Bihar Special Sampoorna Book PDF

EDITION: First Published By: Physics Wallah ISBN: 978-81-19352-02-9 MRP: 0/- Mobile App: Physics Wallah (Available on Play Store) Website: www.pw.live Youtube Channel: Physics Wallah - Alakh Pandey...

EDITION: First Published By: Physics Wallah ISBN: 978-81-19352-02-9 MRP: 0/- Mobile App: Physics Wallah (Available on Play Store) Website: www.pw.live Youtube Channel: Physics Wallah - Alakh Pandey UPSC Wallah UPSC Wallah - Hindi Medium PSC Wallah - UP Bihar MPSC Wallah Email: [email protected] Rights All rights are reserved with the Publisher. No part of this book may be used or reproduced in any manner whatsoever without written permission from the author or publisher. In the interest of the student community: Circulation of soft copy of Book(s) in PDF or other equivalent format(s) through any social media channels, emails, etc. or any other channels through mobiles, laptops or desktop is a criminal offense. Anybody circulating, downloading, or storing, a soft copy of the book on his device(s) is in breach of the Copyright Act. Further photocopying of this book or any of its material is also illegal. Do not download or forward in case you come across any such soft copy material. 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This book adopts a multi-faceted approach to mastering and understanding the concepts by having a rich diversity of questions asked in the examination and equipping the students with the knowledge for this competitive exam. The main objective of the study material is to provide short, crisp, concise, and high-quality content to our students. BOOK FEATURES z Holistic discussion of topics, strictly as per exam syllabus z One-stop solution for subject-wise coverage z Diagrams, Flowcharts and Timelines for quick understanding and revision z Integrated Preparation of Prelims and Mains stages of this exam  CONTENTS Section-I: History of Bihar 1-49 3.10 Bihar and Khilafat Movement........................... 30 3.11 Non-Cooperation Movements............................ 31 1. Ancient History of Bihar.............................. 3-15 3.12 Swarajist Movement............................................. 31 1.1 Sources of Ancient History of Bihar................3 3.13 Simon Commission................................................ 32 1.2 Pre-History of Bihar................................................5 3.14 Bihar and Civil Disobedience Movement..... 32 1.3 Age of Vedas in Bihar..............................................5 3.15 Individual Civil Disobedience............................ 32 1.4 Age of Mahajanpadas: 6th Century 3.16 Peasants and National Movement................... 32 BC Bihar..........................................................................6 3.17 Labour Movements................................................. 33 1.5 Religion in Ancient Bihar.......................................7 3.18 Revolutionary Activities in Bihar..................... 33 1.6 The Early Kingdoms..................................................8 3.19 Bihar Socialist Party.............................................. 33 1.7 The Mauryan Empire................................................9 3.20 Quit India Movement............................................. 33 1.8 Post-Mauryan Dynasties in Bihar.......................12 3.21 Elections in Bihar and Attainment 1.9 The Golden Age: Guptas....................................... 12 of Independence...................................................... 34 2. Medieval History of Bihar.......................... 16-23 3.22 Freedom Fighters from Bihar............................ 34 2.1 Sources of Medieval History in Bihar............ 16 3.23 Women Freedom Fighters from Bihar.......... 37 2.2 Early Medieval Period in Bihar....................... 17 4. Tribal Revolts of Bihar................................ 38-41 2.3 Spread of Islamic Rule in Bihar........................ 18 4.1 Nonia Revolt............................................................. 38 2.4 Slave Dynasty in Bihar.......................................... 19 4.2 Sanyasi Movement................................................. 38 2.5 Bihar During Khilji Dynasty.............................. 19 4.3 Tamar Revolt............................................................ 38 2.6 Bihar and Tughlaq Dynasty................................ 19 4.4 Chero Revolt............................................................. 38 2.7 Chero Dynasty.......................................................... 19 4.5 Ho and Munda Uprising...................................... 38 2.8 Bhojpur’s Ujjaini Dynasty.................................... 20 4.6 Wahabi Movement................................................. 38 2.9 Noohani Dynasty of Bihar................................... 20 4.7 Kol Uprising.............................................................. 39 2.10 Mughal Rule in Bihar............................................. 21 4.8 Bhumij Revolt.......................................................... 39 2.11 Bihar and Nawabs of Bengal............................ 22 4.9 Santhal Uprising..................................................... 39 2.12 Religion in Medieval Bihar.................................. 22 4.10 Lotah Uprising......................................................... 39 2.13 Economic, Religious and Social Condition 4.11 Sardari Movement................................................. 40 of Bihar During Medieval Period..................... 23 4.12 Munda Revolt........................................................... 40 3. Modern History of Bihar............................ 24-37 4.13 Sapha Har Movement........................................... 40 3.1 Europeans in Bihar................................................. 24 4.14 Tana Bhagat Movement...................................... 40 3.2 The Battle of Plassey............................................ 25 5. Development of Western Education 3.3 The Battle of Buxar............................................... 25 in Bihar........................................................ 42-44 3.4 Revolt of 1857.......................................................... 26 5.1 The Growth of Western Education 3.5 Congress and Bihar............................................... 28 in Bihar........................................................................ 42 3.6 Early Nationalism in Bihar................................ 29 5.2 Women Education in Bihar................................ 43 3.7 Protests Against the Partition of Bengal...... 29 5.3 Scientific and Technical Education 3.8 Bihar and Home Rule Movement..................... 29 in Bihar........................................................................ 44 3.9 Bihar and Champaran Satyagraha 1917....... 29 5.4 Issues with Education in Bihar......................... 44  6. Art and Crafts of Bihar............................... 45-49 12.13 Tribal Issues in Bihar............................................ 89 6.1 Art in Mauryan Period.......................................... 45 12.14 Government Initiatives for the 6.2 Art During the Palas.............................................. 47 Development of Scheduled Tribes 90 6.3 Patna Kalam Painting............................................ 47 13. Major Disasters of Bihar........................... 93-100 6.4 Madhubani Paintings............................................. 48 13.1 Earthquake................................................................. 93 13.2 Flood............................................................................. 94 Section-II: Geography of Bihar 51-115 13.3 Drought........................................................................ 96 13.4 Heat Waves................................................................. 98 7. Bihar: Physical Geography.......................... 53-62 13.5 High Speed Wind/Cyclone.................................. 98 7.1 Introduction............................................................. 