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UNIVERSITY GRANTS COMMISSION
Minor Research Project
Entitled
“SURVEY OF HISTORICAL SITES IN
ANCIENT BEED”
Submitted to
University Grants Commission
Western Regional Office
Ganeshkhind Pune-7
Submitted By,
Dr. V.S. Kandhare M.A., Ph.D.
Head & Asst. Prof.
Department of History
N.S.S.R‟s, Arts & Science College, Chousala,
Tq. & Dist. Beed-431126
Through
Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada
University, Aurangabad.
June-2015
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CERTIFICATE
This is to certify that the Minor Project entitled “Survey of Historical
Sites in Ancient Beed” is a genuine research work done by Dr. Vishwas
Shamrao Kandhare in the faculty of Social Science, N.S.S.R’s, Arts &
Science College, Chousala, Tq. & Dist. Beed as per requirement of
University Grant Commission, New Delhi.
The Project has not formed, in whole or parts, the basis for the award
of any degree of this university or any other university.
Place : Chousala, Beed Principal
Date : : / / 2015
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DECLARATION
I hereby declare that Project entitled “Survey of Historical Sites in
Ancient Beed” has been composed by me and submit the same as a
requirement for the Minor Project in History under the faculty of Social
Science, N.S.S.R‟s, Arts & Science College, Chousala, Tq. & Dist. Beed to
University Grant Commission, New Delhi.
I also declare that this project and part thereof has not been previously
submitted by me for any purpose of this university of any other university.
Place : Chousala, Beed Dr. V.S. Kandhare
Date : / / 2015
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CONTENTS
Sr. No. Particulars Page No.
* Certificate I
* Declaration II
* Contents III
CHAPTER-I The Concept 05-17
CHAPTER-II Research Design 18-22
CHAPTER-III Historical Sketch 23-50
CHAPTER-IV Archeological Profile of Bhir District :
Pre-History & Pro-History
51-55
CHAPTER-V Archeology of Historical Sites 56-76
CHAPTER-VI Critical Study 77-80
CHAPTER-VII Conclusion 81-84
* Historical Sites in Beed 85-99
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CHAPTER- I
THE CONCEPT
1.1. Introduction 1.2. The study of place name 1,3, Cultural geography approach 1.4. Cultural geographical background of Beed 1.5. Changes in place of Beed in ancient period 1.6. Dynamics of culture around Beed. 1.7. Summary
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CHAPTER- I
THE CONCEPT
1.1. Introduction:
Archeology is a source, which focus light on ancient past. India is rich
in past cultural heritage such as stone-age tools, caves temples, mountains
and forts. The sources of history are just like sun and moon and they can be
described and studied on regional as well as local level. Marathwada region
is rich in historical tradition. Godavari valley was a cradle of civilization and
art, architecture as well as literature founded in the region. According to
Romila Thaper regional approach helps as a great deal to understand the
facts which re active on regional matrix.1
According to R.C. Mujumdar social milieu and culture effects can be
extended by the study of rich historical tradition. In this project ancient Beed
and its historical sites will be studied systematically.2
The study of art, culture and heritage in Beed can be very well
conducted here for the study of rebuild cultural history on local level.
The study of historical sites can be certified on the basis of authentic
sources. The decantation of these sources is needed because sources are just
like sun and moon historical science torch light to come out from darkness to
light. The documentation of these sources can help us to throw light on the
local history. Hence the study of important sites of ancient period has been
placed here. The study of ancient sights in Beed can be very much useful for
the enrichment of local history in a systematic manner.
The region Marathwada is known as Adi-Manava. The study of local
history of the ancient period is a neglected aspect.
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Hence the study of such sites remains a challenging area. The study of
historical sites in ancient Beed is conduced here because such a study is not
conducted earlier by any scholar on local level.
1.2. The Study of Place Name:
The study of place name Beed must be conducted here with prior to
the understanding of important sites.
According to tradition, Beed was called Durgavati during the time of
the Pandavas and the Kururs, and its name was subsequently changed to
Balni, hut Champavati, Vikramaditya‟s sister after capturing it, named it
Champavatinagar. There are yet two more Versions as to how the present
name came to be given to the town. The first of these tells that a Yavana
ruler finding water at a very low depth in the town named it Bhir which in
Persian means water, The second one state that as the district is situated at
the foot of the Balaghat range it looks as if it is in a hole and hence the name
Bil (meaning hole in Marathi) was given to it which in course of time
corrupted into Bid. So much for the origin of the name of the town.3
However, all different ideas and opinions on Beed as a place name can
be surveyed and analyzed here.
The history of Bid could be traced from epic to the ancient and
mediaeval time. It must have been included successively in the kingdoms of
the Andhras, the Calukyas. The Rastrakutas and the Yadava‟s of Devagiri,
the ruling dynasties of that region, and from whom it passed on the Muslim
invaders from the north. A mention of Bid could be found in the Puranas
which tell us that when sita was being forcibly carried away by Ravan, the
demon king of Lanka (Ceylon), the bird Jatayu tried to intercept him at this
place. Jatau, however, was crippled by Ravan by cutting off one of his
wings. 4
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The study of Jatau runs like in an interesting manner. This study can
be very well documented and carefully studied to highlight the traditions
behind the temple
Helplessly he feels down and kept waiting in agony for the arrival of
Ram. It was only after narrating the story of Sita‟s abduction to Ram that he
breathed his last. The temple of Jatashankar, located in the centre of the
town, is said to have been built on the spot where Jatau fell dead. The temple
architecture indicates that it is the product of Yadava period.5
Number of historical and cultural sites of Satavahanas, Chalukyas,
Rastrakutas, as well as Yadavas period, all are available in the surroundings
of Beed city.
In the Chalukya period the daughter of Chalukya known as
Champavati was married to Tilakchand. History has recorded that about the
year 1326 Muhammad-bin-Tughlug changed the name of Champavati to
Beed.6 The study of cultural geography of Beed can help to throw light on
the ancient period in an interesting manner. In this work entire Beed city has
been surveyed and documented properly.
1.3. Cultural Geography Approach:
Culture has defined as way of life. It includes customs, beliefs and art
traditions.7 The cultural sites in Beed and its surroundings have a significant
value because these monuments and sites illustrate the rich past having
deeply rooted ethnic traditions. Hence ethno cultural processes must be
examined here.
Cultural geography and ethnic studies are very important in a new age.
They provide a background for the understanding of various dimensions of
cultural history in the right perspective of cultural geography. The study of a
place name is a significant branch in cultural history. Beed, the present name
of Bhir has been evolved through various historical traditions. Tarkteerth
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Laxmanshastri Joshi has observed that efforts of human being to establish
cohesion with nature can be a part of cultural study. 8
The study of Beed and its surroundings can help us to look at the
cultural history in a positive angle. The regional, local forces can be
researched here in the context of Beed.
Marathwada in general and Beed in particular is not exception to this
phenomenon. According to A.L. Basham human relation was an important
character of Indian society and these relations were swapped on the
principles of humanity. 9
In order to understand these principles of human relations there is a
need to correlate past and present effectively. The study of man and his past
must be the epi center of all these aspects. The cultural ethnography of the
Beed and its surroundings in Godavari Valley can help to illustrate different
dimensions together in a new sociological perspective.
1.4. Cultural Geographical Background of Beed:
Beed is located on the bank of river Bindusara, a tributary of Godavari
River. The other rivers flowing in the Beed are known as Manjara,
Sindphana and Wan. The other minor streams or revers are Talwar, Kanhli,
Ruti and Mehkani. In summer these rivers become dry. These rivers have
provided agricultural base for the Beed district. The socio economic
development is depended on these rivers and availability of water.
Beed District is situated at the Central West of the Aurangabad. It is
between 18.28 and 19.28 longitudinally and between 74.54 and 76.57
longitudinally. It is surrounded by Aurangabad and Jalna in the North,
Parbhani and Latur in the East, Ahmednagar and Osmanabad in the South
and Ahmednagar in the West. Godavari is the most significant river that
flows on the borderline of Georai and Majalgaon Tehsils.
Beed is situated in the Deecan black basalt stone, ranges of Balaghat
that constitutes main range from Ahmednagar in the west, to the border of
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district Beed in the East. This range divides the district into two parts. The
plain area in the North is called as Gangathadi (bank of Ganga-Godavari)
and the higher part is called as Ghat at Balaghat. Many hills exceed 2500
feet mark from the sea-level Balaghat range is between heights of 2000 and
2200 feet, whereas the plains called Gangathadi have the heights between
1200 and 1500 feet from the sea-level. The heights of Ashti Tehsil are
between 1750 and 2000 feet from the sea-level. The slope of Ashti Tehsil is
in the Southern direction.10
The geographical location of Beed has made its people more hard
working and sincere. The history of Beed has been studied on the
background of historical past. The study of historical sites can be very well
conducted by narrating the cultural geography of the region, which can help
to know about the historical processes in a systematic manner.
About cultural geography, the regional variations have close
connectivity due to language linkages. S.K. Chatterji has observed that
“Indian culture has an organic unity, and this has been largely brought about
language movements, shaped and molded by Sanskrit language. Sanskrit,
had its unique status and unfailing vitality, has been the most powerful
formative agency form the very beginning of Indian history and civilization,
giving them their special Indian Character.” 11
All these aspects have been neatly documented here. The all major
historical sites of Beed are located on the surroundings of Bindusara River.
Beed the ancient name of Beed was champavati nagar. This histrocial city is
situated on the bank of the Bindusara River. This city is surrounded by
various historical places. In the south east there is an old historical temple of
“Lord Shiva” which is known as Papneshwar. This ancient temple is deep in
the ground having Shivpind. The water falls constantly on Shivpind. By the
side of the temple there are square shaped well which is full of water. 12
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In the East of the city Beed there is an ancient temple of Lord
Mahadeo, Named Kankaleshwar. It is the master piece of sculpture. It
attacks the superlative praise from sculpture. This historical temple is
surrounded by water. It looks magnificent.
The Khandoba temple rises on the hill in front of Khandeshwari
temple. It is constructed in hemadpanthi style. In front of the temple are a
couple of very high structures called “Deep Malas” about 100 to 200 ft. high
and visible from 5 to 10 kilometers distance. They attract the attention of
visitors. There is Hanuman temple beside Kandeshwari temple. In the same
area there are three famous as well as historical wells known as Baravas.13
Even today people drink water from these wells. In the East of
khandoba temple there is another well known as mother in law and daughter-
in-law Barava. The wonder is the water tests salty in mother as water tests
salty in mother in laws section though there is no wall separating the water.
Jata Shankar temple is situated in the heart of the town. It is said that
when Prabhu Ramchandra was helplessly wandering in search of sits. He
found Jatau bird in wounded condition. The bird tried to release Sita from
the custody of Lankapati Ravana who fatally wounded the bird. The bird told
Rama story of Sita‟s Kidapping and the bird died at the feet of Rama. Then
Prabhu Ramachandra did funeral and established Jata Shankar near Jata
Shankar temple there is famous Ganesh temple. In peth Beed area there is
omnipotent Shani Dev temple Shahenshahwali Darga, Khajana Bavadi,
Bendusura Project, Yuva Shanty Van, Bendsura Project (Manjari) Swami
Samarth temple. 14
The study of all these remains revealed that these sites have close
historical commonality which reveal people‟s faith and religious affinity. All
these important temples and sites have a rich tradition of past. Right from the
epic period to the rise of Yadavas period, these cultural developments have a
chronology.
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Beed is located on Dakshinpath. On this basis the linguistic roots of
Daxinapath can be traced. In the ancient period the area around Godavari
River was known as Ashmak area in the Vaidic period.15
The Vedic period was also significant in Beed region because the
Saint Agasthi was first Rishi to climb the Vindhya Mountain and he stepped
in Beed area for the first time.
In the epic age of Ramayana and Mahabharata, the place was known
as Durgavati. It is also evident from the text Mms Navgan Mahatmya that
Saint Agusthi who crossed Vindya Mountain and reached Daxinapth had
stayed for long time in Beed area. His two Ashrama are shown at
Rakshasbhuwan and Navgan Rajuri (Tq. & Dist.Beed). The Mms also refers
to visit of Agasthi and Rama in the hilly area of Balaghat. There are also
some interesting stories of Rama‟s miracles spread at different places at
Dharur, Manjarsumbha and Georai, which is an evidence of epic period.16
In the Ramayana period, the bird Jatau who gave a massage of
kidnapping of Sita to Rama and ended his life with his last breath. The
ancient temple of Jatashankar in Beed is a testimony of the fact.
All these literary and archeological evidences show that the rich past
of Beed had continuously from past to present. The epic age and Vedic age
remains, many a times overlap each other. There is a need to set chronology
of evidences.
1.5. Changes in the Place of Beed in Ancient Period:
Bose has rightly observed that “The Buddha too practiced his
austerities in a forest; Tyaga, Tapasya and Tapovana have always gone hand
in hand in Indian culture.”17
The Godavari Valley was also known as
Tapovan, sacred land of Tapa of various rishis like agasthi, Gautam and
Kapilmuni. The area was sacred due to two causes, one due to Tapa of rishis
and other due to its safe residence of divine powers.
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The Godavari River and the Balaghat ranges have thus played a vital
role in building cultural history of Deccan.
The history of Beed is interesting enough and the traditions of pleatue
can be researched again to arrive at a sharp focus.
In the ancient period the city was known as Bilini, which means in
Sankrit languages, a tunnel or hole naturally created due to river Bindusara.
The references of the word Bilini also occur in the Satvahana period, which
was first glorious phase of Beed area.
The important places and their past nomenclature were also evident to
provide impetus to the past history. These factors can be very well correlated
here. The temples, archeological sites and various monuments which have
been established a rural Beed and its past.
According to legendary stories Hindu Gods were getting asylum in
these tunnels, when they were attacked by demons. All these remains have a
clear-cut evidence of the past. The study of these remains showed that due to
this safe and secure and secular place, many monuments and temples were
constructed in the area surrounded by natural beauty. The illustrations of
these remains showed that the cultural history of Beed thus became rich and
inspiring.
In the epic age of Mahabharata the city was known as Durgavati. The
sister of Kalyani Chalukya king Vikramadhitya, who was known as
Champavati was married to noble man known as Tilakchand who was son of
Gopichand at Beed and the city was named after her as Champavatinagari.
The cultural contribution of Beed in the Chalukya period seems very
rich because the period was mostly significant enough to reveal true
traditions. The Chalukya period had a tremendous continuity of these
traditions. The temples, tanks and stones were sacred and significant in the
Chalukya period.
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In Rastrakuta period Dharur have almost attained status of sub capital.
