HISTORY Original Abode Of : Kols or Mundas and Aryans Known As : Land of Deva Bhoomi Major Rulers : Rajputs Foreign Influences : Mughals, British

Representing Heritage History of Himachal - Visceral Lodge

People

Monuments

Kangra Fort

Himachal History – The Story of the 'Land of the Gods'

The history of Himachal Pradesh is reflective of the accumulation of the varied culture that evolved as well as flourished here. This was the 'Deva Bhoomi' – land of Gods, since earlier times. There are evidences that confirm the existence of pre historic humans in this region. Historians even claim this land to be inhabited by the people belonging to the Indus Valley period. Himachal Pradesh has also find its place in the various Vedas (Hindu Literature) and Epics like Mahabharata and Ramayana too have referred Himachal Pradesh, to play a significant role in history. Various legends and mythological depiction also have appraised this state with varied names.

Though Kols or Mundas are believed to be the original migrants to the hills of present day Himachal, this land also saw the confluence of the Mongols and the then flourishing dynasties. However, the credit for lading the base of the history of this state goes to the Aryan who left their homes in Central Asia, and settled in these areas, on whom is based the great cultural life of the people living among these hills. These pre historic men are believed to have settled around the Bangana valley of Kangra, Sirsa valley of Nalagarh and Markanda valley of Sirmour.

Fly Back With The Time

Apart from the Mauryans, who practically reigned over all of the north India, this land also saw its rulers in the Guptas that ruled the state in the 7th century. In the 1043 AD, Himachal Pradesh fell into the hands of the Rajput rulers and then began the plunder from the various parts of the world. Due to the hills and rough terrains, this land saw the rise of different leaders in the different parts of the state.

During the medieval period, Mughal influence grew in Himachal Pradesh. But due to certain restraints, they were unable to rule the hills, giving it to Sansar Chand, who then ruled over the area. Till then it lied concealed amidst the snowy mountains, until during the early 19th century, when the British made their presence felt. During the Gorkha war, the treaty of Lahore practically gave Himachal in the British lap, who ruled here until the day of independence. After India became a free country collective 31 Punjab hill states were integrated into a single, centrally administered unit under the charge of a chief commissioner, and it was then that this collective hilly areas were named as Himachal Pradesh.

Historically Renowned Ambika Devi Temple in Kangra

History's Influence on Himachal Culture

Himachal Pradesh has seen a lot historic influences that has helped in making this state, a truly vibrant region. In the different parts of the state, you will find people practicing different rites and rituals. Somewhere, the Rajput influence is at is maxim while in other parts, the Tibetan effect on the cuisine in visible. Himachal Pradesh is said to be the least urbanized state in the country, and this is the reason why one can see the untouched simplicity of people who seem to live in their own confined world.

The art and crafts of the region as well as the famous music and dance practiced in the state are not free from foreign effects. The Rajputs who lived on the land, have gifted Himachal Pradesh with their colorful culture that is reflective in the various festivals that when celebrated in Himachal spreads floods of colors on the white landscape of Himalayas.