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. (2001) 55,012.