Why this particular DSLR Camera Nikon D 90 is Famous?

I had often seen professional photographers, studios owner, tourists mostly carry this Nikon D 90 camera with them. I'm bit interested in cameras in particular DSLR's. It's price is nearly Rs 55000 Indian Rupees.

What is so special about this DSLR camera, or why it is so preferred, ? Who are its competitors in this price range? Any DSLR offering better features that this?
Please tell me about this and may perhaps I will end up in buying this camera.

It was the first dSLR that supported video
It was the first under $1,700 camera body that had a metal chassis and environmental seals

I have friends who are birders who bought D90 cameras when they were new and still use them to this day.

It had the same 12 mp sensor at the much more expensive Nikon D300

All big positives for those who want a high quality camera without having to make a large investment

The D90 is a classic - although replaced by the D7xxx series, it's more strongly built and feels better in the hands. Even used, 55000 rupees is a low price, I'd wonder if there was something wrong with it, since demand keeps the price fairly high.

It was the first DSLR with a video capability and it has a very strong built (though a lil heavy to have it over your neck the whole day)

It is usually complex as to why some things (and people) become popular and others don't. I think the D90 started out popular by having just the right balance of performance and price. And that popularity fed on itself, creating a reputation. Nikon didn't come out with a direct replacement of the D90 but instead brought out two models that were downscale, the D5000, and upscale, the D7000. That left the D90 at that desirable price/performance ratio all by itself. I think it helped the popularity when Nikon announced the end of the D90, but quietly kept on producing it. Gave it an aura of specialness. If having a camera with a reputation appeals to you, the D90 certainly fills that bill. But, yes, there are cameras that have better features, such as the D7100 and even the D5300 has several better features such as better ISO performance. See link below.
http://snapsort.com/...-Nikon_D90

also
http://snapsort.com/...-Nikon_D90