BPSC WALLAH Books - Bihar Special Revision Booklet PDF

Published By: Physicswallah Private Limited Physics Wallah Publication ISBN: 978-93-6034-394-1 MRP: 229/- Mobile App: Physics Wallah (Available on Play Store) Website: https://www.pw.live;https://pwonlyias.com/ Email: [email protected] Rights All rights are reserved with the Publisher. Disclaimer A team of PW OnlyIAS experts and faculties with a deep understanding of the subject has worked hard for the creation and curation of this book. While the content creators, editors and publisher have used their best efforts in preparing these books. The content has been. checked for accuracy. As the book is intended for educational purposes, the author shall not be responsible for any errors contained in the book. The publication has designed the content to provide accurate and authoritative information with regard to the subject matter covered. (This Book shall only be used for educational purposes.) PREFACE A highly skilled professional team of BPSC Wallah works arduously to ensure that the students receive the best content for the BPSC exam. A plethora of BPSC study materials are available in the market, but BPSC Wallah professionals continuously work to provide supreme-quality study material for our BPSC students. From the beginning, the whole content team comprising Content Creators, Reviewers, DTP operators, Proofreaders and others are involved in shaping the material to their best knowledge and experience to produce powerful content for the students. Faculties have adopted a new style of presenting the content in easy-to-understand language and have provided the team with guidance and supervision throughout the creation of this book. BPSC Wallah strongly believes in conceptual and fun-based learning and provide highly exam-oriented content to bring quality and clarity to the students. The main objective of the study material is to provide short, crisp, concise and high-quality content to our students. BOOKLET FEATURES Holistic coverage of topics, strictly as per exam syllabus. One-stop solution for prelims based, subject-wise coverage. Diagrams and Timelines for quick understanding and revision. Quick Revision Module for the BPSC Prelims examination. Every topic is structured in headings and bullets for easy understanding of the students. TABLE OF CONTENTS SECTION I: INTRODUCTION 1. Bihar: at a Glance.............................................................................................................................................................. 3 SECTION II: BIHAR HISTORY ANCIENT HISTORY OF BIHAR 1. Sources of Ancient History of Bihar.................................................................................................................................. 7 2. Bihar in 6th Century BC: The Mahajanapadas................................................................................................................ 10 3. Bihar during Pre-Mauryan Period................................................................................................................................... 12 4. Mauryan Period.............................................................................................................................................................. 14 5. Post-Mauryan Period in Bihar......................................................................................................................................... 17 6. The Gupta Empire........................................................................................................................................................... 18 MEDIEVAL HISTORY OF BIHAR 1. Sources of Medieval History in Bihar.............................................................................................................................. 19 2. Early Medieval Period in Bihar........................................................................................................................................ 21 3. Medieval Bihar [11th-16th Century]............................................................................................................................... 22 MODERN HISTORY OF BIHAR 1. Europeans in Bihar.......................................................................................................................................................... 28 2. Tribal Revolts of Bihar..................................................................................................................................................... 31 3. Revolt of 1857................................................................................................................................................................. 33 4. Role of Bihar in the Struggle for Indian Freedom........................................................................................................... 35 5. Development of Western Education in Bihar................................................................................................................. 41 SECTION III: BIHAR GEOGRAPHY 1. Geographical Structure of Bihar..................................................................................................................................... 43 2. Climate and Soil of Bihar................................................................................................................................................. 49 3. Drainage System in Bihar................................................................................................................................................ 