Katha calculator

Katha definition

Katha is a traditional unit of area measurement predominantly used in parts of South Asia, including India, Nepal, and Bangladesh. Its value varies significantly across different regions and has been historically employed for land measurement, especially in agricultural contexts.

Historical context

The origin of the Katha unit dates back to ancient times, with its usage documented during the Pala Empire. Despite the official adoption of the metric system in the mid-20th century, Katha remains in use in various regions due to entrenched cultural practices and local land measurement traditions.

Read also: Area measurement units in India.

Regional variations - Katha

• India:
  • Bihar: The size of a Katha varies within the state. In Patna and Arrah, 1 Katha equals approximately 1,361.25 square feet. In Bettiah, it is about 3,267 square feet, while in Chhapra, it measures around 1,742.4 square feet.
  • Uttar Pradesh: Here, Katha is also known as Biswa. One Katha is typically 1,361.25 square feet. The number of Kathas constituting a Bigha can range from 5 to 20, depending on the specific locality.
  • West Bengal: In this state, 1 Katha is standardized to 720 square feet. Twenty Kathas make up one Bigha, totaling 14,400 square feet.
  • Assam: The measurement of a Katha varies, with some regions defining it as 2,880 square feet, while in Lower Assam, it is 720 square feet.
• Bangladesh: In Bangladesh, one Katha is standardized to 720 square feet. Twenty Kathas constitute one Bigha, equivalent to 14,400 square feet.
• Nepal: Particularly in the Terai region, 1 Katha is equivalent to approximately 338.63 square meters (3,645 square feet). It is subdivided into 20 Dhur, with each Dhur further divided into smaller units.

Katha is primarily used for measuring land areas, especially in agricultural and rural settings. It facilitates local land transactions, agricultural planning, and real estate dealings. Despite the prevalence of the metric system, the use of Katha persists due to its deep-rooted presence in regional land measurement practices.