For some times during the Rashtrakuta period the city was known as
srivardhan. This has been referred to in Vratakhand written by Hemadri and
also refers to in another book Ratnamla strot. During the Culchuri period city
was capital of King Bijjal.
The Rastrakuta period was a boon for the political and cultural
development in the Beed and its surroundings. But further the Yadavas
period was a turning point.
In the Chalukya period many cities like Dharmapuri flourished due to
the royal support of Chalukyas. In Yadava period several glorious places in
Beed district in which cities like Ambajogai and Pirushttampuri had
flourished.
The study of these cities has been conducted by Dr. A. Pathak in one
of his article on ancient Ambajogai in Yadava period.
The famous mathematician of Yadav period, Bhaskaracharya was
originally hailed from Bijjal Beed city. His origin home was from Beed city
and this has been referred to in his classical material text Siddhant
shiromani. Some people even show the old residential place of Bhaskarchaya
who must be credited for discovery of cipher of zero in mathematics.
Beed has provided many saints and prophets as well as scholars and
scholars like Bhaskaracharya in the period.
All these evidences are significant enough to study the rich cultural
heritage of Deccan in general and Beed in particular.
After Allauddin Khilji‟s evasion in 1294 and later on the complete
defeat in 1326 shows that the area was known as Beed and was included in
Subha of the Mohammod Tughalaq rule. The word “Bhir” in Persian
language means water and this has been connected to the availability of
ample water in the region.
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Thus the glorious epoch of the Beed evolved in 13th
century and the
darkness in the medieval age began which evidenced the rich traditions and
turned the wheel of time. Now on this background the cultural dynamics can
be studied.
1.6. Dynamics of Culture Around Beed:
Cultural geography of Maharashtra has been documented first by V.K.
Rajwade. “But later on H.D. Sankliya continued the tradition.” V.K.
Rajwade discovered chronicle Radhamadhavvilascampu and had highlighted
many neglected aspects of the region.
The cultural cycle of Beed can be further studied on the basis of many
neglected archeological and literary sources. These have a close relevance to
the past tradition of Beed. Few more sources are also significant enough
which can be recorded here.
In the history of Beed the history of place name begins with
Durgavati, Bilini and Champavati and it. R. Srinivasan has included various
aspects of culture such as art, music and dance. The temple of Beed like
Kankaleshwar exemplifies all these aspects. E.H. Car Toynbi‟s approach of
cultural history was circular and it helps to understand cultural
development.18
These aspects help us to cover many neglected elements of ancient
history. The study of all these remains can help us to arrive at a sharp focus.
The archeology of Beed had thus close history with past and it helps to
look at the past effectively.
1.7. Summary:
According to Bose “The lure of the forest has always been great and
deep for the Indian mind.” In Beed district there were many ancient Ashrams
of Agasthi, Gautam and Kapil Muni. Two places are shown as Agasthi
Ashrams one at Rakshasbhuwan and another at Navgan Rajuri. The legendry
story refers that Prabhu Ramchandra had met Agasthi Rishi at Rajuri. At
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Manjrath I Majalgaon taluka there were Ashrams of Gautam Muni and this
place is treated as South Kashi. This place is a confluence of three rivers
Godavari, and two local tributaries of Godavari named as Sindfana and
Saraswati.
Thus important religions and cultural places have been summarized
here. On the basis of River Godavari and its tributaries which provided
availability of water, the cultural centers had well developed in the
Satavahana period. At Kapildhar there was a third Ashram of Kapil Muni
where there is even today perennial source of water. In Balaghat there is a
sacred place “Pohicha Dev” a Mahanubhav cult. According to Bose “in the
Ramayana and Mahabharata and in later Sanskrit literature, all these
evidences showed that the Beed and its prosperity had rich past and
monuments as well as temples and lakes were able to develop in its
surroundings in the course of time.” All these aspects are significant enough
to reveal the past.
In Sanskrit literature, we came across descriptions of many Ashrams
of Vanaprastas and Rishis and of educational institutions. Along with these
Ashrams the remains of temples and structures are evidences of the cultural
dynamics in the region.
Thus it is clear that there was continuity in the cultural history of
Beed. Thus all these can help us to build the cultural geography of Beed
district. Thus in this chapter we have highlighted the proper background of
the cultural history of important sites surrounded in Beed district.
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References:
1. Thapaer Romila, “Early History of India” p-8
2. Mujumdar R.C. - The History of Cultural India, p-21
3. Beed District Gazetteer- p-1
4. Ibid., p-4
5. Ibid., p-2
6. Ibid., p-3
7. Oxford Dictionary, London, 2004- p-378
8. Joshi Tarkatirtha Laxman Shastri, “Marathi Vishwakosh” –p.39
9. Beed District Gazetteer
10. Basham A.L. – A Cultural History of India- p.127
11. Chatterji S.K. – Cultural Heritage of India- p.139
12. Beed District Gazetteer
13. Tarka Tirth Laxman Shastri Joshi “Marathi Vishwakosh”
14. Beed District Gazetteer
15. Ibid
16. Sankliya H.D. “Cultural Geography of Maharashtra”
17. Car E.H. “What is a History”
18. Beed District Gazetteer
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CHAPTER II
RESEARCH DESIGN
2.2. Introduction
2.2. Historical sociology
2.3. Descriptive research design
2.4. Primary and secondary sources
2.5. Summary
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CHAPTER II
RESEARCH DESIGN
2.1. Introduction:
In the historical research methodological devises are significant
because these sources play a vital role in the entire process of the
archeological literary sources. Karl Pearson has opined that “There is no
short cut to the truth no way to gain knowledge of the universe except
through the gateway of scientific method.” Further he has noted that
“Scientific method is one and the same in all branches and that method is the
method of all logically trained minds.” The subject like archeology and
history is also no exception to this.
The study of historical and ancient sites in Beed and its periphery can
be conducted by decoding various sources in a systematic manner. Along
with these archeological and literary sources. There are other sources like
folk media and local legends.
E.C.H. Car has defined history as unending dialogue between the
present and the past. “According to Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru history means
the various events of the past given in the form of record during the present
period.” In order to study the historical background of Beed district we have
to understand how the people of Beed were correlating dialogue with the
past.
Hence in this chapter different dimensions of historical part have been
carefully examined and new light has been thrown on relevant material. All
these sources have a meaningful relevance about this research work and
these can be correlated and interpreted here in a relevant manner. The source
material used here has been rightly explained and properly interpreted here
in a systematic manner.
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2.2. Historical Sociology:
The study of ancient period can be conducted on the basis of historical
sociology. The sociology is a much younger discipline and which can be
developed on the basis of historical sociology. The two different aspects
such as social and cultural life can be examined on the basis of archeological
sources. Good and Hutt have observed that the discipline of sociology can
help to look at social aspects in a new angle. Car has also highlighted the
relevance of sociological science.
2.3. Descriptive Research Design:
In the historical research, descriptions of facts are very much
important. The archeological sources, monuments and temples can be
described here for highlighting different facts.
The entire subject is based on documentation and analysis of sources.
About descriptive design Bhandarkar and Wilkinson have noted that (three
footnotes Mhaske) Hence in this work useful source material has been
collected properly and presented here neatly.
2.4. Primary and Secondary Sources:
The historical studies are based on the primary and secondary sources.
These sources can be noted here. The visit to historical sites, their
photography and documentation is a primary source. The scholar has visited
25 sites and documented properly. Further the published material in various
books and journals have been documented. The websites of Maharashtra
state and other historical research boards have been documented here
properly. All these sources matter a great deal.
Important sources used:
The important historical sources used in this research work can be noted
below:
Exploration: The researcher has visited all the sites in the periphery of
Beed district.
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Documentation: The 12 temples around Beed city have been
photographed and surveyed in the surroundings and proper
documentation has been presented. Interview: In this work 10 scholars
in the region such as Dr. B.S. Deshpande, S.B. Deo, and G. B.
Degloorkar have been interviewed and their opinions on the
background of Beed were studied.
District Gazetteer: Beed district Gazetteer was published in 1971 and
the same has been recently recorded. The details available in this work
have been used here.
Historical research: S.B. Deo has written a book on temples in
Marathwada. Dr. G.B. Degloorkar has studied the temple architecture
in Marathwada. The works have benefitted the researcher.
Indian Archeology: The yearly publications by Archeological Survey
of India are significant document.
Epigraphic India: Indian Archeology as well as Epigraphic India is a
regular publication which includes the study of inscriptions. Here
recent manuscripts published earlier have also been used.
Books on Beed: Books on history of Beed have been published by
S.H.Salunke. These books have been used for the present research
work.
Articles in newspapers: Dr. V.L. Dharurkar has written an article on
city in special supplement of Marathwada daily.
Maharashtra annual: Maharashtra Annual number is published by
Santosh Dastane of Pune. There are regular entries about the historical
and geographical aspects. The review of these details has been
undertaken in this work. The annual number has also been published
by Tukaram Jadhav and its Unique Career Academy Pune. This has
also been used for this study.
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2.5. Summary:
Thus in this chapter a critical study of source material was conducted.
Both primary and secondary sources were discussed. The descriptive
research design was discussed properly and various sources were presented
neatly. The entire source material has been reviewed properly and new light
is thrown on various archeological and literary sources. In this chapter the
important steps in descriptive research design was also discussed and their
relevance in the present context was also discussed. The entire phenomenon
has been very well presented here. The important primary and secondary
sources were noted with special reference to the present research project.
The stags in archeological explorations and photographic documentation
were also noted. These facts have a greater relevance to this research work.
In this chapter an important sociological aspects of historical research
was neatly focused and the available source material was evaluated in this
context.
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CHAPTER III
HISTORICAL SKETCH
3.1. Introduction
3.2. Summary
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CHAPTER III
HISTORICAL SKETCH
3.1. Introduction:
The history of Bhir district began from pre-historic period. Very
recently few explorations have been conducted and there is a continuous
history from early Stone Age to the end of Yadava period.
With the advent of the Aryans we get some light on the past history of
this region. It was then covered by a thick jungle, which extended from the
Central India to the Deccan and it was known as Dandakarniya.
On the basis of this fact it is clear that the region was known as
dankararniya. It was also referred as dakshinapath a paveway to Deccan.
There are many legendary stories. It has been noted that “Agastya was
the first Aryan who crossed the Vindhya and fixed his residence on the bank
of Godavari.
The reference to Agasthi and Prabhu Ramchandra‟s visit has appeared
in the Navagan Mahatmya a scripture of Navgan region.1
This memorable event is commemorated in the mythological story
which represents Vindhya as bending before his guru Agastya, when the
latter approached him.2 The sage asked the mountain to remain in that
condition until he returned from south, which he never did. Agasthi was
followed by several other sages who established the ir hermitages in
different regions of the south.
This shows that there were many Ashramas on the river Godavari.
These Ashramas were having a status of Gurukula. The other Rishis referred
in the mythological legends are Gautam Rrishi as well as Kapil Muni. At
Manrath, in the taluka Majalgaon and Kapildhar in Bhir taluka are evident of
the same.3 All these Rishis have enriched history of Bhir district. The cluster
25 |
of hermitages on the bank of the Godavari was called anasthana to
distinguish3
it from t he surrounding uninhabited forest country. The
sages were constantly harassed by the original inhabitants of the region who
are called Raksasas in the Ramayana.
Thus Bhir has a strong historical tradition of epic age.
These shapeless and ill-looking monsters testify to their
abominable c ha r a c t e r by various cruel a n d t e r r i f i c displays .
They implicate the hermits in impure practices a nd perform greatest
outrages. Changing their shapes and h id i n g i n t he t h i c k e t s adjoining
the hermitages, these frightful beings delight terrifying the devotees. They
cast away their sacrificial ladles and vessels; they pollute t he cooked
oblations, a n d u t t e r ly defile the offerings with blood. These faithless
creatures inject frightful sounds into the ears of the faithful a n d a us te re
hermits. At the time of the sacri f ice they snatch a w a y the jars, the
flowers and the fuel and the sacred grass of these sober-minded men."5
These epic stories are deeply rooted in public mind as mythus and legends.
These detaisl amply testify all these facts in a systematic manner. Saint
Aguasthi was a prominent figure who established the three Ashrams in the
surrounding of Bhir district.
In course of time a large kingdom was founded north of the
Godavari by Vidarbha, the son of Rsabhadeva.6 His capital was
Kundinapura in the Amravati district of the country which has since then
become known by his name. Agastya married his daughter Lopamudra.
Agastya is 'the Seer' of some hymns of the Rugveda. His wife, Lopamudra
is also mentioned in the Rgveda I.
Thus Agastya and his wife Lopamudra have contributed a great deal in
vedic literature. The country became well known in the age of Brahmanas
and the Upanisads in which it is frequently mentioned.7
26 |
Further it has been observed that the Ramayana in the Uttarakanda
states the story of king Danda in whose time Vidarbha was devastated by a
violent storm. Danda was a son of lksvaku and grandson of Manu. He
ruled over the country between the Vindhya and Saivala mountains from
his capital Madhumanta. He led a voluptuous life and, once upon a time
violated the daughter of the sage Bhargava. The sage then cursed the king
that his whole kingdom would be devastated by a terrible dust storm. The
whole country between the Vindhya and Saivala mountains extending over
a thousand yojanas was consequently turned into a great forest which since
then came to be known as Dandakaranya. It was in this forest that the
Sudra sage Sambuka was practising austerities. As this was an irreligious
act according to the notions of those days, Rama beheaded him and
revived the life of a Brahmana boy who had died prematurely. The place
where Sambuka was beheaded is still shown on the hill of Ramtek, about
27 miles from Nagpur'.8
The mythological stories of Ramayana are still prevailing in South
India on large scale. The central part of the Deccan was then divided into
several countries known by different names. Thus, the region to the north
of the Godavari now included in the Aurangabad district was known by the
name of Mulaka. This country together with its capital Pratisthana is
mentioned in Pali literature.9
Thus the area of Paithan was also an effeactive Buddhist center of
learning to the north of it laid the country of Rsika now called Khandes.10
Thus Bhir was also closer to Khandesh. To the cast of Rsika was
Vidarbha which has already been described. Along the southern bank of
the Godavari extended the country of Asmaka (Pali, Assaka), which
comprised the modern Ahmednagar and Bid districts. Later, this region
came to be included in the country of Kuntala, which extended far to the
south. It included what is now known as the Southern Maratha Country as
27 |
well as North Karnataka and the Simoga and Citaldurga districts of the old
Mysore State in an inscriptional passage.11
These referenes amply testify the reference of Bhir district. The upper
valley of the Krsna is said to be included in the Kuntala country. In the
Udayasundarikatha of Soddhala (11th
cen. A.D.) Pratisthana on the
Godavari is said to be the capital of the Kuntala country. In early times
Kuntala was probably included in the larger country called Maharastra.