53 13.6 Other Hazards........................................................... 98 7.2 Geological Structure of Bihar............................ 54 13.7 The Disaster Management Act. 2005............. 98 7.3 Physiographic Division of Bihar...................... 55 13.8 Disaster Management in Bihar......................... 99 7.4 Important Mountain Peaks/Hills of Bihar...... 62 13.9 Institutional Framework...................................... 99 8. Climate and Soil of Bihar........................... 63-68 13.10 Recent Initiatives in Disaster Management 8.1 Climate of Bihar...................................................... 63 in Bihar 100 8.2 Seasons in Bihar..................................................... 64 13.11 Disaster Risk Reduction Road Map 2015-2030............................................................... 100 8.3 Soils of Bihar............................................................ 66 14. Climate Change....................................... 101-103 9. Rivers and Drainage System....................... 69-75 14.1 Schemes Related to Climate Change........... 102 9.1 Major Rivers in Bihar........................................... 69 15. District Profile of Bihar.......................... 104-115 9.2 Important Waterfalls of Bihar.......................... 73 15.1 Districts in Patna Division............................... 104 9.3 Lakes in Bihar.......................................................... 74 15.2 Districts in Magadh Division........................... 106 9.4 Wetlands of Bihar.................................................. 75 15.3 District in Tirhut Division............................... 107 10. Biogeography of Bihar................................ 76-81 15.4 Districts in Saran Division............................... 108 10.1 Natural Vegetation of Bihar................................ 76 15.5 Districts in Bhagalpur Division...................... 109 10.2 National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries 15.6 Districts in Munger Division........................... 109 of Bihar........................................................................ 78 15.7 Districts in Purnea Division........................... 111 10.3 Eco-Sensitive Zones (ESZ) in Bihar................ 81 15.8 Districts in Darbhanga Division................... 112 10.4 Efforts by State Government for 15.9 Districts in Kosi Division................................. 112 the Protection of Wildlife.................................... 81 Section-III: Polity and Governance 11. Mineral Resources....................................... 82-85 of Bihar 117-145 11.1 Minerals of Bihar..................................................... 82 16. Administrative Set-up of Bihar.............. 119-120 12. Tribes of Bihar............................................. 86-92 16.1 Bihar Legislature.................................................. 119 12.1 Santhal.......................................................................... 86 12.2 Oraon............................................................................ 86 17. Bihar Executive........................................ 121-123 12.3 Tharu............................................................................ 87 17.1 Governor................................................................... 121 12.4 Gond.............................................................................. 87 17.2 President’s Rule in Bihar.................................. 122 17.3 Chief Minister......................................................... 122 12.5 Chero............................................................................. 87 17.4 Council of Ministers............................................ 123 12.6 Kora............................................................................... 88 12.7 Kharwar....................................................................... 88 18. Constitutional Important and 12.8 Korwa............................................................................ 88 Non Constitutional Bodies..................... 124-125 12.9 Sauria Paharia........................................................... 88 18.1 Bihar Public Service Commission.................. 124 12.10 Chik Baraik................................................................. 88 18.2 Bihar State Election Commission..................... 124 12.11 HO................................................................................... 89 18.3 Bihar Human Rights Commission................ 125 12.12 Binjhia.......................................................................... 89 18.4 The Bihar State Commission for Women.......125 vi BPSC WALLAH  19. Bihar Judiciary......................................... 126-129 25.3 Bihar Government and Energy Development.......................................... 169 19.1 High Court............................................................... 126 25.4 Bihar Renewable Energy Development 19.2 Subordinate Courts........................................... 127 Agency (BREDA)................................................... 169 19.3 Bihar Right to Public Grievance 25.5 Koshi Hydel Power Station.............................. 170 Redressal Act.......................................................... 128 19.4 Lokayukta................................................................ 128 26. Development of Bihar............................. 171-194 19.5 Advocate General.................................................. 128 26.1 Rural Development of Bihar........................... 171 19.6 Bihar Police Administration............................ 129 26.2 Urban Development of Bihar.......................... 177 26.3 Human Development of Bihar........................ 181 20. Local Self Government in Bihar............. 130-137 26.4 Child Development.............................................. 188 20.1 Panchayati Raj System (Rural Self Government)................................... 130 26.5 Issues Related to Poverty in Bihar............... 188 20.2 Urban Local Self Government......................... 135 26.6 Issues Related to Unemployment in Bihar..................................................................... 190 21. Elections and Politics.............................. 138-141 26.7 Saat Nischay Scheme......................................... 191 21.1 Elections in Bihar: 26.8 Problems of Economic Development Pre and Post-Sheshan Era............................... 138 in Bihar..................................................................... 193 21.2 Caste Based Politics in Bihar.......................... 139 26.9 Initiatives for Development............................. 194 21.3 Role of Regional Parties in Bihar.................. 140 27. Highlights of Budget 2023-24................. 195-201 21.4 Major Regional Parties in Bihar.................... 141 27.1 Budget Estimates of 2023-24 in Brief........ 195 22. Governance.............................................. 142-145 27.2 Economic Profile of Bihar Budget 2023-24................................................................... 196 22.1 E-Governance......................................................... 142 27.3 Fiscal Orientation of Bihar Budget 22.2 Problem of Centre-State Relations 2023-24................................................................... 197 with Respect to Bihar......................................... 144 27.4 Trend and Composition of Receipts........... 197 27.5 Trend and Configuration of Section-IV: Economy of Bihar 147-201 Fiscal Priorities.................................................... 198 27.6 Profile of Loan Availment................................. 198 23. Bihar: Economy at a Glance................... 149-160 27.7 Other Priorities..................................................... 198 23.1 Demography of Bihar......................................... 149 23.2 State Domestic Product..................................... 150 Section-V: Previous Year Questions 203-268 23.3 Agriculture in Bihar............................................ 