52 4. Environment and Fore.................................................................................................................................................... 58 5. Mineral Resources of Bihar............................................................................................................................................. 61 6. Bihar: Census 2011 & Caste Survey 2023........................................................................................................................ 63 7. Tribes of Bihar................................................................................................................................................................. 66 8. GI Tags of Bihar............................................................................................................................................................... 67 9. Bihar: Division and District Profile.................................................................................................................................. 69 SECTION IV: BIHAR POLITY 1. Bihar Executive................................................................................................................................................................ 80 2. Bihar Legislature............................................................................................................................................................. 83 3. Constitutional and Non-Constitutional Bodies in Bihar.................................................................................................. 84 4. Bihar Judiciary................................................................................................................................................................. 86 5. Panchayati Raj System in Bihar....................................................................................................................................... 90 SECTION V: BIHAR ECONOMY 1. Bihar Economy................................................................................................................................................................ 94 2. Agriculture and Allied Sectors in Bihar............................................................................................................................ 96 3. Industries in Bihar:.......................................................................................................................................................... 99 4. Infrastructure in Bihar:.................................................................................................................................................... 99 5. Banking and Allied Sectors............................................................................................................................................ 102 7. Urban Development...................................................................................................................................................... 104 8. Social Welfare:.............................................................................................................................................................. 104 9. Child Development........................................................................................................................................................ 109 SECTION VI: MISCELLANEOUS 01 SECTION I: INTRODUCTION CHAPTER 1: BIHAR: AT A GLANCE General Introduction: The word “Bihar” has been derived from “Vihara”, which means Buddhist monasteries. It is located in the eastern part of India and is an entirely land-locked state. Capital of Bihar Patna It is located on the southern bank of the river Ganga. It is bounded by nine districts: Nalanda, Arwal, Jehanabad, Lakhisarai, Begusarai, Samastipur, Vaishali, Saran and Bhojpur. Foundation 22nd March 1912 (as Bihar-Orissa Province) ○ Bihar Diwas is celebrated on 22nd March every year. ○ It was first celebrated on a grand scale in 2010 due to efforts of present chief minister Nitish Kumar. ○ 112th Statehood Day was celebrated on 22nd March, 2024. First division: Orissa in 1936. Second division: Jharkhand (15th November, 2000) ○ 45.85% of Bihar’s total area was carved out to form the new state of Jharkhand. Official Language Hindi Second official language: Urdu Maximum Spoken Regional Language: Maithili (added in 8th Schedule of the Indian Constitution by 92nd Constitutional Amendment Act, 2003) High Court Patna High Court K Vinod Chandran has been appointed as the new Chief Justice of Patna High Court. ○ ○ He replaced Justice Sanjay Karol, who has been elevated as the judge of the Supreme Court. ○ He was administered the oath of office and secrecy by the Governor of Bihar, Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar on 29th March, 2023. ○ He will retire on 26th April, 2025. ○ Earlier, he served as the senior most judge of the Kerala High Court. Important Facts to Remember: ○ The foundation stone of the High Court Building of Patna was laid on 1st December, 1913 by Lord Hardinge. ○ Patna High Court was established on 3rd February 1916. ○ It started its work with one Chief Justice and six other puisne judges. ○ Sir Edward Maynard Des Champs Chamier was the first Chief Justice of the Patna High Court. ○ The Patna High Court has a sanctioned strength of 53 judges. ○ At present (till 8th June, 2024), it has 34 judges [1 Chief Justice+33 other Judges].  