The Aihole inscription (7th
cen. A.D.) speaks of three Maharastras
comprising 99,000 villages which probably comprised Vidarbha, Western
Maharagra and Kuntala. 12
The area of Bhir district was included in Kuntala region. In later times
Kuntala came to denote the predominantly Kanarese country now included
in the Mysore State. It is described as a seven-and-a-half-lakh province. The
Early Calukyas of Badami and the later Calukyas of Kalyani ruling over this
territory were known as Kuntalendras or lords of Kuntala. In earlier days,
however, the districts of Kolhapar, Satara, Solapar, Ahmadnagar and Bid,
which are now Marathl-speaking, were included in Kuntala. As we shall see
later, the early Rastrakutas, who were ruling over this territory was known as
Kuntalesvaras (rulers of Kuntala). 13
Thus the area of Bhir was included in Kuntala, an important republic
in South India. Coming to historical times, we find that all this territory was
included in the Empire of Asoka. No inscription of the great Emperor has yet
been found in this region as it has been discovered in Vidarbha. 14
Thus the areas of Bhir district were included under the empire of King
Ashoka in the Mauryan period. The influence of Buddhism was prominent in
the period. But his seventh and thirteenth rock edicts mention Rastrika-
Petenikas and Bhoja-Petenikas respectively. Many scholars rake Petenikas
mentioned in these edicts as refering to the residents of Pratisthana (modern
Paithan in the Aurangabad district). But D. R. Bhandarkar would prefer to
28 |
take the word to mean 'hereditary'. Be that as it may. Rastrikas were
undoubtedly the rulers of this region, who came to be known later as
Maharathis. Soon after the death of Ashoka, this region declared its
independence. A new dynasty which derived its name from its founder king
Satavahana rose to power with its capital at Pratisthana (modern Paithan). It
received support from the local rulers called Maharathis, with whom it
formed matrimonial alliances. This dynasty is called Andhra in the Purana. 15
Thus during the Satavahana period Bhir was a prominent post which
was prosperous and glorious region. The evidences speak a great deal about
Satavahana period. But it first rose to power in West ern Maharastra. This is
Indicative by its earliest inscriptions which are found in the caves at
Naneghat near Junnar and at Nasik. Its earliest coins issued by king
Satavahana have been found at Aurangabad and in Vidarbha. In later times it
extended its rule to Andhra as shown by its later inscriptions and coins found
in that region. The Puranas call it Andhra evidently because it was ruling in
that country when the Puranic account was compiled in the early centuries of
the Christian era. Though king Satavahana was the founder of this family, he
is not mentioned in the Puranas. The first king of the Andhra (i.e.
Satavahana) dynasty mentioned in the Puranas is Simuka (Srimukha). Who
is also known from a relievo statue of his in a Naneghat cave. We do not
know the extent of his kingdom, but it is surmised to have spread at least
from Junnar to Pratsthana (Paithan). When he ended his rule, his son
Satkarni was probably a minor and so his brother Krsna ascended the throne.
From; Sunmukha to Goutamiputra Satkarni more than 35 rulers ruled
Deccan for 350 years.16
He has left an inscription in a cave which he got excavated at Nasik
for the Buddhist Monks. 17
29 |
Thus the reference of these Budhust cave is significant here. The next
ruler of the dynasty was Satakarni I, who is also known from a relievo figure
now mutilated in a Naneghat cave. 18
He married Naganika, the daughter of the Maharathi Tranakayira, who
also was represented by a relievo statue in the same Nageghat cave,
Satakarni seems to have extended his rule over the whole of the Deccan and
even carried his arms north of the Narmada. King Kharavela of Kalinga who
was his contemporary is said to have sent an army to the west, not minding
Satakarni, who is probably this very ruler. When the army reached the river
Kanhabenna, it struck terror in the hearts of the people of Rsika. This river is
usually identified with the Krsna but the identification is not plausible, for
the Krsna flows not west but south-west of Kalinga (Orissa). It is more likely
to be the river Kanhan, which flows about 10 miles from Nagpur. Rsika is of
course, Khandes as already stated. There was no actual clash of arms on this
occasion, but two years later, Kharavela probably penetrated further west as
he claims to have received submission from a number of the Rathikas and
Bbojakas, who were probably Satavahana feudatories. Thus Bhir was a
influenctial region in the Satavahana period. Saakarni performed the
Rajasuya and Asvamedha sacrifices (the latter twice), which probably
commemorated his important victories or supremacy in the Deccan and, as
such, had political significance. He performed several other Srauta sacrifices
such as Agnyadheya, Aptoryama, Dasaratra, Trayodasaratra,
Anginirasatriratra, Satatiyatra and Gavamayana, all of; which were marked
by munificent gifts of horses, elephants, land and karsapanas. They are
recorded in a large but now sadly mutilated, inscription in a cave at
Naneghat. The Bid district was undoubtedly included in the dominion of
Satakarni E. Thus Bhir was part of Satavahana Empire. 19
Satakarni I left behind two sons, Vedisri and Saktisri who are
mentioned in the aforementioned Naneghat inscription. Vedisri, who
30 |
succeeded him, is described as a very brave prince whose army was always
victorious and who became the lord of Daksina-patha (Deccan'). 20
Thus the Satavahana period was glorious for Marathwada region in
geneal and Bhir in particular. He was succeeded by a number of rulers who
are named in the Puranic lists, but about whom they furnish little information
except their reign-periods which also vary in different Puranas and even in
the manuscripts of the same Puranas. But one name among them is
noteworthy. It is that of king Hala, the reputed author of the Gathasaptasali, a
unique collection of seven hundred Prakrt verses descriptive of the social,
religious and economic life of the period. Hala flourished in the first century
A.D. 21
In the Satavahana period there were more than 20 metro cities in the
region and Satavahana trade, commerce, amd art & architecture benefitted
Bhir district.
It has been rightly observed that some years after Hala‟s reign,
Maharastra was conquered by the Saka Ksatrapas. Nahapana, a Saka
Ksatrapa probably appointed by the contemporary Kusana Emperor, was
ruling over Konkan, Poona, Nasik and some other districts of Western
Maharastra as also some portions of Central India as far north as Ajmer. The
Bid district also was probably under his rule, though we have so far no
definite evidence of this. Vidarbha was under the rule of another Ksatrapa as
disclosed by a pillar inscription recently discovered in the Bhandarii
district.22
Thus the area of Bhir district was stable during the Satavahana period.
The Satavahanas were therefore obliged to leave Western Maharastra and
Vidarbha and repaired to the southern parts of their dominions, but soon
Gautamiputra Satakarni retrieved the fortunes of his family. He made a
daring dash into Vidarbha and occupied Benakata or the Wainganga district.
Thereafter, he invaded Western Maharastra and defeated Nahapana some
31 |
where in the Nasik district. This is shown by his inscription in one of the
Nasik caves wherein he is called Benakataka-swami or the lord of Benakata
(Wainganga district).23
Thus Satavahana inscriptions are testimony of their political and
cultural influence. It is true that he probably extended his rule to a large part
of the peninsula as his chargers are said to have drunk the waters of the three
oceans. The following provinces are specifically mentioned as comprised in
his dominion: Rsika (Khandes), Asmaka (Ahmadnagar and Bid distiicts),
Mulaka (Aurangabad district), Vidarbha, Akara and Avanti (Eastern and
Western Malva), Kukura (South-eastern Rajputana), Suratha (Kathiavad)
and Aparanta (Konkan). That his empire extended much further is shown by
the description that the mountains Setagiri (near Nagarjunikonda), Sristana
(Kurnul district) and Mahendra (between the Godavari and the Krsna) were
situated in his kingdom'. 24
After defeating Nahapana, Gautamiputra Satkarni called back the
silver coins of the Saka Ksatrapa Nahapana and restruck them. The
Jogalatembhi hoard contained more than 10.000 silver coins so counter-
struck. 25
Thus the success of Goutamiputra Satkarni was significant and it
turned the wheel of the time. It is rightly observed that He himself issued a
large number of potin coins with the figure of the Elephant on the obverse
and the Ujjain symbol on the reverse. In the hoard of potin coins found at
Tarhala in the Aokla district, out of 1,200 decipherable coins, as many as
573 were of Gautamiputra.'26
This Satkarni‟s period was ever raising Marathwada region. Further it
has been noted that Gautamiputra Satakarni was succeeded by Vasistiputra
Pulumavi, who also ruled over an extensive kingdom, but seems to have lost
some northern provinces like Akaravanti to the Ksatrapas. He struck some
32 |
silver portrait coins which show that he had an aquiline nose and his features
indicated grim determination.27
Thus it is evident that these coins speak their glory. It has been
observed that he was succeeded by his brother Vasisthiputra Satakarni, who
married the daughter of the Saka Mahaksatrapa Rudradaman. Among his
successors the most noteworthy is Yajnasri Satakarni, whose inscriptions and
coins have been found over a large area. They show that he ruled over an
extensive kingdom stretching from Konkan in the west to Andhradesa in the
east. He issued among other types the ship-type potin coins indicative of his
rule over the maaritime province of the Coromandal coast.28
Thus it seems the Bhir district was under the influence of Satavahana
period. It has been noted that within about fifty years after Yajanasri
Satakarni, the rule of the Satavahanas came to an end in Circa A.D. 250.
Several small kingdoms arose in the extensive territory which was
previously under their rule. The Abniras rose to power in Western
Maharastra. An inscription of the Abhira king Isvarasena has been
discovered in a cave at Nisik. 29
Thus Satavahana period ended in this period. Bhir district was under
their influence. The Vakatakas established themselves firmly in Vidarbha. A
Saka family founded by Mana, which was previously subordinate to the
Satavahanas declared its independence and ruled in the southern parts of the
former Hyderabad State. 30
Thus Vakataka rule was powerful and part of Marathwada was also
under their influence. Pravarasena I, the second king in the Vakataka
dynasty, was a powerful and ambitious king. He performed one Rajasuva
and four Asvamedha sacrifices and extended his empire in all directions.
He may have conquered the northern part of Kuntala comprising Poona,
Ahmadnagar, Satara, Solapur, Bid and some other districts in the Deccan
though definite proof of this is lacking. He had four sons, who the Puranas
33 |
tell us all ruled over different kingdoms. Two of these are so far known - (1)
Gautamiputra, whose descendants ruled over north Vidarbha from their
capital Nandivardhana (Nandardhan near Nagpur) and (2) Sarvasena, who
ruled over south Vidarbha from Vatsagulma (modern Basim in the Akola
district). 31
Thus Vakataka period was effective and Bhir was also under the
period. Where the remaining two sons were ruling is not known. Perhaps,
one of them was ruling over north Kuntala including the Bid and other
districts. This branch has left us no records probably because it was soon
overthrown by the early Rastrakutas of Manapura to whose history we shall
now turn. 32
Thus the entire Bhir district was under the influence of Rasthtrakutas
which was a powerful dynasty. The history of this royal family has been
unfolded during the last few years. From three copper-plate grants which
have been discovered in Southern Maharastra we get the following
genealogy:-
Mananka
Devaraja
Mana alias Aridheya Bharisya
Vibhuraja Abhimanyu
Minanka, the progenitor of the family, flourished in Circa A.D. 400.
He founded Manapura, which he made his capital. He is described in one of
the grants as the ruler of the Kuntala country. As stated before, Kuntala was
the name of the upper Krsna valley in ancient times. The places mentioned in
one of the grants can be identified in the Satara district. These Early
Rastrakutas were, therefore, ruling over Kolhapur, Satara and Solapur
34 |
districts. Their capital Manapura is probably identical with Man, the
headquarters of the Man taluka of the Satara district.
These Rastrakutas sometimes came into conflict with the Vakatakas of
Vidarbha. The Pandarangapalli plates of Avidheya state that Mananka
defeated the rulers of Asmaka and Vidarbha. On the other hand an
inscription in Ajanra Cave XVI states that the Vakataka king Vindhyasena
(i.e. Vindhyasakti II) defeated the king of Kuntala, who was evidently of this
Early Rastrakuta family. 33
The Bhir district was under Rastrakuta rule. From certain passages in
the Kuntalesvaradautya, a Sanskrt work ascribed to Kalidasa, which have
been cited in the Kavyamimamsa of Rajasekhara, the Srngaraprakasa and the
Sarasvatikanthabharana of Bhoja and the Aucityavicaracarca of Ksemendra
we learn that the famous Gupta king Candragupta II-Vikramaditya sent
Kalidasa to the court of the lord of Kuntala. Kalidasa was not at first well
received there, but he gradually gained the Kuntalesa's favour ana stayed at
his court for some time. When he returned, he reported to Vikramaditya that
the lord of Kuntala was spending his time in enjoyment, throwing the
responsibility of governing the kingdom on him (i.e., Vikrama ditya). This
Kuntalesa was probably indentical with Devaraja, the son of Mananka.
Through the influence of Chandragupta II, the two royal families of the
South, viz., the Vakatakas and the early Rastrakutas were soon reconciled
with each other. Later, Harisena, the last known Vakataka king, raided
Kuntala and exacted a tribute from its king. It is noteworthy that in the story
of Visruta included ill the Dasakumaracarita, which seems to have had a
historical basis, the king of Kuntala appears as a feudatory of the Emperor of
Vidarbha. After the downfall of the Vakatakas, these early Rastrakutas
gained their independence. 34
The Rastrakuta peiod was effective for Bhir district. The Govind III‟s
Dharur coper plate has described donations of three villages Kanegaon,
35 |
Anegaon and Dhugaon to Bramhgaon who was running a Sanskrit School in
Balaji temple. 35
This is rich evidnce found in Bhir district. The Calukyas of
Badami rose to power in the first half of the sixth century A.D. The Badami
stone inscription of Pulakesin I, who is the first independent ruler of this
dynasty, is dated in A.D. 543. He made Vatapipuri (Badami) his capital and
performed the Asvamedha and several other Srauta sacrifices. He was
succeeded by his son Kirtivarman I. He made some conquests in South India
and is described as „the knight of destruction' to the Nalas (of the Baster
district) the Mauryas (of Konkan) and the Kadambas (of Vanavasi in North
Kanara).
When Kirtivarman I died, his son Pulakesin II was probably a minor.