150 Appendix I-BPSC Mains PYQs 23.4 Irrigation in Bihar................................................ 154 (60-62nd to 68th)..................................... 205-209 23.5 Industries in Bihar............................................... 156 PAPER-1 24. Infrastructure in Bihar............................ 161-165 Sec. 1: History and Art & Culture of India 205 24.1 Road Transport Sector in Bihar.................... 161 Sec. 2: Current Events of National and 24.2 Railways Transport in Bihar........................... 162 International Importance 207 24.3 Airways Transport in Bihar............................. 162 PAPER-2 24.4 Waterways in Bihar........................................... 162 Sec.1: Polity and Governance 207 24.5 Importance of Infrastructure in the Sec.2: Indian Economy and Geography Development of Bihar........................................ 162 of India 208 24.6 Challenges................................................................ 163 Sec.3: The Role and Impact of Science 24.7 Initiatives................................................................. 164 and Technology in The Development of India 209 25. Energy in Bihar....................................... 166-170 25.1 Major Concerns with Renewable Energy..... 167 Appendix II-BPSC Prelims PYQs 25.2 Thermal Power Plants in Bihar..................... 167 (60-62nd to 68th)..................................... 210-268 vii State Symbols of Bihar Index Symbol Image State animal Gaur (Indian Bison) State bird House Sparrow State tree Peepal (Bodhi Tree) State flower Kachnar (Orchid Tree) State fish Walking Catfish (Clarias batrachus) State fruit Mango Bihar's state emblem depicts the Bodhi Tree with Prayer State emblem Beads flanked by two swastikas. The base of the tree is brick with, Urdu for “Bihar,” inscribed on it. Section I History of Bihar  1 Ancient History of Bihar The word ‘Bihar’ originated from the word ‘Viharas’ which Inscriptions means resting-houses of Buddhist monks during the ancient z An inscription is a piece of writing that is carved, painted, period. The Muslim invaders of the 12th century called it - or inscribed on a hard surface, such as stone, metal, or ‘Bihar’. wood. Inscriptions can be found on a variety of objects, including monuments, buildings, coins, and jewelry. 1.1 SOURCES OF ANCIENT HISTORY OF z The earliest deciphered inscriptions belong to the time of Asoka. BIHAR z Inscriptions on pillars are found in Lauriya Areraj, z The ancient history of Bihar has been developed with Lauriya Nandangarh and Rampurva. the help of archaeological evidence, literary sources z They were written in Brahmi script and Prakrit and accounts of foreign travellers. language and belong to Emperor Asoka’s period. 1.1.1 Archaeological Evidences z The archaeological remains of the Mauryan period includes ruins of the eighty pillared hall located at Kumhrar (Patna). z Polished pillars of Ashoka were discovered at Vaishali, Lauriya Areraj, Lauriya Nandangarh and Rampurva. z Remains of monumental buildings of the Kushana period were found at Chirand. z Terracotta human figurines were found at Buxar and Patna. z Excavations at Nalanda and Vikramshila show The Barabar cave inscription near Gaya. Buddhist architecture of Buddhist Shrines, Stupas and Viharas of Gupta and Pala period. z Inscription on the Nagarjuni hills of Mauryan King Dasaratha z Nalanda, Saran, Munger and Vaishali are important tells us about the patronage of Ajivikas of that period. archaeological sites for the pre-historic phase in Bihar. z Copper plate inscriptions from Gaya and Nalanda and seals found in Vaishali and Nalanda belong to the Gupta period. z Inscriptions of Bodhgaya are associated with Sri Lankan Monk Mahamana II. z The land charters written on copper plates inform us about the social, economic and administrative conditions in the Pala reign in Bihar.  Copper plate inscriptions found in Nalanda belong to King Dharmapala.  Nalanda and Munger copper plate inscriptions belong to King Devapala. Ashokan Pillar at Vaishali  Bhagalpur copper plate inscriptions belong to z Archaeological evidence of Bihar also includes Narayanapala. inscriptions, coins, etc.  Bhangarh copper plate belongs to Vigrahapala. z Some inscriptions belonging to Pratiharas and z Satapatha Brahmana mentions a well established Gahadavalas were also found. Aryan civilisation besides the Ganga in Bihar which z The Gahadavala plate of Maner describes the revenue was known as Kingdom of Videha. system of Patna during the first half of the 12th Puranas century AD. z Reference of Bihar is found in Vishnu Purana, Vayu z Other important inscriptions are Panchobha copper Purana, Matsya Purana. plate inscriptions of Samudra Gupta in Bhagalpur,  Vishnu Purana -Mauryan dynasty. Janibigha inscriptions in Gaya, Deopara inscriptions etc.  Vayu Purana -Gupta dynasty Coins  Matsya Purana -Shunga dynasty. z Coins are a fascinating and important part of human z Varaha Purana mentions ‘Kikat’ as inauspicious place history. They have been used as a form of currency and Gaya, Punpun and Rajgir as auspicious places. for centuries, and they continue to be used in many countries around the world today. Punch-marked Epics or Mahakavyas silver coins were found in Golakpur in Patna and z We know about Videha (King Janaka) from the Purnea. Ramayana and Anga (Karna) from the Mahabharata. z Coins found at Buxar and Chirand belong to the Buddhist Literature Kushan empire. z Anguttara Nikaya, Digha Nikaya, Vinaya pitaka, z Coins of the Gupta period were found in Hajipur. Divyavadana are the most important literary sources The Gupta gold coins, known as Dinars, are the most of the ancient history of Bihar. exceptional instances of Numismatics and artistic z The Anguttara Nikaya mentions sixteen perfection. Mahajanapadas and kingdoms and republics of North z The face of the coins generally portrayed the governing India. king and carried legends, while the reverse depicted z Most of the Buddhist literature was written in Pali the figure of a goddess. language. z Vinaya Pitaka mentions the history of the monarchy of Magadha and Republic of Vaishali. z The chronology of pre-Mauryan kings of Magadha is mentioned in ‘Dipavamsa’ and ‘Mahavamsa’. z Divyavadan-history of Shunga dynasty. z Ashokavadana-life history of Asoka. z Aryamanjusrimulakalpa political history of Bihar under the Guptas. 1.1.2 Literary Sources Jain Literature z Literary sources are an important part of our z In Jain literature, Theravali and Bhagwati Sutra are understanding of the past. They can provide us with major sources of history of ancient Bihar. information about the people, cultures, and events that shaped history. Literary sources include Vedic z Theravili is the part of ‘Kalpa Sutra’ which gives us literature, Puranas, Epics, Buddhist literature, Jain the names of the places where Mahavir spent his time. literature, Non-religious and Foreign literature. z Kalpa Sutra and Uttara Dhyan Sutra- about Pushyamitra Shunga. Vedic Literature z Bhagwati Sutra- about the Licchavi of Vaishali. z In Rigveda, the region of Bihar was called Kikata and the people were called Vratyas. z Kalpa Sutra and Parishist Parwan- about Chandragupta Maurya. z The earliest reference of Bihar is found in Atharvaveda and Panchvimsha Brahman. Non-religious Literary Sources z Atharvaveda refers to Magadha people along with z Non-religious literary sources describing about Angas, Gandharis and Mujavants. Bihar include the Arthashastra about Mauryan z Aryans started moving towards the Eastern part of administration in Patliputra, Mudrarakshasa about India in the later Vedic period (1000-600 BCE). conflicts in Mauryan period, Malavikagnimitram, z The Satapatha Brahmana mentions the arrival and Kathasaritsagara, Gargi Samhita, Manusmriti, Si-yu-ki, spread of Aryans in North-Bihar. etc. 4 Bihar Special BPSC WALLAH   Rock paintings are discovered in the hills of Nawada, Kaimur and Jamui. z The rock paintings depict the pre-historic lifestyle and natural environment of the time. z These highlight the daily life of the early human beings in Bihar which include hunting, running, dancing, walking and also the sun, the moon, stars, animals, plants, trees and rivers that describe their love for nature. Kaimur Rock Paintings Hiuen Tsang z Neolithic Age around (2500-1345 BC) artifacts have been discovered from Chirand (Saran) and Chechar Foreign Accounts (Vaishali). z Megasthenes visited India during the reign of Chandra  Chirand - Neolithic bone tools. Gupta Maurya Megasthenes’ Indica described the  Chechar in Vaishali, Taradih, Senuwar and Maner - Mauryan administration of Patliputra in detail. Black and red ware, ochre (yellow) painted pottery z Fa-Hien visited India during 399 to 412 AD in the and spotted vessels reign of Chandragupta II and has described the z A number of Chalcolithic Age (2000 BC - 700 BC) Magadha empire. artifacts have been discovered in the middle Ganga z Hiuen Tsang described in his book Si-yu-ki (records plains of Bihar. of the western countries) about Nalanda University.  