city, central Tamil Nadu (Tamil Nādu) state, southeastern India. Situated between the Palni (Palni Hills) and Sirumalai hills, it is a road transport hub. Its name, derived from the words tintu kal (“pillow rock”), refers to the bare hill dominating the city. The fortress, built on the hill during the Vijayanagar era (1336–1565), was used in Hindu, Muslim, and British wars from the 17th to the 19th century. The contemporary city contains large-scale cotton spinning and weaving mills, as well as such handicraft industries as silk weaving and the manufacture of jewelry and cigars. Dindigul houses two liberal arts colleges, affiliated with Madurai-Kamaraj University. Pop. (2001) 196,955.