So his younger brother Mangalesa succeeded him. He defeated Buddharaja,
the Kalacuri king, who was ruling in North. Maharastra, Konkan, Gujarat
and Malva, and also Svamiraja of the Calukya family, who was ruling over
the Revati-dvipa (modern Redi in Konkan) 36
Thus the area of Bhir district was under the Badami Chalukya‟s
influence. Champavati presses married to Bhir was known as
Champavatinagari. 37
Thus Bhir was a prominent part of Chalukya rule. The
city Dharmapuri was a temple city of Chalukya period. 38
Mangalesa‟s region ended in disaster and he lost his life in a civil war
with his nephew Pulakesin II. Just about that time the Calukya kingdom was
invaded from the north by one Govinda, who probably belonged to the
aforementioned Early Rastrakuta family. Pulakesin adopted conciliatory
measures in dealing with him as he was a powerful king. 39
Thus Chalukya period witnessed many changes and in this period Bhir
district was also ruled by Chalukya period. His descendants do not however,
seem to have held Southern Maharastra for a long time; for Pulakesin soon
annexed both the Southern and the Northern Maharastra and extended the
northern limit of his Empire to the bank of the Narnada. That he ousted the
36 |
Rastrakutas from Southern Maharastra is shown by the Satara plates of his
brother Visnuvardhana, which record the grant of a village on the southern
bank of the Bhima. 40
Thus Chalukya and Rastrakuta struggle was prominent in the
Maharashtra stae in those days. The Early Rastrakutas of Manapupa thus
disappear from history in the first quarter of the seventh century A.D. The
Asmaka country including the district of Bid was also annexed to the Empire
of Pulakesin II. Pulakesin II obtained a resounding victory over Harsa, the
lord paramount of North India. Thereafter he assumed the title Paramesvara
(Emperor). He defeated the rulers of several countries such as North Konkan,
Kosala (Chattisgad), Kalinga (Orissa), Pistapura (Pithapuram) and Kanci
(Canjeeverum). He made the Colas, the Keralas and the Pandyas his allies.
He became thus the undisputed lord of South India. 41
Pulkeshi‟s efforts were responsible for leading a strong empire and
Bhir was one of the districts of the Rashtrakuta period. During his rein the
Chinese pilgrim. Hiuen Tsang visited Maharastra. He has left us the
following graphic picture of the country and its people: “The soil is rich and
fertile. The climate is hot; the disposition of the people is honest and simple;
they are tall of stature and of a stern vindictive character. To their
benefactors they are grateful; to their enemies, relentless. If they are insulted,
they will risk their lives to avenge themselves. If they are asked to help one
in distress, they will forget themselves in their haste to render assistance. If
they are going to seek revenge, they first give their enemy a warning; then,
each being armed; they attack each other with spears. If a general loses a
battle, they do not inflict punishment, but present him with women's clothes,
and so he is driven to seek death for himself. Each time they are about to
engage in conflict, they intoxicate themselves with wine, and then one man
with a lance in hand will meet ten thousand and challenge them to fight.
Moreover, they inebriate many hundred heads of elephants, which rushing
37 |
forward in mass; trample everything down, so that no enemy can stand
before them. The king, in consequence of .possessing these men and
elephants, treats his neighbours with contempt. He is of the Ksatriya caste
and his name is Pulakesi." 42
Pulkeshi had established matrimonial relations with Bhir. Pulakefln
was killed in battle at Badami in Circa A.D. 642 by the Pallava king
Narasimhavarman, who conquered Vatapi (Badami) and assumed the title of
Vatapikonda. During the reign of Vikramaditya II, a descendant of Pulakesin
II, Gujarat was invaded by a formidable force of the Tajikas (Arabs). The
Navasari plates of Avanijanasraya Pulakesin, a prince of the Gujarat Calukya
family, give a graphic description of this battle. The Arabs had already
defeated the Saindhavas, the Kacchellas, the Cavotakas the Surastras, the
Mauryas and the Gurjaras and were attempting to penetrate into the
Daksinapatha, but Avanijansraya (Pulakesin) inflicted a crushing defeat on
the invaders. The Calukya Emperor then honoured Avanijanasraya with
several titles, one of which was Anivartaka-nivartayitr (the repellar of the
unrepellable). 43
Thus Chalukya‟s influence was on entire Deccan and Bhir was also
part of the empire. Kirtivarman II, the last of these Early Calukyas, was
defeated by the Rastrakuta prince Dantidurga some time before A.D. 754,
when he issued his Samangad plates. Kirtivarman continued to rule for a few
years more but he had lost the paramount position in the Deccan. Dantidurga
was the real founder of the Rastrakuta Imperial power. His Ellora Cave
inscription mentions five ancestors beginning with Dantivarman, but we
know nothing about their exploits. The family probably belonged to the
Aurangabad district where its earliest records have been found. The earlier
members of the family were probably feudatories of the Early Calukyas of
Badami. Dantivarman made extensive conquests. The Ellora cave inscription
records his victories over the rulers of Kanci, Kosala, Kalinga, Srisaila,
38 |
Malava, Tanka and Lata, but these do not all seem to have resulted in the
acquisition of new territory. His war elephants are said to have rent asunder
the banks of the Mahanadi, the Mahi and the Reva. Though there is much
exaggeration in the description of his conquests. There is no doubt that he
conquered Karnataka, Maharastra, Vidarbha and Gujarat. His capital was
Mayurakhandi which has not yet been definitely identified. Dantidurga was
succeeded. By his uncle Krsna I, who completed the former's conquests and
shattered completely the power of the Early Calukyas. He was not only a
great conqueror but also a great builder. He got the great Siva temple at
Ellora originally called Krsnesvara but now known as Kailasa cut out of
solid rock. It is one of the noblest monuments of India. A contemporary
inscription tells us that the great architect who excavated it was himself
surprised to see it and despaired of repeating the feat. 44
Thus in the Chalukya period Bhir enjoued important position. The
Rastrakuta family produced several great conquerors, which boldly invaded
north and south India and achieved memorable victories. Dhruva (A.D. 780-
793) was the first among them. He defeated both the Gurjara-Pratihara king
Vatsaraja and the Pala king Dharmapala who were contending for supremacy
in North India and pressed as far as the Doab. Since then the two sacred
rivers Ganga and Yamuna began to appear on the Rastrakuta banner.
Govinda Ill, the son and successor of Dhruva, proved to be a still greater
conqueror. After obtaining an easy victory over the Ganga king Muttarasa
ruling in Gangavadi, he led victorious campaigns in Central and Northern
India. He first defeated the Gurjara-Pratihara prince Nagabhata and his ally
Candragupta in Central India and then routed Dharmapala of Bengal, who
had espoused the cause of Cakrayudha of Kanauj. He marched victoriously
to the north until his horses drank and his elephants plunged themselves into
the spring waters of the Himalayas. He then returned to the Narmada and
marching along the bank of the river, he conquered the Malava, Kosala,
39 |
Kalinga, Vanga, Dahala and Odra countries. He then spent the rainy season
at Sribhavana (modern Sarbhon in Gujarat) and afterwards marched with his
forces to the bank of the Tungabhadra. Using Alampura (or Helapura) on the
bank of the river as his base, he led his campaigns against the Keralas, Colas,
Pandyas and Pallavas. Even the king of Lanka submitted to him, sending
statues one of himself and the other of his minister to his camp at Helapura.45
A copper-plate grant of Govinda III was found at Dharur in the Bid
district. It is dated in the Saka year 728 (AD. 806) and records the donation
of the village Anahe situated in the visaya (district) of Dharaura and bounded
by the villages of Aivaccha, Dhani, Vauji and Ananta. The villages can be
identified in Bid district. Dharaura is evidently Dharur and Anahe is
Aneganv about 14 miles south-cast of Dharur. Aivaccha, Dhani-grama,
Vauji-grama and Ananta-grama are respectively identical with Avasganv,
Dhaneganv Bavaci Kaij and Anandganv. Several other grants of Govinda III
have been found in Vidarbha.
Govinda III was succeeded by his son Sarva-Amoghavarsa I, who was
a man of peaceful disposition, but whose reign was full of troubles. He
shifted his capital to Manyakheta. He had to fight with the Eastern Calukyas
of Vengi, the Gangas of Gangavadi and his own relatives in Gujarat. He
loved and encouraged Science and literature, and treated all religions with
equal reverence. He voluntarily retired from public administration to engage
himself in religious pursuits. On one occasion he offered a finger of his hand
to the Goddess Mahalaksmi of Kolhapur to ward off a public calamity. Such
instances are rare in the history of any country. 46
Amoghavarsa was father of Jain religion and he was able to carve out
Ellora Jain caves. Another noteworthy king in the Rastrakuta family was
Indra III, the great-grandson of Amoghavarsa I. Like his illustrious ancestors
Dhruva and Govinda III, Indra also led victorious campaigns in North India.
He followed the route of Bhopal, Jhansi and Kalpi in the course of his
40 |
invasion of Kanauj, the Imperial capital of India for more than three hundred
years. At Kalpi his army was encamped in the court-yard of the temple of the
Sun-god Kalapriyanatha, well-known to Sanskrtists as the place where all
the plays of the Sanskrt dramatist Bhavabhuti were staged. His horses
crossed the Yamuna at Kalpi and then marched on Kanauj which he
completely devastated. The Gurjara-Pratihara king Mahipala fled to Mahoba
to seek the help of his Candella feudatory Harsa Indra III's northern
campaign was a memorable event unparalleled for its brilliance in the history
of the Rastrakutas. Recently a grant of Indra III, made on the occasion of his
coronation, has been found at Jambaganv in the Gangapur taluka of the
Aurangabad district. It is dated in the Saka year 836 (A.D. 915) and records
the donation of the village Khairondi near Pratisthana. It is identical with the
village Khirai near Paithan. The boundary villages Nandauraka and Pippala
can be identified in its vicinity. They are respectively identical with Agar
Nandur, and Pippalvadi. Indra III was succeeded by his son Amoghavarsa II,
but he died within a year and was followed by his younger brother Govinda
IV. The latter was known for his liberality and rightly had the biruda
Suvarnvarsa (the gold-rainer). On the occasion of his coronation he donated
six hundred agrahara villages and three lakhs of gold coins to Brahmanas
and eight villages, four lakhs of gold coins and thirty-two lakhs of silver
coins (drammas) to temples. Recently, another copper-plate grant of his,
dated in the Saka year 851 (AD. 929), has been discovered at the village
Andura in the Akola district of Vidarbha. It records the donation of the
village Elauri (modem Erali near the Nandur station on the Central Railway).
Most of the boundary villages can be identified in its vicinity. The
Rastrakutas of Manyakheta and the Kalacuris of Tripuri were matrimonially
connected and their relations were generally cordial. But in the reign of
Govinda IV they became strained. The Kalacuri king Yuvarajadeva I
41 |
espoused the cause of his son-in-law Baddiga-Amoghavarsa III, the uncle of
Govinda IV, and sent a large army to invade the Rastrakuta dominion.47
When it reached the Payosni (modern Purna), a pitched battle was
fought near Acalapura between the Kalacuri and Rastrakuta forces in which
the former became victorious. This event is commemorated in the. Sanskrt
play Viddhasalabhanjika of Rajasekhara, which was staged at Tripuri in
jubilation at this victory.48
Thus Rastrakuta period was effective in Western India. Bhir and
Dharur were parts of the Rastrakuta Empire in the Deccan in general and
Maharashtra in particular. The Rastrakuta feudatories who rose in rebellion
against Govinda IV deposed him and placed his uncle Baddiga-
Amoghavarsa III on the throne. He was a man of quiet nature and spiritual
temperament, who left the administration entirely to his ambitious and able
son Krsna IIL. Like some of his illustrious ancestors Krsna even as yuvaraja
led an expedition in North India and captured the forts of Kalanjara and
Citrakuta. He succeeded his father in A.D. 939. He then led an expedition
against the Colas and defeated them in a sanguinary battle at Takkolam in
the North Arcot district. He next led his victorious arms to Ramesvaram,
where he built two temples. Hearing of his resounding victories, the kings of
Kerala, Pandya and Ceylon submitted to him. He also placed his own
nominee on the throne of Vengi. He became thus the lord paramount of the
whole of South India. 49
The Rastrakuta were powerful in the entire Deccan and South India.
The Rastrakeita power became weak after the death of Krsna III. Within
eight years his large empire crumbled like a house of cards. Taila II, the
founder of the Later Calukya dynasty, who was a Mahasamanta of the
Rastrakutas, suddenly came into prominence. He defeated and killed in
battle Karka II, the last Rastrakuta king, and captured his capital
Manyakheta. He had to fight against the Colas, the Pandyas and the
42 |
Paramaras. The Paramara king Vakpati-Munja planned to invade the
Calukya dominion, but his wise minister Rudraditya advised him not to cross
the Godavari which was the boundary between the Calukya and Paramara
dominions. Munja did not heed his advice and was taken captive by Tailapa.
He was placed in a prison and was waited upon by Tailapa's sister
Marnalavati. He fell in love with her and foolishly disclosed to her the plan
of his escape. She communicated it to Tailapa, who is said to have made
him beg from door to door and then beheaded him. 50
Thus in the Rastrakuta period art, culture and literature also flourished
a great deal. Among the successors of Tailapa I, the most famous is
Vikramaditya VI, the founder of the Calukya-Vikrama Samvat. He ascended
the throne in A.D. 1076. He had to fight against the Colas, the Calukyas of
Gujarat and the Hoysalas and signally defeated them. He also led an
expedition against Vengi. Two inscription of his reign have been found in
Vidarbha. One of them called the Sitabaldi pillar inscription seems to have
originally belonged to the Vindhyasana hill at Bhandak in the Canda district.
It is dated in the Saka year 1008 (A.D. 1087) and registers the grant of some
nivartanas of land for the grazing of cattle, made by a dependant of a
feudatory called Dhadibhandaka. The other inscription was discovered at
Dongarganv in the Yavatmal district. It sheds interesting light on the history
of the Paramara dynasty. It shows that Jagaddeva, the youngest son of the
Paramara king Udayaditya, the brother of Bhoja, left Malva and sought
service with Vikrarmaditya VI, who welcomed him and placed him in charge
of some portion of Western Vidarbha. This inscription is dated in the Saka
year 1034 (A.D. 1112). Another inscription of this Paramara prince
Jagaddeva has come to notice at Jainad in the Adilabad district of Andhra
Pradesa. It records several victories of Jagaddeva in Andhra and
Dorasamudra and near the Arbuda Mountain and registers the construction
of a temple of Nimbaditya by his minister Lolarka. 51
43 |
These epigraphic evidences speak about glory of the period.
Vikramaditya's reign is renowned on account of some learned men who
flourished at his court. Bilhana, who was patronised by him, wrote the
Vikramankadevacarita, which is his poetical biography. Another famous
author who flourished at his court was Vijnanesvara, the author of the well-
known commentary Mitaksara on the Yajnavalkyasmrti. The decline of the
Calukya power commenced soon after the reign of Vikramaditya VI. Tailapa
III, the last Calukya king, was overthrown by the Kalacuri Bijjala, who was
his Commander-in-Chief, in A.D. 1157. The Kalacuri usurpation lasted for
about two decades. Bijjala's reign is noted for the rise of the Lingayat Sect.