Chirand (Saran), Maner (Patna), Onup and Champa He stayed there for about 5 years. (Bhagalpur), Chechar-Kutubpur (Vaishali), Sonpur (Saran) and Taradih (Gaya). z I-Tsing travelled in India between 671 to 695 BCE  The black and red wares, copper wares are found during later Gupta rule. He stayed at Nalanda for 11 in the sites of this period. years. 1.2 PRE-HISTORY OF BIHAR 1.3 AGE OF VEDAS IN BIHAR z According to Vedic literature and Valmiki Ramayana z Pre-historic period is divided into three parts i.e. an ancient kingdom called Videha was ruled by Janaka Palaeolithic, Mesolithic and Neolithic. and Mithila was its capital.  There is no evidence found related to the Paleolithic z In the later Vedic period (1,000-600 BC), Aryan started age in Bihar. moving towards Eastern India.  The earliest proof of human activity in Bihar is z Ancient Brahmana texts mention the names of kings Mesolithic habitation remains found in Munger. of Bihar.  Mesolithic Age (12000 BC - 6000 BC) evidence has z Satapatha Brahmana mentions their arrival and spread. been discovered from Munger, Hazaribagh, Ranchi, z During the later Vedic period, the Janaka dynasty was Singhbhum and Santhal Pargana. replaced by small independent territories who formed  Tools, hand axes, and cleavers of early and old republics called Janapadas. Some Janapads combined stone age have been found at Paisra in Munger. to form Mahajanapadas. Ancient History of Bihar 5 1.4 AGE OF MAHAJANPADAS: 6TH Vaishali (Licchavi) CENTURY BC BIHAR  Vaishali was an independent clan.  It was situated on the Northern banks of the z By 500 BC, sixteen monarchies and republics known as the Mahajanapadas were formed. These were Ganga, spread over present day Bihar and some stretched across the Indo-Gangetic plains from regions of Nepal. modern-day Afghanistan to Bengal and Maharashtra.  The city Vaishali was named after King Vishal z These Mahajanapadas were Kosi, Kosala, Anga, during the Mahabharata era. Magadha, Vajji (Vriji), Malla, Chedi, Vatsa (Vamsa),  It was an important centre of Buddhism and the Kuru, Panchala, Matsya, Surasena, Assaka, Avanti, headquarters of the Vajji republic. Gandhara and Kamboja.  Lord Mahavira was born at Kundagram in Vaishali.  Panini used the term Vrij for Vajji.  Vaishali is considered to be the world’s first republic.  Kautilya in his Arthashastra mentions about the tribal confederation of Vaishali.  The Buddhist text, Mahaparinibbana Sutta mentions people of Vaishali as Kshatriyas, while Manusmriti has placed them in the category of Vratya Kshatriyas.  Lord Mahavir's mother Trishala was sister of King Chetaka. z Out of sixteen Mahajanapadas, three (Anga, Vajji and  Chetaka daughter Chellana was married to king Magadha) were in Bihar. Bimbisara of Haryanka Dynasty. 1.4.1 Anga  Vaishali was conquered by Ajatashatru. z First mentioned in Atharvaveda. This kingdom Videha (Mithila) comprised Khagaria, Bhagalpur and Munger of  Located in the Northern side of Ganga, presently present time. It was situated in the North-East of located in the Northern Bihar and Eastern Terai Magadha. region of Nepal. z Champa was the capital of this kingdom which  Videha is mentioned in both the Ramayana and corresponds to Bhagalpur of present day Bihar. the Mahabharata. z Earlier name of Champa Malini, was established by Maha Govind.  First mentioned in Yajurveda. z Hiuen Tsang has referred to it as Chenpo.  This kingdom was started by Ikshvaku’s son Nimi Videh. z According to Mahabharata, Anga, one of the six sons of King Bali established the kingdom. It was the kingdom  Mithijanak Videh, the next king, had established of Karna. Mithila. z Anguttara Nikaya mentions Anga as the 16th  Hindu Goddess Sita was the princess of Videha. Mahajanapada. It is also mentioned in Jain literary She was daughter of Raja Janaka of Videha. text.  The capital of Videha kingdom was Janakpur (now z The first king of Anga was Titikshu. part of Nepal). z Bimbisara killed Brahmadatta, last king of Anga Kingdom and merged Anga into Magadha. Jnatrikas  Mahavira Jain was a Jnatrika and his father was 1.4.2 Vajji/Vriji the head of Jnatrika clan and his mother was a z The Vajji comprised eight confederated clans Licchavi princess. z Capital of Vajji was located at Vaishali. z Vajji kingdom was spread over present day Champaran, 1.4.3 Magadha Saran, Muzaffarpur, Sitamarhi and Darbhanga districts. z First mentioned in Atharvaveda. z Out of eight clans, the Vaishali, the Videhas and the z It was a strong republic in the Buddha period which Jnatrikas were the most important. later on became a strong kingdom. 6 Bihar Special BPSC WALLAH z Its area extended from Ganga in the North to Vindhayas z He attained enlightenment in 528 BC while meditating in the South and Champa in the East to river Sone in under a Peepal tree (Bodhi tree) in Bodh Gaya and the West. he became the Buddha. z Earlier capital of Magadha was Girivraja or Rajgir, z After attaining enlightenment, Buddha delivered Later on, the capital shifted to Patliputra. his first sermon at Sarnath. This is known as z Brihadratha founded the famous Brihadratha dynasty Dharmachakra Pravartana. in Magadha. z Two of India’s greatest empires, the Mauryan empire and Gupta empire, originated in Magadha. 1.5 RELIGION IN ANCIENT BIHAR z Ancient Bihar was the site where two important religious sects. i.e. Buddhism and Jainism emerged and flourished. 1.5.1 Buddhism z Gautam Buddha was born in 563 BC in Lumbini (now in Nepal) in the Sakya Kshatriya clan. z He left his home at the age of 29 in search of truth. This is known as Mahabhinishkramana. z At the age of 35, he reached Uruvela on the bank of z He delivered his last sermon in Vaishali. Niranjana river and meditated there. z Buddha’s ‘Mahaparinirvana’ took place in Kushinagar. Buddhist Councils Council Year Place Headed by Patron Outcome Saptapa rani Cave, Ajatasatru Sutta P and Vinaya P was compiled 1st 483 BC Mahakassapa Rajgriha (Harayanka Dy) by Anandaand Upali resp. Vaishali monks wanted some Chullavanga, Kalashoka 2nd 383 BC Sabbakami change in rites. Division between Vaishali (Shishunaga Dy) Sthaviravad insand Mahasangikas. Compilation Abhdhanam P. Mogaliputta 3rd 250 BC Pataliputra Ashoka Missionaries were decided to Tissa send abroad Compilaion of Mahavibha Shastra. 4th 78 AD Kashmir Vasumitra Kanishka Div into MahaYand HinaY Mahavira was born in 540 BC in Kundalgram near Tripitaka z Vaishali. z The Buddhist texts compiled after five hundred years of the death of the Buddha are known as the ‘Tripitakas’. These are:  Vinaya Pitaka- related to the rules and regulations of monastic life.  Sutta Pitaka - collection of Sermons of Buddha.  Abhidhamma Pitaka - philosophical interpretation of Buddhist doctrine. 