Barakar River, once known as Rujubalika, is one of the main rivers found in the north-eastern part of India and is the largest tributary of
Damodar River. It flows from west to east and a multipurpose dam, Maithon Dam, has been constructed across it, for flood control. The main tributaries of the river Barakar are Poanchkhara, Keso, Akto, Gurio and Gukhana Nadi.
There are a number of famous temples on the banks of Barakar River. Bhagvan Mahavir Swami Jain Teerth, near
Barakar village, is a major shrine on its banks.