In the last quarter of the twelfth century A.D. the Yadavas of Devagiri came
into prominence. They had been ruling over Seunadesa (Khandes) in an
earlier period as feudatories of the Later Calukyas, but Bhillama, the son of
Mallugi, declared his independence and soon made himself master of the
whole territory north of the Krsna. He then founded the city of Devagiri,
which he made his capital. His son Jaitrapala killed Rudradeva of the
Kakatiya dynasty on the field of battle and released his nephew Ganapati
whom he had put into prison. Under Jaitrapala‟s son Singhana, the power of
the family greatly increased. We get considerable information about him
from the four stone inscriptions of his general Kholesvara, found at
Ambejogai in the Bid district. Kholesvara was a native of Vidarbha, but was
residing at Ambe where he has left his inscriptions. Some more details are
furnished by a later copper-plate grant of Ramacandra found at
Purusottampuri in the Bid district. 52
Thus all these records are significant to throw light on history of Bhir.
Singhana achieved several victories. He defeated the Hoysala king Vira-
Ballala, the Kakatiya king Galiapati and Laksmideva, the lord of
Bhambhagiri, modern Bhamer in the Pimpalner of the Dhulia district. He
confined Bhoja II or the Silahara family on the hill of Pranala, i.e., Panhala;
44 |
a strong fort about 12 miles to the north-west of Kolhapur. Most of these
victories were won by his Brahman general Kholesvara. The latter
vanquished also Arjunavarmadeva, king of Malva, and even pressed as far
north as Varanasi, where he put Ramapala to flight. Kholesvara constructed
several temples in Vidarbha and also established agraharas on the banks of
the Payosni (modern Purna) and the Varada (modern Wardha). The former
agrahara still exists under the name of the village Kholapur in the Amravati
district. 53
Kholesvara belonged to Ambajogai and he had established this
glorious temple. 54
Singhana was succeeded by his grandson Krsna, who obtained
victories over the kings of Gurjara, Malava, Cola and Kosala. The Gurjara
king was Visaladeva and the Malava ruler was Jaitugideva. The
contemporary Cola king was Rajendra III (1246-79). The Kosala king was
evidently the contenfporary ruler of Ratanpur in Chattisgadh, who was
probably the successor of Jajalladeva defeated by Singhana but no records of
his reign have yet been recovered. An inscription of the reign of Krsna has
been found in the temple of Khandesvara on a hillock on the outskirts of the
village Nandganv in the Amravati district. It is dated in the Sata year 1177
(A.D. 1254-55) and records the donations of some gadyyanakas for the
offerings of flowers in the temple of Khandesvara. Krsna was succeeded by
his brother Mahadeva. From the recently discovered Kaleganv plates we
know the exact date of his coronation as 29th August A.D. 1261. The most
notable event of his reign is the annexation of North Konkan after defeating
Somesvara of the Silahara dynasty. He left the throne to his son Amana, but
the latter was soon deposed by Krsna's son Ramacandra, who captured the
impregnable fort of Devagiri by means of a coup d‟etat. He won several
victories mentioned in the Purusottampuri plates dated in the Saka year 1232
(A.D. 1310). He is said to have defeated with ease the ruler of Dahala (i.e.,
45 |
the Cedi country with the capital Tripuri), subjugated the ruler of
Bhandagara (modern Bhandara in Vidarbha), and dethroned the king of
Vijrakara (modern Vairagadh). He is further credited with a victory over the
Muhammedans, whom he drove out from Varanasi where he built a golden
temple dedicated to Sarangapani. His minister Purusottama received from
him the grant of four villages, which he formed into an agrahara and donated
to several Brahmanas on the holy clay of Kapilasasthi in the Saka year 1232
(A.D. 1310). The agrahara was named Purushottamapuri after the donor. It
is still extant under its original name on the southern bank of the Godavari,
about 40 miles due west from Parbhani. The village together with their
boundaries can still be identified in the vicinity of Purushottampuri. 55
Thus many cities in Bhir district became prominent in the period. A
fragmentary inscription of the time of Ramacandra is built into the front wall
of the temple of Laksmana on the hill of Ramtek. In the first half it gives the
genealogy of Ramacandra and in the second half it describes the temples,
wells and tirthas on and in the vicinity of the hill, which it names as
Ramagiri. The object of the inscription seems to have been to record the
repairs clone to the temple of Laksmana by Raghava, a minister of
Ramacandra.
In A.D. 1294 Ala-ud-din Khilji invaded the kingdom of Ramcandra
and suddenly appeared before the gates of Devagiri. Ramacandra was taken
unawares and could not hold out for long. He had to pay a large ransom to
the Muslim conqueror. He continued, however, to rule till A.D. 1310 at least;
for the aforementioned Purusottamapuri plates are, dated till that year. He
was succeeded by his son Sankaradeva sometime in A.D. 1311. He
discontinued sending the stipulated tribute to Delhi. He was then defeated
and slain by Malik Kafur. Some time thereafter Harapaladeya, the son-in-law
of Ramacandra, raised an insurrection and drove away the Muhammedans,
46 |
but his success was short-lived. The Hindu kingdom of Devagiri thus came
to an end in A.D. 1318. 56
Thus all these inscriptions speak about glory of Yadava period. Like
their illustrious predecessors, the Yadavas also extended liberal patronage to
art and literature. During their rule a peculiar style of architecture called
Hemadpanti after Hemadri or Hemadpant, a minister of Mahadeva and
Ramacandra, came into vogue. Temples built in this style are found in all
districts of Maharastra. Several learned scholars flourished at the Yadava
Court. Of them Hemadri was the foremost. During the reign of Mahadeva he
held the post of Srikaranadhipa or Head of the Secretariat. He was appointed
Minister and Head of the Elephant force by Ramacandra. He was as brave as
he was learned and liberal. He conquered and annexed to the Yadava
kingdom the eastern part of Vidarbha called Jhadi-mandala. Hemadri is well
known as the author.of the Caturvargacintamani comprising five parts, viz.,
(I) Vratakhanda (2) Danakhanda, (3) Tirthakhanda (4) Moksakhanda and (5)
Paarisesakhanda. Of these the third and fourth khandas have not yet come to
light. Hemadri's work is held in great esteem and has been drawn upon by
later writers on Dharmasastra. Hemadri wrote on other subjects as well. He
is the author of a commentary on Saunaka's Pranavakalpa and also of a
Sraddhakalpa, in which he follows Katyayana. His Ayurvedarasayana, a
commentary on Vagbhata's Astangahrdaya, and Kaivalyadipika, a gloss on
Bopadeva's Muktaphala are also well known. 57
Thus Yadavas of Deogiri were prosperous and Hemadri had
established Hemadpanthi sytle of temples architecture. Hemadri extended
liberal patronage to learned men. Among his proteges the most famous was
Bopadeva. He was a native of Vedapada (modern Bedod) on the bank of the
Wardha in the Adilabad district of the former Hyderabad State. Bopadeva is
said to have written ten works on Sanskrt grammar, nine on medicine, one
for the determination of tithis, three on poetics and an equal number for the
47 |
elucidation of the Bhagavata doctrine. Only eight of these are now extant.
The Mugdhabodha, his work on Sanskrt grammar, is very popular in Bengal.
Marathi literature also flourished in the age of the Yadavas. Cakradhara, who
propagated the Mahanubhava cult in that age, used Marathi as the medium of
his religious teachings. Following his example, several of his followers
composed literary works in Marathi. They are counted among the first works
of Marathi literature. Mukundaraja, the author of the Vedantic works
Vivekasindhu and Paramamrta, and Jnanesvara, the celebrated author of the
Bhavarthadipika a commentary on the Bhagavadgita, are the most illustrious
writers of the age. 58
Thus it is interesting to note that Marathi literature founded in the
Yadava period. Bhir distict also was very prominent. Many saints and poets
were in this period. Mukundraj held western Vidarbha during this period was
also a writer in this period. M.G.P. has given a graphic account of the growth
of education, literature and prosperity during the period.
Review of historical development:
Thus from pre historical times to 12th
Century A.D., Bhir district has a
continuous history.
In the early historical period Satavahana dynasty flourished
After Satavahana Vakataka and Chalukyas established their rule in
Bhir district
Rarastsrakuta and Yadava‟s had their powerful contribution with Bhir.
During Chalukya, Rastrakuta and Yadava period temples were
constructed and Satavahana were also carved.
3.2. Summary:
Thus it is clear that; from early historical period to 12th
century the rise
of Bhir district had constant and continuous history and during this period
art, architecture and literature flourished effectively. All these facts can be
clearly illustrated in this work. The study of inscriptions revealed and
48 |
architecrure clearly shows that Bhir was came up as powerful center in the
history of Deccan. Thus the entire historical sketch clearly shows that the
Bhir district had a continuous historial evolution. The art was glorious and
rich in Bhir district as well as literature which are evident on the basis of
aarchological and historical sources.
References:
1. Navagana Mahatmya p-21
2. Bhir District Gazeteer p-31
3. Patagakar Vidyasagar “History of saints and prophets”, pp-4-5
4. Bhir District Gazeteer, p-31
5. Ibid., p-31
6. Rugveda, 179.4.
7. Bhir District Gazetteer, p-32
8. Ibid p-32, E.I.Vol. XXV, p-7
9. C.F.Suhanipatta, Paryanavaggo L. Vathugatha, V, p-2
10. Ctt Vol V. pp-12-13
11. Mirashi V.V. “Studies in the Indology” Vol. I, p-9
12. E.I. Vol. VI, pp-1 f
13. Bhir District Gazetter p-33
14. Munshi S.I. Vol.I pp-109 f
15. D.K.A, p-38
16. Ibid., p-38
17. E.I. Vol. VIII, pp-93
18. Mirashi S.I. Vol. III, p-46
19. Bhir District Gazetteer p-34
20. Munshi S.I. Vol. I, p-123
21. India Vol. I, p-76
22. Bhir Dist Gazetteer p-35
23. EPI, Vol. VIII., p-71
49 |
24. Bhir District Gazetteer, p-35
25. E.I.Vol. VIII, p-60
26. Mirashi S.I. Vol. III,, p37
27. JNSI Voll. 14 p-1 f
28. Bhir District Gazetteer p-36
29. Ibid., p-36
30. Mirashi S.I. Vol. III, p-56
31. Mirashi CCI Vol. V, p-20
32. Bhir District Gazetteer p-36
33. Ibid., p-37
34. Ibid., p-37
35. Marathwada University Journal, 1964, article by M.S.Gore
36. MVK Vol. p-647
37. Ibid.
38. Mirashi S.I. Vol. I, p-188,
39. Ind Ant. Vol. XIX, pp-303 f
40. EP Ind. Vol. VI, pp-1 f
41. S. Beal, Buddhist Records of the Western World, vol. IV, pp-448
42. Mirashi CII Vol. IV, p-ixiv
43. Ibid., p-40
44. Mirashi S.I. Vol. II, p-211
45. Ibid., p-41
46. Ep. Ind. vol. XVIII pp-248
47. Bhir District Gazetteer, p-42
48. Ibid., p-42
49. Ibid., p-42
50. EP India Vol. III, p-304 f, Ind V.No. XXII p-54
51. Ep.Ind. Vol. XXV pp-199
52. Bhir Dist. Gazetteer p-44
50 |
53. LilacharitraV.B.Kale, 1971,
54. Bhir Dist Gazetter, p-
55. Ep India Vol. No. XXV, p-199
56. Beed District Gazetteer
57. Ibid.,
58. Bhir District Gazetteer
51 |
CHAPTER IV
ARCHEOLOGICIAL PROFILE OF BHIR DISTRICT- PRE HISTORY
AND PRO HISTORY
4.1. Introduction 4.2. Surveyed sites 4.3. Inferences drawn 4.4. Excavations 4.5. Summary
52 |
CHAPTER IV
ARCHEOLOGICIAL PROFILE OF BHIR DISTRICT
- PRE HISTORY AND PRO HISTORY
4.1. Introduction:
Archeology deals about ancient past and it also explains various
dimensions based on explorations and excavations. All these aspects can be
very well studied here.
The reports based on Indian archeology a review have been used here
on right links. The following information is available here:
In the year 1865, Vayae, French geologist discovered Stone Age
remains at village Mungi, Taluka Paithan Dist. Aurangabad. This is the
oldest evidence of stone-age remains in the Marathwada region. Later on
Dr.P.N. Kamble has also discussed some important remains in the Bhir
district. They belonged to late stone-age as well as Chalukya period which
can be noted here.
History of Bhir began from early and late stone-age tools. It has been
rightly stated that “Not much work from the point of view of archeology and
history has been done in this district. Few attempts of the schools have
brought to light stone tools of lower Palaeolithic and middle Palaeolithic
period, but these are the stray find only to suggest the very existence of
Palaeolithic man in this region.1
The study of all these remains is very important. Dr. P.N. Kamble has
surveyed some useful sites.
4.2. Surveyed Sites:
Chalcolithic site Danvanta, Dist: Bhir.
P.N. Kamble and K.P.S. Bhadoria of the South Western circle of the
survey discovered a chalcolithic site in Gevrai taluka on the left bank of the
53 |
River Sindphana and collected Sherdas of painted pottery, handmade grey,
black and red and thin red slipped wares and pieces of shell bangles and ear
pendants.2 These Chalcolithic remains testify good deal of evidences which
is very significant in this connection.
Chalcolithic and early historical site, Hingangaon, Dist: Bhir:
P.N. Kamble and K.P.S. Bhadoria of the South Western Circle of the
Survey located a Chalcolithic site at Hingangaon on the right bank of the
river Sindphana. Mierolithics such as flakes, cores and blades made of chert,
handmade grey wares; black and red ware, red shipped ware and stamped
sherds of an early historical period and Mogul Maratha pottery and kiln
brunt bricks were also collected from the site. 3
Thus all these evidences
provide us useful details about the early historical traditions. The ancient
Bhir had thus early and late Stone Age remains.
4.3. Inferences Drawn:
On the basis of the above remains it is clear that Bhir was habited right
from stone-age. In the Balaghat arranges good deal of early and late stone-
age tools were found and they speak about the archeological past. In the
Godavari valley of Bhir district there is a need to conduct more scientific and
systematic explorations for knowing about these remains.
4.4. Excavations:
There are no excavations conducted in Bhir district and hence much
cannot be expressed here about archeological past of early period.
In the Chalcolithic period pottery of Jorwe culture is found and it has a
continuous tradition of the past revealed here.