1.5.2 Jainism z Jain history had 24 Tirthankars. Rishabhdeva was the first Tirthankar and Parshvanatha was the 23rd Tirthankar, while Mahavira was the 24th and the last one. Ancient History of Bihar 7 z He left home at an age of 30 years and attained  According to the Buddhist text, ‘the Mahavamsa’ Kaivalya at the age of 42. He was called ‘Nirgranthas’. Bimbisara was appointed as the king by his father z Through Kaivalya, he conquered misery and happiness named Bhatiya at the age of 15. and came to be known as Jina or Mahavira.  Bimbisara is referred to as Shrenik in Jain texts. z He gave his first sermon in Vipul Giri (Rajgir). His first  His policy of marriage alliance for strengthening disciple was Jamali. his empire was very successful. His first wife  According to Jainism, The three gems or ratna to Kosala Devi was a Kosala princess, sister of attain Moksha are right faith, right conduct and Prasenjit. right knowledge.  Kashi was gifted to him as dowry.  Mahavira attained Nirvana in 468 BC in Pavapuri  His second wife Chellana was a Licchavi princess near Rajgriha (Rajgir). and third wife Kshema was a princess of Madra clan of Punjab. z In Jainism, two councils have been conducted.  He had conquered Anga. z First council was held at Pataliputra by Sthulabhadra  Bimbisara sent royal physician Jivaka to Ujjain, to in the beginning of the 3rd century BC, Where treat Chanda Pradyota the king of Avanti. Jainism was divided into two sects, Svetambaras  Bimbisara was also the first ruler in history to and Digambaras. form permanent forces/army. z Second council was held at Vallabhi in the 5th century AD under the leadership of Devardhi z Ajatashatru (492-460 BC) imprisoned and killed Gani Kshmasramana which resulted in the final his father, Bimbisara to become the next ruler. He compilation of 12 Angas and 12 Upangas. expanded his territory by defeating Kashi, Kosala and Vaishali.  His reign saw Buddhism and Jainism flourish 1.6 THE EARLY KINGDOMS as Mahatma Buddha (487 BC) attained z Magadha emerged as the first strongest empire of ‘Mahaparinirvana’ at Kushinagar and Lord Mahavira (468 BC) attained Nirvana or Muksha ancient India. It had its capital at Rajgriha which was in Pavapuri. later shifted to Patliputra or modern day Patna.  First Buddhist council was held in the Saptaparni 1.6.1 Brihadratha Dynasty caves at Rajagriha shortly after Buddha’s death. z This dynasty was founded in the middle of 6th  He was killed by his own son Udayin (460-440 BC). Century BC. Brihadrath was the earliest known king z Udayin succeeded Ajatashatru. of Magadha as per the Rigveda.  He founded the city of Patliputra in 455 BC z He was the founder of Brihadratha dynasty, the asurrounded by rivers Ganga and Sone and made earliest ruling dynasty of Magadha. it his capital.  His successors were weak rulers like Anuruddha, z According to Mahabharata and Puranas, Brihadrath Munda and Nagadasaka. was the eldest son of Vasu, the Kuru king of Chedi.  A civil revolt led to the emergence of the Shishunaga z Vasu founded Vasumati or Girivraja. dynasty in Magadha. z Jarasandha was the most important ruler of this dynasty. He was the son of Brihadratha. He defeated 1.6.3 Shishunaga Dynasty rulers of several contemporary states, e.g. Kashi, z The Shishunaga dynasty (412-394 BC) was founded Malwa, Agra, Banga, Kalinga etc. by Shishunaga. z According to Mahabharatha, Jarasandha was killed by z He had two capitals, one at Rajgir and another at Bhima. Girivraja (Rajgir) was the capital of Jarasandha. Vaishali. He was succeeded by Sahadev. Ripunjaya was the last z Shishunaga ended the hundred year old rivalry ruler of this dynasty. between Magadha and Avanti. z Puranas mentions Pradotya dynasty as the succesor z Shishunaga died in 394 BC and was succeeded by his of Brihadratha Dynasty in Magadha son Kalasoka. 1.6.2 Haryanka Dynasty z The second Buddhist Council (383 BC) was organised z Bimbisara (544 - 492 BC) founded the Haryanka under Kalasoka in Vaishali. dynasty and established his capital at Rajgir (Girivraja). z Kalasoka shifted his capital to Patliputra after the He was a contemporary of Buddha. second Buddhist Council. 8 Bihar Special BPSC WALLAH z According to Mahavamsa, ten sons of kalasoka ruled namely Mahapadma Nanda (Ugrasen), Panduka, Magadha after him and the last ruler was Nandivardhan Pandugati, Bhutapala, Rashtrapala, Govishanaka, (Mahanandin). Dashasiddhaka, Kaivarta and Dhana Nanda. 1.6.4 Nanda Dynasty z Dhana Nanda was the last ruler of the Nanda dynasty z Mahapadmananda established the Nanda dynasty and was a contemporary of Alexander. (344-321 BC) after killing the last Shishunaga ruler z Greeks referred to Dhana Nanda as Agrammes or Mahanandin (Nandivardhan) and assumed the title Xandremes. Ekarat. z Mahapadmananda has been described in the Puranas 1.7 THE MAURYAN EMPIRE as Mahapadma or Mahapadma Pati. z The Mauryan empire was geographically the first z Maha Bodhi Vamsa mentions him as Ugrasena. The extensive, powerful and a political military empire in Maha Bodhi Vamsa also lists down nine Nanda kings ancient India. The empire had its capital at Pataliputra. Ancient History of Bihar 9 1.7.1 Chandragupta Maurya 1.7.2 Bindusara z The Mauryan dynasty was founded by Chandragupta z Bindusara was a successful military leader who Maurya (321-298 BC) with the help of his mentor expanded the Mauryan Empire to its greatest extent. Chanakya or Kautilya, by dethroning the last Nanda He conquered the Kalinga kingdom in the east, and he ruler, Dhana Nanda in 321 BC. also extended the empire's borders into the Deccan Plateau in the south. z Different names of Bindusara- Amitrochates (Amitraghata) or Allitrochades by Greek writers, Mudrasar in Vayu Purana and Singhsen or Bindupala in various Jain literature. The Jain text Rajvalli-Katha called him Seemseri. z Syrian King Antiochus sent Deimachus as his Ambassador in the court of Bindusara. z Bindusara was also a patron of the arts and sciences. He built a number of palaces and temples, and he also supported the work of scholars and artists. Ptolemy II Philadelphus of Egypt had sent Dionysius to the court Chandragupta Maurya and Chanakya of Bindusara. z Chandra Gupta's empire stretched from the Himalayas z He supported the Ajivikas. in the north to the Deccan Plateau in the south, and from the Indus River in the west to the Bay of Bengal 1.7.3 Asoka in the east. It was one of the largest empires in the z Asoka,the great (273-232 BC) succeeded the throne ancient world, and it had a profound impact on the from his father Bindusara in 273 BC. development of Indian culture and society. According to Matsya Purana and Mudrarakshasa, the mother of Chandragupta Maurya was Mura, a Shudra woman in the court of Nandas. z In Mudrarakshasa, he has been referred as ‘Vrishala’. z As per Buddhist tradition, he belonged to the Moriya Kshatriya clan. z He fought with Seleucus Nicator (Alexander’s General) in 305 BC. Seleucus sent Megasthenes as Ambassador to the Mauryan court.  Megasthenes in his book, Indica has described Mauryan urban administration.  According to Megasthenes the empire wielded a military of 6 lakh infantry, 30,000 cavalry and 9,000 elephants.  Mauryan administration in Patliputra was under a council of 30 members divided into 6 committees of 5 members each.  Patliputra has been referred to as ‘Palibothra’. 1st century BCE/CE relief from Sanchi, showing Ashoka z Acharya Chanakya was the political advisor of on his chariot, visiting the Nagas at Ramagrama. Chandragupta Maurya who guided him. He is the z According to Dipavamsa and Mahavamsa, he had killed writer of ‘‘Arthashastra’’. 