10 Questions
When were the Rajmahal Hills formed?
During the Cretaceous Period
Who chose Rajmahal as the capital of Bengal in 1595-96?
Man Singh
Which communities have inhabited the Rajmahal Hills region?
Sauria Paharia and Santal communities
When was the capital of Bengal transferred to Dacca (now Dhaka, Bangladesh)?
1608
Name a building that indicates the rich history of Rajmahal Hills.
Akbar Mosque
What are the unique geological features of the Rajmahal Hills?
volcanic outbursts and presence of plant fossils from the Cretaceous Period
How long is the northeast-southwest-trending arch of the Rajmahal Hills?
approximately 120 miles (190 km)
What is the elevation of the Rajmahal Hills?
1,861 feet (567 meters)
What is the typical topography of the Rajmahal Hills?
Deccan trap rugged topography with isolated hills and flat tops
What has emerged as a significant threat to the Rajmahal Hills and its surrounding areas in recent years?
stone mining
Study Notes
In the Hills of Rajmahal
The Rajmahal Hills are a historic region located in the far northeastern Jharkhand state of India, near the Ganges River. These hills are known for their rich history, unique geological features, and cultural significance.
History of Rajmahal Hills
The Rajmahal Hills were formed during the Cretaceous Period, making them perhaps among India's oldest hills. The region's geological history is closely related to the formation of the Rajmahal basalts, which are equivalent in age to the uppermost lavas on the Southern Kerguelen Plateau. The area has been inhabited by various tribal people, including the Sauria Paharia and Santal communities.
Rajmahal was chosen as the capital of Bengal by Man Singh, a Rajput governor under the Mughals, in 1595-96 due to its strategic command of the Teliagarh Pass. The capital of Bengal was later transferred to Dacca (now Dhaka, Bangladesh) in 1608, but Rajmahal temporarily regained its administrative position from 1639 to 1660. The region has a rich history of historical events and cultural exchange, as evidenced by the presence of buildings such as the Akbar Mosque (c. 1600 CE) and the 18th-century palace of Mīr Qasīm, nawab of Bengal.
Geological Features
The Rajmahal Hills are characterized by their unique geological features, including volcanic outbursts and the presence of plant fossils dating back to the Cretaceous Period. The hills are part of a broad northeast-southwest-trending arch for approximately 120 miles (190 km) and rise to an elevation of 1,861 feet (567 meters). The area is also known for its typical Deccan trap rugged topography, which features isolated hills with flat tops.
Stone Mining Threats
In recent years, stone mining has emerged as a significant threat to the Rajmahal Hills and its surrounding areas, including the Adivasi community and their unique cultural heritage. The mining activities have raised concerns about the potential impact on the environment and the displacement of local communities.
In conclusion, the Rajmahal Hills are a historically significant and geologically unique region in India. Their rich history, cultural heritage, and unique geological features make them an important area for further study and preservation.
Explore the rich history and unique geological features of the Rajmahal Hills in Jharkhand, India. Learn about the area's formation during the Cretaceous Period, its cultural significance, and the threats posed by stone mining. Discover the diverse tribal communities, historical events, and the impact of volcanic outbursts on the landscape.
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