Potsherds: District Bhir:
P.N. Kamble and K. P.S. Bhadoria of the South Western Circle of the
Survey collected Chalcolithic potsherds from Mankapuri, bout half a km.
away from left bank of the River Sindphana. 4
54 |
These remains help a great deal to reconstruct the Chalcolithic history
neatly. About pre historic and pro historic period some important
observations can be made here. It has been observed that “In the pre historic
and pro historic period people had to struggle for existence.”
In the late stone-age many human settlements were noticed on the
bank of river Bindusara.5 In comparison to early stone-age human
settlements were thick in late stoneage.6 About the Chalcolithic age it has
been noted that the socio economic development was rapid in the period.7
Further the chalcolithic rule in the Bhir district was also remarkable. Prof.
V.L. Dharurkar has jotted down the details about the cultural sequence to in
the history of beed and its surroundings valley.8
In the chalcolithic culture pots and pottery were well developed on
Bindusara River. 9
The Pre-historical Period:
In the early historical period the Satavahana period was also rich. The
remains of pottery formed a good deal in the Satavahana period.10
In the
early historic period of Satavahana bricks were prepared and they were well
packed.
List of Villages in Bhir district:
Year Type Late stone age Pro history
1865 Chalcolithic Danvanta, Bhir
1865 Chalcolithic Hingangaon, Bhir
1865 Postsherds Mankapuri, Bhir
4.5. Summary:
Thus on the basis of the above table it is clear that the pre history and
pro history of stoneage period is not explained thoroughly. Very recently
village to village survey scheme has been launched and very few sites have
been identified.
55 |
However, it can be stated that there is lot of scope for the study of pre
history and pro history in the Bhir district.
References:
1. P.N. Kamble, “Indian Aarcheology – A Review, 1984, p-150
2. Ibid.,
3. I.A. A Review 1984, p-150
4. IAR Ind. p-151
5. IA: A Review 1984-85, p-151
6. Kandhare Vishwas, “Bhir a Cultural Study”, p-45
7. Ibid., p-45
8. Ibid., p-45
9. Dharurkar V.L. “Chalcolithic Culture in Indus Valley” p-98
10. Kandhare Vishwas, op cit., p-45
56 |
CHAPTER V
ARCHEOLOGY OF HISTORICAL SITES
5.1. Introduction
5.2. Historical dynamics
5.3. Cave temples
5.4. Review of historical analysis
5.5. Summary
57 |
CHAPTER V
ARCHEOLOGY OF HISTORICAL SITES
5.1. Introduction:
In this chapter a detailed report of important archeological sites in the
Bhir district has been provided. The study is related to historical period
beginning from Satavahana and ending up to Yadava period. About
archeology of historical age Dr. S.B. Deo has noted that archeology of early
historical period is full of many challenges.1 In the Satavahana period sites
such as Paithan, Bhokardhan and Ter have been excavated which have
thrown light on early historical period. 2
Very recently excavation at Ter has
also been conducted by Solapur University. The report of the same has been
published in newspapers.3 This has revealed that Satavahana potteries,
terracotta and bids have also been found at Ter. The area of Bhir district was
also under the rule of Satavahana. In Sandarbha Maharashtra it has been
noted that “Satavahanas are said to have come to rule in the latter half of the
3rd
century B>C.” 4
Further he has observed that “Their rule extended rapidly
over the Dakshinpath area south to Narmada and Bhir district was under
their sway, Satavahanas ruled for almost 600 years. Paithan was their capital
in the later period probably after 150 AD or so.”5 Further the ivory figures
found at Ter and Bhokardhan is compared to pompy figures. In Ellora P.N.
Kamble has discovered some Satavahana bricks before Kailas temple.6 In
this chapter some historical remains of Satavahana, Vatataka, Chalukya,
Rastrakuta and Yadava period have been presented.
5.2. Historical Dynamics:
After Satavahana period Bhir was ruled by Vakataka dynasty. It has
been pointed that “In and around first quarter of 4th
century AD, Vakatavas
came to power. In between end of Satavahanas and emergence of Vakatakas,
58 |
Ahhirs were ruling over north-west part of Maharashtra and southern part of
Gujarat but their rule never extended beyond present Nasik district and who
was the master of the region of the Bhir district is not known today.7 It has
been further observed that “Pravarasena I, the second king in the Vakataka
dynasty, was a powerful and ambitious king. He performed one Rajasuya
and four Asvamedha sacrifies and extended his empire in all directions. He
may have conquered the northern part of Kuntala comprising Poona,
Ahmednagar, Satara, Solapur, Bhir and some other districts in the Deccan
though definite proof of his is lacking.” 8
This Bhir was part of Kunthala
region in Vakataka period and it also assumed the benefits of Gupta
Vakataka period in the golden age. About the other dynasty that ruled Bhir
was Chalukya‟s Badami. It has been noted that “Chalukyas of Badami were
extending their power towards north. They entered into western Maharashtra
but we do not have any direct proof of having their sway of Bhir region.”9
However, scholars like Dr. Deo and Degloorkar do not ascribed this opinion.
Many scholars have noted that Dharmapuri was another temple city in the
Bhir district of the Chalukya period.10
The remains of Kedareshwar temple in
Dharmapuri speak of this glory.
The other dynasty that ruled over Bhir. It has been rightly observed
that “Dantidurga was the real founder of the Rastrakuta imperial power. His
Ellora cave inscription mentions five ancestors beginning with Dantivrman,
but we know nothing about their exploits.”11
Dantidurga belonged to
Luktalul or Latur to-day. Hence we can imagine that Bhir being on the way
of Latur to Aurangabad might have been under control of Rastrakutas. The
Dharur copper plate of Govinda II also is a testimony of Rashtrakuta‟s
influence over Bhir.12
Dr. Gore first Librarian of Marathwada University has
published Dharur plates in 1962 issue of Marathwada University Journal.
After Rashtrakutas rather the indications are to pointers towards the rule of
Rastrakutas and because of their powerful existence Dantidurga of
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Rashtrakuta family could bring to an end the rule of Chalukyas in the first
quarter of 18th
Century A.D. and established imperial power of Rashtrakutas
first in central Maharashtra and few years later over Deccan.”13
Rashtrakutas remained powerful till mid of 10th
century with Taila II of later
Chalukyas of Kalyani (presently Bidar district) became the master of the
Deccan.” 14
Bhir was also under their influence for two centuries. It has been
rightly observed that “This did not last long. On the political horizon
Yadavas of Chandradityapur were becoming powerful but as the Feaudatory
of Rastrakutas and though later Chalukyas came to rule Yadavs were never
friendly with them. Later Chalukyas become weak in the second half of 12th
century A.D. Yadavs grabbed the opportunity to become a master of
Maharashtra and then whole of Deccan.” 15
In the Yadava period Bhir
enjoyed an important position. Many Hemadpanthi temples were established
in this period. Kholeshwar General of Yadava king belonged to Ambajogai.
Near Manjarsumbha, there is a site known as Poicha Deo. 16
Further Yasdava
King Jayatrapal had requested Mukundraj to guide him and in the same line
Mukundraj wrote Viveksinghu, a first book on poetry in Marathi language,
who belonged to city Ambajogai. 17
Thus above historical dynamics shows
that right from Satavahana period to Yadava period number of monuments,
temples, cave temples, structural temples, forts, and step wells were
constructed in the Yadava period. A brief review of all these structures has
been undertaken below:
5.3. Cave Temples:
5.3.1. Jogai Caves:
The Jogai caves are the only caves in Bhir district. There is a
controversy among the scholars about the period of the caves. Many of them
have fixed Rastrakuta period (1066 AD) as the period of the excavation of
these caves.It is stated that Rashtrakuta King Udayaditya had donated
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villages Selu, Radi, Jalgaon, and Kumbehal for the maintenance of these
caves. These caves belonged to Shiva, Vishnu as well as Jain faith.18
However, some later part might have been carved in the Yadava period.
Ambajogai was the prominent center of Yadava king Singhandeva, who‟s
General Kholeshwar, held from Ambajogai. 19
5.3.2. Jogai Maher or Hattikhana Caves:
Hardly half a kilometre to the north-west of Yogeshwari temple,
along the banks of the river Jayanti are situated what are popularly known
as Hattikhana caves. The river with hills in the back-ground provides an
excellent setting. The caves are squarish in shape and are carved deep
inside the hill. On the southern side of the hill is the entrance, hewn out of
rock, leading into the 13.71 metres (45') broad and 27.43 metres (90')
long sabhamandap. It is 32 pillared and spacious enough to provide sitting
accommodation to over 1,000 persons. The mandap has an 8.36 m2
(90 ft.
square) court-yard in front. Facing the caves, at the entrance there are two
huge elephant statues. Similar statues are also found on either side of the
entrance to the sabhamandap. The images of these elephants probably
gave the caves their name, viz., the Hattikhana caves. In the centre of the
court-yard there is an elegantly carved nandimandap measuring 9.14x9.14
metres (30'x30'). In the centre of this mandap there is an image
of nandi. A portion of the mandap on the eastern side has collapsed and
now lies amidst ruins. In the wall in front of the nandi image, to the east of
the sabhamandap, in a temple of the shape of a tunnel an idol of Sarikar is
seen. An inscription found here describes this idol as Bhucarinath. The
same inscription dated Saka 1066 records the grant of the villages of Sailu,
Radi, Javalganv and Kumbhephal as inams for the maintenance of these
caves by the Rastrakuta king Udayaditya who was
a mahamandalesvar. This inscription has been removed to the tahsildar's
office at Ambejogai for safe custody and preservation. There are figures of
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bodyguards and goddesses carved on the entrance door, to the right, there
are two more carved temples which house the images of Ganapati and his
brother Sadanan respectively. These are partly broken now. On the walls
are carved in relief the images of Siva in tandavanrtya posture, pictures
depicting Sivalila, the Saptamatrkas and that of a cock. In another
identical temple is the image of Parvati. In the wall to the south of
the sabhamandap there are two more caves. In the wall to the north, a tank
has been built while in the north-west corner there is a tirthkund.
The legend current about the cock image tells that Amba came
down from Aparanta (Konkan) along with all her paraphernalia to marry
Parali- Vaijanath, and camped in the place where the caves are situated. A
propitious moment was fixed for the divine union. Next morning on
hearing the cock's crow it was found that the fixed time had passed by.
The marriage could not take place and hence instead of going back to
Konkan, Amba stayed and settled at Mominabad along with the other gods
who had accompanied her. The cave images depict Amba and all the other
gods who had accompanied her. Because of Amba's stay here the caves
came to be called as Jogai Maher. Legends aside, the layout of the caves
or of what remain of them depict the skilled artistry of the people of those
times. Now there is nothing exuberant or spectacular about the caves. The
ravages of time have destroyed what was once a pleasing sequence to the
eye and imagination. However, as an historical site of Rashtrakuta Yadava
period, the Jogai caves are certainly a land mark in the history and
archeology. Some of the later part of the caves might have been completed
in the early Yadava period.
5.4. Structural Temples:
5.4.1. Kankalesvar Temple:
On the eastern bank of the Bendsura River, at a furlong‟s (201 km.)
distance, in the centre of a lake, stands the temple of Kankalesvar
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unrivalled in beauty and magnificence. It is the finest temple in Bid in
design and workmanship and its beauty is all the more heightened by
virtue of its being in the centre of a lake full of water. There is only one
path-way to reach the temple. It is supposed to date back from the times of
Yadavas and the architectural style used in the temple bears testimony to
this contention.
5.4.2. Jata Shankar Temple
The said temple is situated in the heart of the town. It is said that
when Prabhu Ramchandra was helplessly wandering in search of Sita, he
found Jatau Bird in wounded condition. The bird tried to release Sita from
the custody of Lankapti Ravana who fatally wonded the bird. The bird told
Rama the story of Sita kidnapping and the bird died at the feet of Rama.
Then Prabhu Ramchandra did funeral and established Jata Shankar near
Jata Shankar temple. There is famous Ganesh temple also.
5.4.3. Nagnath Temple at Village Pali
Pali is a small village in Bid tahsil lying about 4.82 km. (three
miles) from Bid. It is known for the shrine of Nagnath, built
in Hemadpanti style. It has an open courtyard and is surrounded by a
0.609 metre (2 ft.) high parapet wall. The sabhamandap is octagonal in
shape and has 16 pillars, of which 8 are embedded in the eight corners.
The walls have lattice-work upon them. In the centre of the hall there is a
flint-stone image of nandi. The gabhara is a sort of a circular cell reached
by descending a small flight of steps. The ling has a facial plaque of brass
of Mahadev planted upon it and is sheltered by a five hooded cobra image
made of the same metal. Its sikhar has a gold plated spire. Above the
entrance door to the mandap a cement canopy has been constructed and in
it are set the images of Sankar with trisul in hand, and Ganapati and
Parvati to his right and left respectively. In the court-yard there is a tulsi
vrndavan. To the right of the temple there is a well, while at the back a
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squarishtirthkund with stone steps all round it. The Bendsura River
emanates from the hill in Bid tahsil and flows through that tahsil towards
north and joins the river Sindphana. A dam has recently been constructed
across it near this village at a total cost of Rs. 58.82 lakhs. The net area
irrigated would be 3.369 hectares (8,324 acres).
5.4.4. Yelamb Ghat:
Yelamb Ghat, with a population of 5,562 in 1961, is a village in Bid
tahsil with a temple of Mahadev and a dargah of local importance. It has a
post office, a middle school and a medical practitioner. Weekly bazar is
held on Fridays.
Mahadev Temple; The Mahadev temple is to the north-east of the
village, a little beyond the inhabited locality, in the midst of an open held.
The temple is built in Hemadpanti style and is a work in masonry. A small
piazza-like porch with two pillars on either side forms the entrance. There
are beautiful artistic designs carved upon it. This part of the temple is in
bad repair. The hall or the mandap of the temple is 4.58x6.10 metres
(15'x20'), the roof of which is supported by two rows of pillars bearing
engraved human and divine figures. Each row is having four pillars. A
narrow passage about 10 yards in length leads into the inner shrine. This
entrance is very low and is flanked by small pillars. At the entrance, on
either side in the wall of the mandap, there are two niches in one of which
there is an image of a cobra engraved on a stone while in the other that of
a goddess. There are similar niches in the passage walls also, containing
images of various deities. On the portal frame of this passage are carved in
relief the figures of Sankar and his consort Parvati and many other deities.
The shrine in which the ling is placed is cell-like and is reached by
descending a few steps. It is 0.929 sq. metres (10 ft. square). Outside the
temple near the main entrance there is a disfigured image of nandi. Near it
on a stone slab is a figure depicted as riding a horse. The temple was said
64 |
to have been built during the period of the Yadavas and it true, could be of
considerable antiquity. In Sravan, on every Monday, people visit the
temple to make their obeisance.
