The city of Dharwad is one of the important cultural and educational centers of North Karnataka. Dharwad  popularly known as Vidyakashi has three Universities-Karnatak University, University of Agricultural Sciences and University of Law  attracting the students not only from different parts of the state but also from other states. Well known poet and Janapith awardee Dr. Dattatraya Ramachandra Bendre hails from Dharwad. Girish Karnad, V. K. Gokak, Chanveer Kanavi, Betageri Krishna Sharma, Shriranga are some of the popular poets. Dr. Gangubai Hangal, Bhimsen Joshi, Pandit Mallikarjun Mansur, Praveen Godkindi are some of the famous musicians. The river Shalmala originated in Dharwad, nearby the ancient Someshwara temple. In 2008 a circuit bench of High Court of Karnataka was established in Dharwad. Hubbali railway station which is renamed as ‘Shree Siddaroodha Swamiji Railway Station’ is set to get the world’s longest railway platform with dimensions of 1,400 meters length and 10 meters width. Shree Dharwad city is situated on Poona-Bengaluru National highway and well connected by rail, road and air. It is endowed with rolling hills and blessed with pleasant weather throughout the year. Historical places like Badami, Hampi, Kudalasangam, are in close proximity. The famous waterfalls of Jog, Gokak, Doodsagar and Dandeli wild life sanctuary are also in close proximity. Dharwad is famous for famous Dharwad Pedha, enjoyed by many across the country.