Gour

It is said to have been founded by the legendary figure Lakshmana, and its most ancient name was Lakshmanavati, corrupted into "Lakhnauti". The area was known as Gauda (Gauka, of Gau/Cow) at the time was under the rule of famous Bengali kings such as Sasanka. In the 7th century Gopala by a democratic election in Gaur became the first independent Buddhist king of Bengal and founded the Pala Empire. The Pala dynasty ruled for nearly four centuries between the mid to late 8th century to 12th century CE. The Palas were often described by opponents as the Lords of Gauda. It was also a prosperous city during the Sena dynasty's rule in Bengal.