The Story of the 'Land of the Gods

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

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

Fly Back With The Time

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

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

Historically Renowned Ambika Devi Temple in Kangra