99 of his brothers, sparing only one, named Vitashoka z He also promoted trade and commerce, and he built a or Tissa, to become Mauryan king. strong military. According to Jain sources (Parishishta Parvan) Chandragupta embraced Jainism towards the z Asoka’s empire extended in the South to the Cholas end of his life and stepped down from the throne for and Pandyas and in the North to Kashmir and Nepal his son Bindusara. in the North-East. z He went to Shravanabelagola with the Jain monks and z Ashoka fought the Kalinga war in 261 BC. starved himself to death. z It is mentioned in his major rock edict XIII. 10 Bihar Special BPSC WALLAH z The Hathigumpha inscription found in Odisha service, and the judiciary. Each department was mentioned about this devastating war that changed headed by a high-ranking official who was appointed the mind of Asoka. by the emperor. z Here are some of the key reasons why Ashoka is z The government had a system of spies and informants called the Great: who kept the emperor informed about what was z He was a skilled military leader who expanded the happening in the empire. The government also had Mauryan Empire to its greatest extent. a system of roads and messengers that allowed it z He was a devout Buddhist who promoted non- to communicate quickly with different parts of the violence and compassion. empire. z He was a wise and just ruler who built hospitals Here are some of the key features of the Mauryan and schools. administration: z After the Kalinga war, Asoka embraced Buddhism z The empire was divided into four provinces each ruled under the influence of Buddhist monk Upagupta and by a Governor. began to be known as Dhammasoka. z Chanakya propounded the Saptanga Theory according z Asoka is also mentioned as Devanampriya and to which the kingdom was divided into 7 elements Priyadarshee in many inscriptions. which were Svamin (king), Amatya (ministers), z He is mentioned as King of Magadha in Bhabru Janapada (people), Durg (fort), Kosa (treasury), Bala inscription. (army) and Mitra (ally). z Asoka convened the third Buddhist Council in 250 BC z 18 Tirthas or Mahamatyas were appointed such at Patliputra with Moggaliputta Tissa as the President. as ministers, head priest, commander-in-chief and crown prince who were paid in silver coins. z With this, Buddhist ideals spread in Sri Lanka, South- East Asia, West Asia and Mediterranean Europe. z Military organisation was under the control of Senapati under whom there were several officials of z After Asoka’s death, the Mauryan empire began to different wings doing their duties. decline. z There were two kinds of courts, Dharmasthiyas (Civil z The Arthashastra, the edicts of Asoka and courts) and Kantaka Shodhana (Criminal courts). Ashokavardhana are primary sources of written records of the Mauryan times. z Rajjukas were the officers who were responsible for z Asoka had built 84,000 stupas. He had built many the land measurement and fixing the boundaries stone pillars and inscriptions. and they were the people who controlled the z Three pillar inscriptions of Asoka are situated in districts. Bihar i.e. Lauriya Areraj, in East Champaran district z Gopas were the officers incharge of villages and village and Lauriya Nandangarh and Rampurwa pillar Sarpanch was known as Gramani. inscriptions in West Champaran district. z The Mauryan economy was managed by 27 superintendents called Adhyakshas. 1.7.4 Mauryan Administration z The currency consisted of silver coins (Panas), copper z The Mauryans were a highly organized and efficient coins (Mashaka) and gold coins (Niskha). empire, and their administration was one of the most z Guilds/Srenis organised different types of work sophisticated in the ancient world. such as jewellery, wood work, metal work and hired z The Mauryan administration was centralized, with labour. the emperor at the top of the hierarchy. The emperor z Megasthenes refers to the presence of seven castes in was assisted by a council of ministers, who were the Mauryan society i.e. philosophers, farmers, soldiers, responsible for different aspects of the government. herdsmen, artisans, magistrates and councillors. The ministers were appointed by the emperor, and z The Viceroys of Tosali and Ujjaini were called as they could be dismissed at his discretion. Kumaras as per Kalinga rock edicts and Viceroy of z The Mauryan administration was divided into a number Suvarnagiri were known as Aryaputra. of departments, each of which was responsible for a z The Mauryan administration was a significant different aspect of government. These departments achievement in the history of India. It was a highly included the treasury, the army, the navy, the postal sophisticated and efficient system of government that Ancient History of Bihar 11  helped to create a vast and powerful empire. The 1.8.2 Kanva Dynasty Mauryan administration also had a lasting impact on z The Kanva dynasty was a short-lived dynasty that ruled the development of the Indian government. over the northern Indian subcontinent from 73 to 26 BCE. It was founded by Vasudeva Kanva, a Brahman 1.7.5 Decline of the Mauryas scholar who assassinated the last Sunga emperor, z After the death of Asoka, the empire was divided into Devabhuti. The Kanva dynasty was a time of relative two parts i.e Western and Eastern parts. peace and stability, and it saw the development of new  Western part was ruled by Asoka’s son Kunala forms of art and architecture. and the Eastern part by Dasaratha, Asoka’s z The Kanvas were a Brahman family from Magadha, grandson. and they were opposed to the Sunga dynasty's policy z Due to the Bactrian invasion, the Western part of of religious persecution. Vasudeva Kanva restored the empire collapsed, but the Eastern part remained Hinduism to its former position of prominence, and intact under Samprati, Asoka’s another grandson who he also promoted the arts and sciences. was a patron of Jainism. z Susharman was the last ruler of this dynasty. z Brihadratha was the last ruler of the Mauryan empire. Who was assassinated by Pushyamitra Shunga. 1.8.3 Kushana Dynasty z The Kushan Empire was a large empire that ruled 1.8 POST-MAURYAN DYNASTIES IN BIHAR over much of Central Asia and northern India from the 1st to the 3rd centuries CE. It was founded by 1.8.1 Shunga Dynasty Kujula Kadphises. Remains of the Kushan era have z The Shunga dynasty (184-72 BC) was founded by been discovered from the Magadha region as well. Pushyamitra Sunga, a general who assassinated the They started their campaign into this region in around last Maurya emperor, Brihadratha. the 1st century AD. z Pushyamitra ruled over Magadha, Kosala, Sakala, z There is evidence of Kushana ruler Kanishka (78- Malwa and Berar. 125AD) attacking Patliputra, as it was the capital of z He was a staunch follower of Brahmanism. Magadha. z Divyavadana and Taranath depict Pushyamitra as an z He took along with him the famous Buddhist monk enemy of the Buddhists, but there is enough evidence Asvaghosa. to prove that Pusyamitra patronised Buddhist art. z After the decline of the Kushan empire, this region z Buddhist monuments at Bharhut and Sanchi were was ruled by Licchavis. renovated during his period. z Many coins of Kushana dynasty are found from z Two Ashwamedha Yajna were held in his reign which Chirand, Buxar, Bodh Gaya, Vaishali and Kumrahar. are supported by Ayodhya inscriptions of Dhandev. z Patanjali, the great Sanskrit scholar and author of 1.9 THE GOLDEN AGE: GUPTAS Mahabhashya was the main priest of these Yajna. z Guptas succeeded in bringing major parts of India z Buddhist records such as the Ashoka Vardhana under a unified administration. mentions that the assassination of Brihadratha and the z The difference between Gupta empire and rise of the Shunga empire led to a wave of persecution Mauryan empire’s administration was that in the of Buddhists and a resurgence of Hinduism. Mauryan administration, power was centralised z Brahmanical social ideals and institutions saw an but in the Gupta administration, power was more increase and Buddhism gradually declined. decentralised. z After the death of Pushyamitra in 148 BC, his son z The Gupta empire was divided into provinces and the Agnimitra ascended the throne. He was the hero of provinces were further divided into districts. Villages Kalidasa’s drama Malavikagnimitram. were the smallest units. z According to the Puranas, Devbhuti was the 10th and z Srigupta was the first king of the Gupta empire. last ruler of the Shunga dynasty. He established the empire in 275 AD. Probably he z Despite the political turmoil, the Sunga dynasty was ruled over a small portion of North Bengal and also a time of cultural and intellectual achievement. South Bihar. The Sunga dynasty saw the rise of Buddhism, which became the dominant religion in India. The Sunga z Ghatotkacha succeeded his father Srigupta. These two dynasty also saw the development of new forms of kings together ruled around the region of Magadha. art and architecture, such as the stupa and the pillar. z They were subordinate to the later Kushanas. 