisions
Nandarkha comprises several distinct divisions:
 * Patel Faliyu
 * Vachalu Faliyu
 * Mandir Faliyu
 * Ghanchiwad Faliyu
 * Road Moholla
 * Vanzari Faliyu
 * Nishal Faliyu
 * Untadi Faliyu
 * Mahyavanshi moholla
 * Pramukh Khushboo Society

Geography
Nandarkha has an average elevation of 20 m above sea level.

Climate
The weather is sunny from September to May, rainy from June to August. The average maximum and minimum temperatures are 40 °C (104 °F) and 18 °C (64 °F) respectively. The average annual rainfall is 122 cm.

Festival
Nandarkha celebrates various festivals with vibrant enthusiasm throughout the year. Among the prominent festivities is Navratri, during which the traditional dance form of garba is performed with different styles and steps, including dodhiyu, simple five, simple seven, popatiyu, tran taali, and many more. Local competitions add to the festive spirit, making Navratri a joyous occasion for the community.

Another significant festival is Makar Sankranti, where the skies of Nandarkha come alive with colorful kites flown by the locals. This festival is also marked by the traditional dish of Umbadiyu, a delectable mix of various vegetables, cherished by the South Gujarati people on this auspicious day.

Apart from Navratri and Makar Sankranti, Nandarkha embraces a variety of other celebrations, such as Diwali, Holi, Janmashtami, Bestu Varas, Ganesh Chaturthi, and many more, each adding its unique charm and cultural significance to the village's festivities. These diverse celebrations showcase the rich cultural heritage and communal spirit of the people in Nandarkha.

Education

 * Prathmik Vidhyamadir Nandarkha, established in 1922.
 * Untadi Faliya Prathmik Shala.

Hospitals

 * Olive Hospital
 * Hasu Kishor Ayurvedic Panchkarm Hospital

Religious Places

 * Maa Bhavani Temple
 * Veerbai Maa Temple
 * Shree Khatkhat Dham Hanumanji Mandir
 * Jalaram Bapa Temple
 * Bhoot Bapji Temple
 * Minara Masjid

Transport
The nearest local airport is at Surat, 50 km north of Bilimora, with the nearest international airport being at Mumbai, 220 km to the south. Nandarkha lies on the Mumbai-Delhi railway link.

Industry
BIPICO Industries (Tools) Pvt. Ltd. was founded in 1974 in Nandarkha. Renowned as a prominent manufacturer and exporter, BIPICO specializes in a wide range of saws and cutting tools, making it a distinguished and highly-regarded brand in both the domestic and international markets.