5.4.5. Rajuri Bk.
Rajuri Bk., a village lying 9.66 km. (6 miles) off Bid, is noteworthy
for its temple of Ganapati. The temple has a spacious mandap of earthen
floor and a vestibule which contains a squarish block of stone bearing four
engraved images of Ganapati. Besides, the vestibule contains five more
Ganapati images which have earned the name Nav Gana Rajuri to this
village. The ones on the block of stone are supposed to be svayambhu and
said to have appeared when Brahmadeva performed a yajnya. On
Bhadrapad Suddha Chaturthi the utsav attended by over 7,000 persons is
celebrated.
5.4.6. Parli Vaijnath Temple:
Parali is well-known for the shrine of Vaijanath containing one of
the famous twelve jyotirlingas of India. It occupies an elevated plain about
21.33 to 24.39 metres (70' to 80' ft.) above the ground level and is half a
kilometre to the north-west of the town, almost in the arms of the
Meru parvat. The temple is supposed to have been originally constructed
by Hemadri or Hemadpant, the chief minister of the Yadavas of Devagiri,
of which nothing except an image of nandi remains to date. This gives the
temple an antiquity of over 600 years and is proved by a date on one of the
steps of thejuna ghat. The present temple was built by Ahilyabai Holkar,
who once happened to visit the site and moved by the ruined state of the
temple ordered its reconstruction. An inscribed block of stone bearing a
Sanskrt verse has been found which states: "The temple was built in
1706 Krodhanam Samvatsara Caitra Sukla 5. On Friday by the daughter-
in-law of Raja Malharrav Holkar, and the wife of Khanderav Holkar, viz.,
65 |
Rani Ahilyabai Holkar". This incription helps in ascertaining the exact
date of the reconstruction of the shrine.
The temple stands in the centre of an enclosure built of stone
masonry having three arched entrances on the eastern, southern and
northern sides. Long and broad flights of stairs lead up to these entrances.
The one on the eastern side is called the juna ghat, on the northern nova
ghat and on the southern as the tirth ghat, for here is located the Harihar
tirth, one of the three tirths, the other two being Markandeya
tirth and Narayan tirthrespectively. On one of the stones of the juna
ghat the date Saka 1108 has been inscribed which perhaps is the year in
which the ghat was built
Sanesvar Mandir: Nearby the Parali Vaijanath temple is a small,
insignificant shrine dedicated to Sani Maharaj. Its not too large mandap
besides containing a homakund has asamadhi of one Sivsankar Swami
believed to be a devotee of Sani.
Zuralya Gopinath: Zuralya Gopinath temple is very small and
occupies an area of about 6.503 sq. metres (70 sq. feet). The idol of
Gopinath is underneath the temple in a very dark cellar, infested by many
cockroaches, which are said to attack anyone trying to kill them. It is
because the temple abounds in cockroaches that it has been nicknamed as
Zuralya Gopinath U-Cockroach).
5.4.7. Limba Ganesh:
Limba Ganesh, with a population of 4,102 in 1961, is a village in
Bid tahsil lying 28.97 km. (18 miles) due south of Bid town. It is
noteworthy for the shrine dedicated to Ganes which is said to be one of the
twenty-one temples mentioned in the Ganes Purana. It is situated about
half a furlong to the north-west of the village, in an oblong structure
constructed of dark grey chiselled masonry and lies in the middle of a
rectangular enclosure, which is also constructed of the same type of
66 |
masonry. A three arched double storeyed entrance with an ornamental
facing leads into the premises. The middle arch fitted with wooden door-
shutters, is bigger than the two side ones.
Varandhesvar Mahadev temple is also located in the same village. It
consists of only a single cell, fitted with a carved door. A detached and
disproportionate salunka is kept in the middle of the cell.
At Limba Ganesh there is also a temple dedicated to Krsna
belonging to the Mahanubhav sect. It is said that it was originally that
of Mahalaksmi but some time it was taken possession of by
the Mahanubhavasand converted into a Krsna shrine.
5.4.8. Dharmapuri:
Dharmapuri, with 3,583 inhabitants in 1961, is a village in
Ambejogai tahsil, well-known for the Kedaresvar temple of considerable
antiquity. Hemadpanti in style, it is situated to the east of the village and
has sufficient architectural elegance to evoke admiration of the visitors.
Twelve strong pillars support the sabhamandap, which has a 2.43 metres
(8') wide verandah on all its four sides. It contains a nandi image based in
the traditional posture. The vestibule, with its door-frame bearing artistic
designs, besides containing a ling has in the rear idols of Parvati, Sankar
and a few other deities. Most of them are disfigured and defaced. But the
remains give an impression that the idols were elaborately designed and
perfectly shaped. The sikhar or the dome of the temple has also carvings
upon it and are exuberant in style and composition. The western part of
the temple which had crumbled has been rebuilt. Remains of the collapsed
structures indicate the existence of corridors.
Ayice Mandir: Located in the heart of the village,
this Hemadpanti temple is reported to be of considerable antiquity. In
front of the temple a decayed lamp-pillar or dipmal of burnt bricks could
be seen. The door leads the visitor into hall 6.10 metres (20 ft.) in length
67 |
and 2.43 metres (8 ft.) in breadth. At both the extreme ends are small
shrines, one containing a Sivaling and the other an idol of Ganapati.
Beyond this hall is the mainsabhamandap, having 48 pillars. Almost each
and every pillar bears some engraved designs. In the rear of the mandap is
the gabhara containing a crudely shaped idol of the goddess. Nearby there
are two other idols. Outside the temple to the right there are the remains of
another temple. A few carvings could still be seen. It does not contain any
idol.
5.4.9. Sautada:
Sautada is a village in Patoda mahal with a population of 2,194 as
per the 1961 Census. It is known for the water-fall, called after the village
name, and the temple of Ramesvar. The river Vincarna raises at a place
called Cikhli, and 1.60 km. (a mile) from Sautada village falls down from
a height of about 68.59 metres (225 ft.) and then further cuts its course
through rugged hills and mountains clad with forests. It is not perennial
and dries up in summer. The scene of the water falling down from such a
great height is pleasing to the eye. From the mountain cliff down to the
level of the river basin a flight of about 600 steps has been built. At the
base of the fall there is a pond known as dev kund.It is so-called because it
is supposed to have been created by Ram by shooting an arrow. Further
away is a big water strip in the form of a doh called Sita kund. On a stone
slab here, there are the foot-prints of Sita.
Ramesvar Temple: Amidst such fascinating natural surroundings is
situated the temple of Ramesvar built in the Hemadpanti style.
The Ramesvar mandir stands alone at a height of about 15.24
metres (50 ft.) overlooking the river Vincarna, flowing through the valley
glades below. The temple has a small courtyard in front. It contains an idol
of Krsna, and hence is popularly known as the temple of Gopalkrsna.
Outside the temple are scattered broken images of Ganapati, Sani and
68 |
many other deities. To the left of the entrance there is another temple
containing the images of Mahadev and Parvati. It has a Sivling with an
image of nandi facing it. To the right is a tulsi vrndavan with
another nandi image facing it.
The main temple is at the back and has a mandap which has two
doors, one on the west and the other on the north. Facing both the doors
are images of nandi, the carrier of Mahadev. The sabhamandap is 1.86 sq.
metres (20 ft. square) and is supported by 16 solid pillars bearing some
excellent carvings. The gabhara is 3.04x3.04 metres (10' x 10'). Inside on
a pedestal, is placed an idol of Ram. At the base there are the images of
Sita, Laksman, Bharat and Satrughna. They are all made of white marble.
There is a Shivling facing these images. The legend tells a tale to the effect
that Ram had sent Hanuman to Kasi to get him an idol of Mahadev but as
Hanuman was late and the time of puja had drawn very near, Ram
prepared this ling of sand. Subsequently Hanuman brought the lingfrom
Kasi which was placed in the sabhamandap. Here in the background are
placed the idols of Visnu with Nagoba and Bahiroba to his left and right
respectively. On the third Monday of the month of Sravan a fair attended
by over 3,000 persons is held.
5.4.10. Namalgaon:
It is an ancient famous village because of Lord Ganesha‟s Temple.
The Ashapurak Ganesh is one of the 21 Ganesh‟s holy placer. Present temple
shows traditional heritage of our culture. There is a union of the rivers
Karpara, Bendsura and Narmada. Besides this there is a water tank. The
people who suffer from leprosy took bath in the tank and are supposed to get
relief. The standing idol of Lord Ganesh in the temple is very attractive.
5.4.11. Manjarsumbha:
With a population of 821 as per the 1961 Census, is a small village in
Bid tahsil, known for the Samadhi of Manmath Swami held in high esteem
69 |
by the Lingayats. It is situated about 1.60 km. (a mile) from Manjarsumbha,
amidst picturesque surroundings with a small water-fall in front, trickling
down from a hill of about 9.64 metres (30 ft.) height. The Samadhi of the
revered Swami is housed in a 1.114 sq-metres (12 ft. square) gabhara
surmounted by a small but wll designed sikhar. Images of Sankar and
Mahadev in meditative pose have been painted on the gabhara walls. The
sabhamandap with a homakund in its centre is open on all the sides.
Pavilions have been built near the Samadhi to accommodate pilgrims coming
from far off places to attend the annual yatra held in Magh at the time of
tulsi vivaha. It lasts for five days and is attended by about 3,000 persons.
The location is pleasantly cool due to growth of numerous trees, wild
flowers and plants which thrive due to the proximity of the water-fall.
Manjarsumbha has a rest house and a middle school.
5.4.12. Kapildhar:
Kapildhar is famous because of Manmath Swami‟s Samadhi. There is
a lovely water fall. Manmath Swami wrote in Marathi and placed himself in
Marathi literature. He described many Abhanjas and Astang Acharan very
skillfully.
5.4.13. Pohicha Dev:
It is an fmous place among Mahanubhav people for omni-potent Lord
Datta‟s temple. This famous holy place is situated on high hills. The carving
of the temple attracts the attention of the visitors. It is said to be the place of
Walva Koli, the creator of the Ramayan epic. It is said that Shri Chakradhar
Swami, the founder of mahanubhav sect visited that place.
5.4.14 . Kholeshwar Temple:
The temple of Kholeshwar, the oldest known at Ambejogai, is to the
north-east of Yogeshwari temple. It is in the centre of a spacious court-yard
which had a rampart wall around, with strong bastions. In later times the
bastions collapsed and the temple was left defenceless. Still later its mandap
70 |
was turned into a court library. There was also a small castle inside where
during the Nizam‟s rule the court was held. After some time the court was
shifted to some other place. It is built in a plinth and has entrances on the
east, north and the south, the first one being the main entrance. This entrance
is ornamented with exquisite designs. On entering the hall, to the left is a
Sanskrt inscription in verse, which gives the date of its construction as Saka
1162. The inscription further states that the temple was built by one Laksmi,
daughter of Kholeshwar, the general of Yadava Singhana, in
commemoration of Rama, son of Kholesvar, who was killed in a battle. In
the centre is placed a linga. The present linga was installed after the region
became a part of Maharastra. The hall is 1.86 m2 (20 ft. square) and while
the front part is squarish, the hind part is round in shape. Both inside and
outside there are half broken statues and defaced designs and patterns. A
Jatra is held on chaitra Suddha Ekadasi and on the occasion the palaki is
taken round in procession.
5.4.15 . Yogeshwari Temple:
Yogesvari temple is situated on the western bank of the river Jayanti
which flows through the heart of the town. It has a double line of
conmpound wall with three gates, one each o n eastern, norothern and the
southern sides. The southern gate, which is by the road side, is the entrance
gate. It has a nagarkhand above. Nearly the eastern and northern gates there
are two dipmals. On the utsav day these are illuminated with lamps.
The temple proper has also three entrances, viz. on the eastern,
western and the northern sides. On the western side there is the store house.
The temple is in Hemadpanti style and there is much architectural work of
note. In one of the inscriptions of the Yadavas, it is mentioned as having
three big sikhars. It is probable that the original temple was destroyed. The
present temple was built by Nagoji Trimal and Samji Bapuji, some 250 years
ago, on the remains of the original structure. The gabhara is 3.05 x 3.05
71 |
metres (10‟ x 10‟) containing the idol of Yogesvari on a pedestal. It is
surmounted by a sikhar ornamented with figure-filled niches. In the four
corners there are replicas of the main sikhar. The mandap and the main
sikhar were built at some later stage. On turning to the right from the inner
shrine the images of Mahakali and Tulja Bhavani could be seen. In the
sabhamandap are the images of Ganapati, Kesavraj and the usava murtis of
Yogesvari.
5.4.16. Shri Mukundraj Samadhi:
The honour of being the first poet to simplify Vedanta philosophy of
self-knowledge goes to Mukundraj, one of the most celebrated and earliest
poets of Maharastra who composed verses in simple Marathi. His Samadhi
is located at a distance of 3.21 km. (two miles) from Ambejogai, on the
slopes of Balaghat ranges, and the hill adorned by the Samadhi is known as
Mukundraj hill. By the side, flows the river Banaganga mentioned in
Viveksindhu, the celebrated work of Mukundraj. The tops of the hills are
always clad with dense forests and in the rainy season when the streams
come trickling down the valley from the hill tops, the view is bewitching.
Mukundraj lived before Dnyanesvar.
The Samadhi situated inside a tunnel is approached by a flight of
nearly 100 steps. The edifice housing the Samadhi was built at a much later
stage. A spring emanating out of the rocks, close by the Samadhi is
considered to be a tirth. On the western side a few cloisters have been
provided. These are generally used by the pilgrims coming from distant
places. In the plains below, a huge sabhamandap measuring nearly 371.61
sq. meteres (4,000 square feet) has been erected by his devotees and
admirers. In this mandap a small shrine of Vitthal Rakhumai has also been
installed. The Samadhi has become a place of assemblage.
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5.4.17. Amaleswara Temple: Ambejogai:
The Amaleswara temple (plate IX) is one of the mediaeval monuments
situated 11/2 Miles to the north of ambejogai. It is dedicated to Lord Siva.
The temple stands amidst the hills and is situated in picturesque
surroundings. It faces east. This temple consists of a mandapa, an antaralla
and a garbhagriha. The groundplan (Plan XI) maintains an architectural
continuity, and resembles the ground-plans of the single-shrined temples at
Pangaon, Dharmapuri and Hottal. It reveals similarity with the plan of the
Sakaleswara temple at ambejogai.
The temple stands in the midst of a court-yard. The walls of the
enclosure are constructed later. The mandapa is also reconstructed. It retains
a part of the roof and the pillars from its original construction, whereas the
remaining roof and the walls are added later.