12 Bihar Special BPSC WALLAH  z He was the first king with the title of Maharajadhiraj Gupta Period is Considered the Golden and started the Gupta era in 319-320 AD. Age of India z Chandragupta I was married to a Licchavi princess z Political stability: The Gupta Empire was a Kumardevi. powerful and well-organized empire, and it enjoyed z He issued gold coins to commemorate this event. a long period of peace and stability. This allowed z Chandra Gupta I was a skilled military leader and a for the development of art, literature, and science. wise and just ruler. He extended his dominion along z Economic prosperity: The Gupta Empire was a the Ganga valley as far as Prayag and Awadh land. wealthy empire, and there was a great deal of trade and commerce. This led to a rise in the standard of 1.9.2 Samudragupta living for many people. z Religious tolerance: The Guptas were tolerant of other religions, and they allowed people of all faiths to practice their religion freely. This led to a flowering of religious thought and practice. z Cultural achievements: The Gupta period saw a flowering of art, literature, and science. This period produced some of the greatest works of Indian art and literature, and it also saw the development of z He succeeded Chandragupta I. important scientific advances. z Prayag inscription, written by Harisena mentions Samudragupta. It was written in Brahmi script and 1.9.1 Chandragupta I Sanskrit language. z Chandragupta I was the son of Ghatotkacha. He was z Samudragupta was given the title of Napoleon of India the first independent ruler of the Gupta empire. for his conquest by Vincent Arthur Smith. Ancient History of Bihar 13 z The Mathura stone inscription of Chandragupta II describes Samudragupta as an ‘exterminator of all kings’. z He led a series of successful campaigns that extended the Gupta Empire from the Himalayas in the north to the Deccan Plateau in the south. He also conquered the Kushan Empire. Samudragupta called himself Lichchavi-dauhitra. z During his period, Ceylon ruler Meghavarman was given permission to build a monastery at Bodh Gaya for Sri Lankan Buddhist pilgrims. z He was also a great patron of art and adopted the title of ‘Kaviraja’. Sanskrit was his court language. z Harisena and Vasubandhu adorned his court. z On some gold coins, he is shown playing Veena, which shows Samudragupta was also interested in music. Mahakavi Kalidasa z He was a firm believer in Hinduism and is known to z Fa-Hien, the Chinese traveller, visited India during have worshiped Lord Vishnu. the reign of Chandragupta II to study Buddhism and z He attacked the kingdoms of Padmavati, Malwa, the stayed at Patliputra. Yaudheyas, the Arjunayanas, the Maduras and the z He was the first among the Gupta Kings to issue the Abhiras and merged them in his kingdom. gold coins. He was called ‘Vikramaditya’ and took the z Samudra Gupta's military campaigns made him one of title of Simhavikrama. the most powerful rulers in the world. z He made Ujjain the second capital of his empire. 1.9.3 Chandragupta II ‘Vikramaditya’ 1.9.4 Kumaragupta I z Chandragupta II defeated and killed his brother, z Chandragupta II was succeeded by Kumargupta I Ramagupta to get the kingdom. (415-455 AD) also known as ‘Mahendraditya’. z He married his widow Dhruvadevi. z He introduced a new type of gold coin. z He established friendly relations and matrimonial z First Huna attack took place during his time and he alliances for extending his empire. was very old at that time. z He married Kubernaga, a Naga princess of central India and daughter from her, Prabhavati Gupta was married to Vakataka King Rudrasena II. z Chandra Gupta II is best known for his military campaigns. He led a series of successful campaigns that extended the Gupta Empire from the Himalayas in the north to the Deccan Plateau in the south. He also conquered the Shaka Empire, which had been a major power in the region. He conquered Mathura from Kushanas, Gujarat from Shakas and established friendly relations with Kadamba rulers. z Kumaragupta I is best known for his architectural z He is known for promoting literature. achievements. He built a number of important temples z Patliputra and Ujjaini emerged as learning centres and monuments, including the Vishnu Temple at during his reign. Deogarh and the Buddhist caves at Ajanta. He also promoted the development of Sanskrit literature and z Nine ratnas in his court were poet Kalidasa, Vetalbhatta, art. He established Nalanda University. Varahmihira, physician Dhanvantari, Varruchi, Shanku,  Nalanda University was a centre of learning from Amarsimha, Kshapanaka and Ghatakarpara. 427 to 1197 AD. 14 Bihar Special BPSC WALLAH   Famous traveller, Hiuen Tsang studied at this greatest Sanskrit poet, and Aryabhata, the first university. Indian mathematician to use the decimal system. The  The university was later destroyed by an army Guptas also built a number of impressive monuments, of the Mamluk dynasty under Bakhtiyar Khalji in including the Great Stupa at Sanchi and the Buddhist 1197 AD. caves at Ajanta. z The Gupta period was a time of peace and prosperity. 1.9.5 Skandagupta The empire was well-governed, and there was a great deal of trade and commerce. The Guptas also promoted z According to Bhitari inscriptions Skandagupta religious tolerance, and they allowed people of all defeated ‘Pushyamitras’, who were tribes and faiths to practice their religion freely. probably ruled an area located near the bank of Narmada river. z He defended the Gupta Empire from a series of invasions, including the Huns in 455 AD. z An inscription at Junagarh tells that his Governor got restoration work done on a dam in Sudarshana lake originally constructed by Chandra Gupta Maurya. z Skandagupta died in 467 CE, and he was succeeded by his son, Purugupta, who ruled for a short time. The Gupta Empire collapsed after Purugupta's death. z Vishnugupta was the last ruler of the Gupta dynasty. z The Gupta Empire began to disintegrate and smaller kingdoms emerged in Magadha like the Maukharis. z The Guptas were a powerful and wealthy empire, and they ruled over much of the Indian subcontinent. They were patrons of the arts and sciences, and they commissioned a number of works of art and architecture. z The Gupta period saw the rise of a number of great artists and scholars, including Kalidasa, the v v v Ancient History of Bihar 15  2 Medieval History of Bihar z The early part of mediaeval history in Bihar saw the z Non-Persian inscriptions give information about the rise of the Pala, Sena and Karnata dynasties, which small kingdoms which emerged after the fall of Pala enriched the social and cultural aspects of Bihar. dynasty. z In the later part, Bihar lost its importance as the  Sanokhar inscription of Ballal Sena, political and cultural centre of India in the medieval  Maner copper plate inscription of Gahadavalas, period.  Simraon pillar inscriptions z The Medieval history of Bihar consists of foreign  Andhrathadi inscriptions and invasions, battles and establishment of Muslim rule.  