city, eastern Karnataka (Karnātaka) state, southern India. It contains a palace-citadel (1294) and fort (c. 1300) built on a hill 290 feet (88 metres) above the surrounding plain. In 1489 Raichur became the first capital of the independent kingdom of Bijapur. It is now a commercial centre on the Central Railway; products include oilseeds, cotton, and soap. Its college of commerce and Laxmi Venkatesh Desai College are affiliated with Karnatak University in Dharwar. A thermal power plant is nearby. Pop. (2001) 207,421.