5.4.18. Sakaleswara Temple: Ambejogai:
Ambejogai a Taluka headquarter in the Bhir District and is situated to
the south-east of Bhir at a distance of 80 Kilometers. The town is famous for
the Jogai Amba temple and derives its name from the temple. The
antiquarian remains in the town include four mediaeval structural temples,
named Sakaleswara temple, Ambleswara temple, Kholeswara temple and
Kasivisveswara temple and a cave temple complex called Hattikhand.
Most of these temples excepting that of Kholeswara and
Kasivisweswara are almost a dilapidated Kasivisweswara is just replica of
the Kholeswara temple. Sakaleswara and Amaleswara temples are more
ornate and have beautiful sculptures.
The Sakaleswara temple (plate XI) is situated to the north of the town
at a distance of about 11/2 miles, and stands on a hill top. The temple is in
complete ruins. What remain are the pillars of the mandapa an antarala and
a Garbhagriha.
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The ground-plan (fig. no 13) is similar to the temples of Dharmapuri
and Hottal. It is a single-shrines temple and consists of a mukhamandapa, a
mandapa, two ardhamandapas, an antarala and a garbhagriha. The entire
structure measures 45‟x32‟. Originally the temple stood on a platform. This
is now completely buried underground and a part of it is dilapidated.
5.4.19. Dhareshwar Temple:
The temple of Dhareshwar was originally a Jain temple. During the
reign of Muhammad-bin-Tughluq it was converted into a mosque by one of
his generals and it continued to be used as a mosque down to the time of the
police action against the former State of Hyderabad. It was then that the
temple was restored to its original status. It is built in stone masonry and
contains 32 defaced images of the Tirthankaras of Jain hagiology. The
sabhamandap of the temple is rectangular and has 24 stone pillars to support
it. On each of these pillars are carved images of various deities and
Tirthankaras. They are said to number 1,011. Among others are to be found
the figures of Mahadev with a Nandi by its side? To the left side of the
temple there is an old Neem tree under which a block of stone bearing an
inscription in Pali could be seen. It is not legible. In front of the temple
stands an isolated masonry gate.
5.4.20. Vitthal Deul Pangaon:
Pangaon is a village situated in the Ambajogai Taluka of Bhir District
at a distance of 30 Kilometers from Parli Vaijanath, a famous pilgrimage
centre and market place of Marathwada. Pangaon is a railway station on the
Parli-Hyderabad broad-guage line and can be approached both from
Hyderabad and Parli Vaijanath. The vitthal Deul (Plate 7) is located to the
west of the village, near a Grampanchayat Office. A part of it is now
occupied by a local school. The neighbours living in the vicinity, treating
the temple as unclaimed property, have shifted a large number of beautiful
sculptures, shafts, and other stones to construct private residence. It is
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unfortunate that this beautiful Chalukyan temple is being damaged in this
manner by vandals. This temple is a splendid example of architectural
excellence and shows a strong influence of Hoyasala, Chalukya and
Kakatiya architecture.
The temple stands on a raised terrace, about 4 feet high, which follows
the angles of the structure. It consists of a mandapa an antarala and a
garbhagriha. It has three entrances, on East, north and South. As the shrine
faces east, eastern entrance is the mukhamandapa. All the three entrances
have entrance proches.
5.4.21. Kesava Temple, Kesapuri:
Kesavapuri commonly known as Kesapuri is a village located 3 miles
to the west of Majalgaon a taluka headquarters of Bhir District of
Marathwada. A dilapidated temple site attracts the attention of a visitor. The
temple is at the extreme end of the village. The temple as appears from the
remains consisted of a mukhamandapa, mandapa, antarala and
garbhagriha. The garbhagriha is in total ruins. Mukhamandapa leaves its
few traces of existence. Mandapa however is well preserved. The pillars
and the ceiling reveal a great sculptural achievement. The pillar type is
peculiar. The pillar shaft of the main pillars is not square or rectangular but
circular. The ceiling of the mandapa is also elaborately carved. The entire
ceiling is divided into nine compartments.
There is a rangaseela in the centre of the half and the ceiling over the
rangaseela is more decorative. It has a rosette design with Narsimha in the
centre and Siva, Ganesa, Karttikeya, at the corners of the central block.
5.4.22. Nagnath Temple (Manur):
There is an ancient temple of Lord Shankara. It is said that it is the
native place of Babruvahan, the son Arjuna. It is a place where deathless
Ashwathama was wandering for ever.
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5.5. Review of Historical Analysis:
The survey of archeological remains was conduced in this work. The
historical dynamics provides that due to its archeological base Bhir was able
to develop in the historical period. There are stoneage sites of which most of
them belonged to late Stone Age era. P.N. Kamble has brought to light some
important late stoneage tools at different places. They are carved with micro
liths, knives, chappers and other small tools. All these small tools were under
use by ancient people of Bhir. No excavation of this period has been
conducted here because the village to village survey report has not been
totally completed. Due to lack of such systematic study not much comment
is stated about this period. Only few inferences can be drawn here:
Only late stone period was effective in pre histotic period.
Only few tools have been collected from 3 to 4 sites.
It is difficult to build a continuous history of the pre historic and pro
historic period.
5.6. Summary:
Thus in these chapter archeological sites of Bhir distsrict was
provided. On the basis of Indian archeology and on the basis of selected
reports, which included Bhir distirct, survey of selected stites has been
completed. Aftter careful review of these sites a systematic report was
provided in this chapter.
In the beginning historical dynamics was presented. Some important
cave temples at Ambajogai were studied. Further structural temples were
studied. A review of 27 temples was undertaken. Furhter review of all these
remains was presented.
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References:
1. Deo S.B. Satavahana archeology” Deccan College PG Research
Journals 1976, p-49
2. Ibid., p-49
3. Patil Maya, “Information about Ter excavation daily Divya Marathi”,
-March 2015.
4. Sharma K.K. Intellectural‟s Sandarbha Maharashtra, pp-665-66
5. Ibid., -p-665-66
6. Indian Archeology Review 1986
7. Sharma K.K. op cit., pp-665-66
8. Bhir District Gazettee, p-36
9. Sharma K.K. op cit., pp-665-66
10. Kandhare Vishwas “Bhir a Cultural Study” p-84
11. Bhir District Gazetter, p-38
12. Gore article in Marathwada University Journal.
13. Sharma K.K. op cit., pp-665-66
14. Ibid.,
15. Ibid.,
16. Kandhare Vishwas, op cit., p-113
17. Dharurkar V.L. Daily Marathwada special number Ambajogai Sahitya
Sammelan 1982
18. Beed Distrist Gazetter- Ibid., p-634
19. Kandhare Vishwas, op cit., p-67
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CHAPTER VI
CRITICAL STUDY 6.1. Introduction 6.2. Important features of the study6 6.3. Highlights of study 6.4. Conclusion 6.5. Summary
78 |
CHAPTER VI
CRITICAL STUDY
6.1. Introduction:
Archeology is a subject of immense value for various reasons. It is
based on field work and explorations. The study of antiquies, pottery and
other remains is mainly signficiant in the archeological research.1 Further he
has pointed that pottery is one of evidences of old remains. The archeology
is not based on common chart but it is based on field work.2 The study of
various remains in the field of archeology also throw light on new aspects of
life. All these aspects are clearly related to each other and these are
important factors responsible for conducting research.3
The careful and critical study of archeological remains of Bhir distidct
can provide a new angle for the present work.
6.2. Important Features of the Study:
The present study shows that archeological explorations in Bhir district
are related to early and late Stone Age.
Dr. P.N. Kamble has studied some late Stone Age soruces.
Some of the chalcolistic sources were descried by P.N. Kamble and
others and they provide various details on the archeology of Bhir
district.
In the early historic period the Satavahana, Chalukya and Rastrakutas
and Yadavas remains are rich and varied in nature.
The study of temples also provides details about the past.
The study of temples is conduced by Prabhakar Deo, Dr. Deshmukh as
well as by Dr. G.B. Degloorkar but the other remains has not been
carefully studied.
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All these aspects can provide some more facts about the archeological
sources of Bhir district. All 26 places in Bhir city and its peripherial area
have been properly highlighted in this work and they provide new facts.
6.3. Highlights of the Study:
The following new aspects have been brought to light in this work:
The historical sites illustrated in this study in Bhir district require a
new perspective.
The archeological exploration is requied to study pre history and pro
history.
There is no clarity about the archeological remains
The place of temple architecture is not properly studied.
All the aspects of archeology require a careful critical analysis.
6.4. Conclusion:
Thus the critical study of all the facts in this work has revealed that the
Bhir and its periphery has a rich and glorious past and it requires a new
perspective to look at all these facts can be very well studied by conducting
fresh archeological explorations.
Thus all these aspects can be wery well described and analyzed here.
The careful study of the archeological remains of Bhir district has provided
some new facts which have been highlighted in this work. The present work
is thus signficiant enough to throw light on the new areas which are
unexplored.
6.5. Summary:
Thus a cirtial review of all the sources archeological and literary has
brought to light the following facts:
New sites can be described after careful explorations
The remains of temples can be interpreted in a new angle.
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The signficaint aspect of study can throw light on neglected aspects. A
very critical approach is required to set the chronology of temples and
their remains.
References:
1. Sankaliya H.D. “Introduction to Archeology” p-3
2. Ibid.,
3. Ibid.,
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CHAPTER VII
CONCLUSION
7.1. Introduction
7.2. Chapter summary
7.3. Chapter summary
7.4. Summary
82 |
CHAPTER VII
CONCLUSION
7.1. Introduction:
Bhir is an ancient district and it has rich historical past. The city has
been recorded with legends and mythological stories. The Bhir means the
whole or residence of Gods and Goddesses. The various rulers governed to
the city with histsorical background. The city was also known as Champavati
Nagari. The name Champavati was daughter of Chalukya King and she was
married to Tilalchand a rich trader of Bhir.
The study of ancient archeological remains of Bhir has provided many
aspects of this study and they have led to the unfolding of cutlrual history of
Bhir and its surroundings.
7.2. Chapter Summary:
Now a brief background of each chapter has been presented here.
Chapter I: The Concept:
In this chapter important concepts and their working definitions were
stated. The nature and scope and significance of the subject were discussed.
The Importance of epic age and early tradition was mainly focused. In this
chapter future line of study was also discussed. This chapter has also
presented historical background.
Chapter II: Research Design:
In this chaptger research design was discussed. Here histsroical
method and descriptive design was discussed in a befitting manner. The
important tools and techniques of data collection were discussed and primary
as well as secondary sources were also discussed.
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Chaptger III: Historical Sketch:
In this chapter brief history of Bhir district from ancient period to 12th
century was briefly discussed. In this phase first pre history and pro history
was discussed. Later on ancient period was briefly noted. The historical
sketch has provided a proper background of the study of monuments. The
Vedic literary soruces, archeological sources were presented to unfold the
history. In this work the history of Satavahana, Chalukya and Rastrakutas
has been discussed briefly.
Chapter IV: Archeolgocial profile: Pre History and Pro history:
In this chapter pre history and pro history of Bhir and its background
was studied. The reports of Indian archeology were scrutinized and relevant
details were recorded. The explorations made by P.N. Kamble were mainly
highlighted and some details of late Stone Age and Chalcoholic period were
mainly presented.
Chapter V: Historical Archeology:
In this chapter important sites and places of important from
Satavahana to Yadava period were discussed. All these aspects have a
critical historial backgraound. The important features and key aspecsts of
these monuments were also described in this chapter briefly.
Chapter VI: Critical Study:
In this chapter the cirtical analysis of the surveyed area was provided
and observations were also recorded. All these aspects have a significant
bearing on the problem.
Chapter VII: Conclusion:
In this chapter first summary of previous chapters was presented and
later on important findings were noted, final suggestions were also recorded
hrere.
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7.3. Suggestions:
There is no proper research conducted so far. Few temples in
Ambajogi and Bhir must be undertaken
The state archeology has to undertake the conservation of monuments.
The entire Bhir district should be surveyed on the basis of archeology
and monuments.
There are no parameters for conservations. They should be maintained
properly.
The special grants must be allocated for the presentation of these sites.
A list of prominent monuments of states must be prepared and perfect
chronology of temples be evolved.
A plan of developemmnt of sites in Beed district be prepared
NSS and college students must clean the surroundings of these
monuments.
People should form a public body for protection of these monuments.
7.4. Summary:
Thus all these aspects reveled that there is a need to study and protect
the archeological remains of Bhir district. All these monuments require a
proper maintenance and proper protection in a systematic manner. These
aspects can be very well studied and recorded for the better future of the Bhir
and its history as well as culture. Hence this can be a bold step ahead.
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HISTORICAL
SITES IN
BEED
86 |
HISTORICAL SITES IN BEED
REFLECTION OF KANKALESHWAR TEMPLE IN THE WATER
TANK AROUND
LOTUS SYMBOL ON ANTRAL OF KANKALESHWAR TEMPLE
87 |
DECORATED DESIGNS OF KANKALESHWAR TEMPLE
GENERAL VIEW OF ANCENTJATASHANKAR TEMPLE IN BEED
88 |
GARBHGRAHA AND KRISHNA IMAGE OF TEMPLE AT
POHICHA DEV
SHIVA IMAGE FROM KAPILGHAT, BEED
89 |
GENERAL VIEW OF NAGNATH TEMPLE, PALI
BHAIRVANATH IMAGE OF JARUD
90 |
REMAINS OF DHARESHWAR TEMPLE IN DHARUR
100 LAMPS PILLAR AT DHARUR TEMPLE
91 |
ANCENT BALAJI TEMPLE AT DHARUR
IMAGE OF GRAM DAIVATA VILLAGE DITY AT KILLE DHARUR
92 |
THE SAMADHI PLACE OF FIRST POET MUKUNDRAJ AT
AMBAJOGAI
HATTIKHANA CAVES IN AMBAJOGAI
93 |
JOGAI TEMPLE, AMBAJOGAI
KHOLESHWAR TEMPLE IN AMBAJOGAI
94 |
12 KHAMBE TEMPLE AT AMBAJOGAI
YOGESHWARI IMAGE IN AMBAJOGAI
95 |
VAIDYANATH TEMPLE AT PARALI VAIDYANATH
SHIVA IMAGE IN THE GARBHAGRAH AT VAIDYANATH
TEMPLE, PARALI
96 |
CHALUKYA PERIOD KEDARESHWAR TEMPLE AT
DHARMAPURI
APSARA IMAGE ON THE PILLARS OF KEDARESHWAR TEMPLE
AT DHARMAPURI
97 |
GANESH IMAGE NAVGAN RAJURI, TALUKA - BEED
98 |
YADAV KALIN MAHARASHTRA
SHIVA JOTIRLINGA AND OTHER PLACES IN MAHARASHTRA
99 |
MARKET CITIES IN BEED DISTRICT