Pratap Malla inscriptions of Karnatas. z Bihar remained a part of Delhi Sultanate. z Slave, Khilji, Tughlaq, Sur and Noohani dynasties Monuments established their rule in Bihar. z Monuments give us information about the social, z In 1526, Babur established the rule of Mughals and religious, economic conditions of the state under the thus Bihar became a part of Mughal Empire. particular ruler. z According to the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), 2.1 SOURCES OF MEDIEVAL HISTORY there are 70 Monuments of National Importance (MNIs) in Bihar. These monuments are protected IN BIHAR by the ASI and are considered to be of national 2.1.1 Archaeological Sources importance due to their historical, archaeological, or architectural significance. Coins z Some of the most important MNIs in Bihar include: z Some coins of Alauddin Khilji were found at Jayanagar z The Mahabodhi Temple Complex: This temple in Lakhisarai district. complex is located in Bodh Gaya and is one of the most z Two copper coins bearing the name of Bajirao Shinde important pilgrimage sites in Buddhism. It is said that confirm the strong presence of Maratha in this region. the Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi z Arabic inscription of Muhammad bin Tughlaq 1326 tree at this site. AD found on the wall of Jama Mosque in Darbhanga, z The Nalanda Mahavihara: This ancient university mentions that Darbhanga became a mint town too was one of the most important centers of learning in with the title of ‘Iqlim Tughluq Pur or Tirhut’. the world. It was founded in the 5th century CE and z Akbar constructed Taksals in Patna, Azimabad and attracted students from all over Asia. Rajmahal where coins were made after 1580 AD. z The Vaishali Museum: This museum is located in Vaishali, which was an important city in the ancient Inscriptions kingdom of Magadha. The museum houses a collection Inscriptions of medieval Bihar can be classified into two of artifacts from the Mauryan and Gupta periods. categories i.e. Arabic & Persian and Non-Persian. z The Sher Shah Suri Fort: This fort was built by z Arabic and Persian inscriptions are found on the Sher Shah Suri in the 16th century CE. It is located walls of mosques, tombs, imambaras, etc. in Sasaram and is one of the best-preserved forts in z These inscriptions are mostly found in Patna, Bihar India. Sharif, Sasaram and Rajmahal. z The Vikramshila University: This ancient university z An inscription of Sher Shah found at his tomb dated was founded in the 8th century CE and was one of 1545 AD the most important centers of learning in the world. z Bedibun inscription of Muhammad-ibn-Yussaf It attracted students from all over Asia.  Medieval Monuments in Bihar of important temples and monasteries, including the Somapura Mahavihara in Paharpur, Bangladesh. Site Place z The Palas were followers of the Mahayana and Tantric District Queen’s Palace, Tomb of Bihar Sharif Nalanda schools of Buddhism. Ibrahim Bayu Tomb of Shah Makhadun, Daulat Maner Patna 2.2.1.1 Gopala Maneri and Ibrahim Khan z Gopal ascended the throne as the first King of the Pala Tomb of Hasan Shah Suri Sasaram Rohtas dynasty to avoid the situation of ‘matsya-nyaya’. Tomb of Sher Shah Suri Sasaram Rohtas z The Khalimpur copper plate inscription, 750 AD, suggests that the people of this region chose him the Rohtasgarh Fort Rohtas king. It was one of the first democratic elections in Tomb of Bakhtiyar Khan Malik Sarai Kaimur South Asia since the time of Mahajanapadas. Three Rock Inscription Sasaram Rohtas z He consolidated his position by extending his control over all of Bengal as well as parts of Bihar. 2.1.2 Literary Sources z In Odantapuri (now Bihar Sharif), a Buddhist z These sources include works of literature, such as Monastery and a University was established by Gopala. poems, plays, and histories, that were written during 2.2.1.2 Dharampala the medieval period. They provide information about the culture, religion, and social life of Bihar during this time. z The literary sources that mentions about medieval history of Bihar are Tabaqat-i-Nasiri by Minhaj-us- Siraj, Tuzuk-i-Baburi by Babur written in Turkish language, Akbar Nama by Abul Fazl, Tarikh-i- Shershahi by Abbas Sarvani, Tarikh-i-Firoz Shahi by Ziauddin Barani, Riyaz-us-Salatin by Gulam Hussain Salim, etc. z Some important works in local languages are Kirtilata, Kritpataka of Vidhyapati, Varnaratnakar of Jyotirishwar, Rajnitiratnakar of Chandreshwar Vachaspati, etc. z Sufi literature- Tajkira, Maktubat and Malkujat Dharmapala Foreigner’s Account z After Gopala, his son Dharampala (AD 770-810) z The traveller’s account of Mullah Takiya, Abdul Latif, succeeded to the throne in 770 AD. Mohammad Sadiq Wahbahani, Basatin-ul-Uns, etc. z The empire reached its peak under Dharampala and z The accounts of European travellers include Peter Devapala. Mundi, John Travernier, Mannuchi Bishop, Ralph Fitch, etc. z Dharampala extended the empire in the Northern parts of the Indian subcontinent. 2.2 EARLY MEDIEVAL PERIOD IN BIHAR z After capturing Kannauj, he gained the title of Uttarapatha Swami and organised a grand Darbar in z Pala dynasty emerged as a strong dynasty from mid Kannauj. 7th century to early part of 11th century. z Dharampala was a Buddhist. He established z After the Pala dynasty, Sena and Karnata dynasties Vikramshila University. also emerged. z He also gave 200 villages for the maintenance of 2.2.1 Pala Dynasty Nalanda University. z Gopala (AD 750-770) was the first ruler and the 2.2.1.3 Devapala founder of Pala dynasty. z Devapala (AD 810-850), successor of Dharampala, z The Palas were a Buddhist dynasty, and they were extended the empire to South Asia and beyond. patrons of the arts and sciences. They built a number z He made Munger as his capital. Medieval History of Bihar 17 z According to the Pala copper plate inscription, z Personalities like Jayadev, the author of Gita Devapala conquered the Utkalas and the Pragjyotisha Govinda; the linguist Halayudha, Dhoyi, the author of (Assam). Pavanadutam adorned his court. z The inscriptions of Devapala have been found in Ghorawan, Hilsa, Nalanda and Munger. 2.2.3 Karnata Dynasty z Balaputradeva, ruler of Suvarnabhumi, founded a z The Karnata or Karnat dynasty was a dynasty that Buddhist monastery at Nalanda during his time. ruled over the Mithila region of Bihar from the 11th to the 13th centuries CE. The Karnatas were a branch z The Pala kings also patronised Hinduism. of the Chalukya dynasty, and they were originally from z They gave donations for construction of temples the Deccan Plateau. They were invited to Mithila by and for educational purposes like setting gurukuls. the Pala king, Mahipala II, to help him fight against the z The Pala kings had close trade relations with South- rising power of the Sena dynasty. East Asia and China. z Nanyadeva (1097-1135 CE): Nanyadeva was the founder of the Karnata dynasty. He was a skilled 2.2.1.4 Mahipala I military leader, and he was able to defeat the Senas z In 988 AD, Mahipala succeeded to the throne. and establish his own dynasty in Mithila. z He was a great patron of music. He analysed different z He was also known as the second founder of the Pala ragas and wrote a treatise on music. dynasty. z Simraon in Champaran was the capital of Karnata z Bihar and Bengal were invaded by the South Indian dynasty. Emperor Rajendra Chola I of the Chola dynasty in the z Later Kamladityya Sthan (Kamlathan) became their 11th century during the reign of Mahipala I. capital which is now known as Andhrathadi in z In 1023 AD, Mahipala fought with Rajendra Chola of Madhubani district. Chola Dynasty in which he was defeated. z Other rulers of this dynasty were Ganga Singh Deva, z Mahipala I died in the same year along with which the Narsingh Dev and Harisimhadeva. Pala dynasty came to an end. z Ganga Singh Deva was an able administrator and the z The Pala dynasty declined in the 12th century CE, and son of Nanyadeva. it was eventually overthrown by the Sena dynasty. z Narsingh Deva had the possession of Tirhut and However, the Palas left a lasting legacy on Indian Darbhanga areas. history. z Harisimhadeva was the last ruler of Karnata dynasty. z He was a great patron of art and literature. 2.2.2 Sena Dynasty z In his court Jyotirishwar, the author of ‘Varna Ratnakar’ z The Sena dynasty was a Hindu dynasty that ruled was the royal priest. over much of the eastern Indian subcontinent from z The period of Karnata rulers is also known as the the 10th to the 12th centuries CE. Golde