town, north-central Madhya Pradesh state, central India. It takes its name from Dantavakra, a mythological demon ruler of the area. Datia is a major road and rail junction and conducts a heavy trade in grain and cotton goods. Sorghum, corn (maize), wheat, and legumes are the chief crops grown in the region. Surrounded by a stone wall, Datia was the capital of the former Datia princely state and contains several palaces and gardens. The 17th-century palace of Bir Singh Deo is a fine example of Hindu domestic architecture. Constituted a municipality in 1907, the town has several colleges affiliated with Jiwaji University. Pop. (2001) 82,755.