Justice Arvind Singh Chandel took oath as a judge of the Patna High Court on 8th June, 2024.  He was administered oath by the Bihar Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar. 3 Bihar Special Revision Booklet Visit us: pw.live | Contact us: 70192 43492  He was transferred to Patna High Court from Chhattisgarh High Court on May 29, 2023. State Symbols State Animal: Gaur (Scientific Name: Bos Indicus) State Flower: Marigold (Scientific Name: Tagetes Erecta) State Bird: Home Sparrow (Scientific Name: Passer Domesticus) State Tree: Peepal (Scientific Name: Ficus Religiosa) Area of Bihar 94,163 square kms. It is 2.86% of India’s total area. Bihar is the 12th largest state of India by area among states. Geographical North: Nepal Boundaries ○Districts sharing boundary with Nepal: West Champaran, East Champaran, Sitamarhi, Madhubani, Supaul, Araria and Kishanganj. ○ Length of Bihar-Nepal border: 729 kms. ○ Five States of India share a boundary with Nepal: Bihar [729 kms], Uttar Pradesh [560 kms], Uttarakhand [263 kms], West Bengal [100kms] and Sikkim [99 kms] West: Uttar Pradesh ○ Districts sharing boundary with Uttar Pradesh are: West Champaran, Gopalganj, Saran, Siwan, Bhojpur, Buxar, Kaimur and Rohtas. South: Jharkhand ○ Districts sharing boundary with Jharkhand are Rohtas, Kaimur, Aurangabad, Gaya, Nawada, Jamui, Bhagalpur and Banka. East: West Bengal ○ Districts sharing boundary with West Bengal are Kishanganj, Purnia, and Katihar. Physical Features Latitudinal extent: 24°20’10” N to 27°31’15” N Longitudinal extent: 83° 19’50” E to 88° 17’40” E East-West Extent: 483 kms North-South Extent: 345 kms Height above Sea Level: 173 feet Administrative Units Divisions: 9 Districts: 38 [Arwal in Magadh division=38th district] Top five districts in terms of area: ○ West Champaran ○ Gaya ○ East Champaran ○ Rohtas ○ Kaimur. Sheohar is the smallest district in terms of area in Bihar. Sub-division: 101 Community Development blocks: 534. Panchayats: 8406. Polity Lok Sabha seats: 40 Rajya Sabha seats: 16 4 Bihar Special Revision Booklet Visit us: pw.live | Contact us: 70192 43492 Legislative Assembly seats: 243 ○ It came into existence in 1937. Legislative Council seats: 75 ○ It was formed in 1912 with a strength of 43 members. ○ The first sitting of the council took place on 20th January, 1913 at Bankipore. ○ Under the Government of India Act, 1935, the council consisted of 29 members. ○ After the 1st General elections in 1952, no of members increased to 72 and in 1958, it was increased to 96. ○ By Bihar Reorganisation Act, 2000, the strength of council was reduced from 96 to 75 members. Seats Reserved for SC in Lok Sabha: 06 Seats Reserved for SC in Legislative Assembly: 38 Seats reserved for ST in Legislative Assembly: 02 Bihar: First in World First democratic Republic of the World: Vajji Sangha. First Yoga University in the World: Munger. World’s Highest Buddha Stupa: Kesariya [Champaran] First Mathematician of the World: Aryabhatt First University in the World: Nalanda University. First in Bihar First Chief Minister: Shri Krishna Singh. First female Chief Minister: Rabri Devi. First Muslim Chief Minister: Abdul Gaffoor First Dalit Chief Minister: Bhola Paswan Shastri. First Deputy Chief Minister: Anuragha Naryan Sinha First Independent Chief Minister: Mahamaya Prasad Sinha. First Governor after Independence: Jai Ram Das Daulat Ram First Muslim Governor: Zakir Hussain First Post-holders from First Indian Governor during British rule: S.P Sinha Bihar First Chairman of the Constituent Assembly: ○ Dr. Sachchidanand Sinha (Temporary President on 9th December, 1946). ○ Dr Rajendra Prasad (Elected as permanent President on 11th December, 1946). First President of India: Dr Rajendra Prasad First Mathematician in India: Aryabhatt. First Woman Lok Sabha Speaker: Meira Kumar First Deputy Prime Minister of India: Jagjivan Ram First-Movies in Bihar First Bhojpuri movie: Ganga Maiya Tohe Piyari Chadhaibo. First Maithili movie: Kanyadaan. First Hindi movie: Kal Hamara Hai. First-Newspapers in First daily Hindi Newspaper: Sarva Hitaishi Bihar 5 Bihar Special Revision Booklet Visit us: pw.live | Contact us: 70192 43492 First weekly Hindi Newspaper: Bihar Bandhu First English daily newspaper: The Searchlight. First English weekly newspaper: The Bihar Herald. Others: First in Bihar First T.V Relay Centre: Muzaffarpur First Ancient University: Nalanda University [5th Century AD] First Modern University: Patna University (1917) First Open University: Nalanda University. First to receive Jnanpith Award: Dr. Ramdhari Singh Dinkar for “Urvashi” (1972). First to receive Ashok-Chakra: Randheer Verma. First Oil Refinery Centre: Barauni in Begusarai with Russia’s support. First Sugar Mill in Bihar: Marhaura in Saran district. First Irrigation Project: Son Project. UNESCO World Mahabodhi Temple Complex, Bodh Gaya (2002) Heritages Sites in Bihar Archaeological site of Nalanda Mahavihara (2016 Dr. Rajendra Prasad in 1962. Persons from Bihar who Dr. Zakir Hussain in 1963. received the Bharat Maulana Abul Kalam Azad in 1992 Ratna Jai Prakash Narayan in 1999 Ustad Bismillah Khan in 2000. Karpoori Thakur in 2024. Alternative Names of Jai Prakash Narayan Loknayak, JP Eminent Personalities Dr. Rajendra Prasad Deshratna, Ajatshatru Dr. Shri Krishna Singh Bihar Kesari Ramdhari Singh Dinkar Rashtra Kavi Babu Jagjivan Ram Babujee Baidya Nath Mishra Baba, Nagarjuna Dr. Anugraha Naryana Sinha Bihar Vibhuti Vidyapati Mahakavi, Maithil Kokil Karpoori Thakur Jannayak 6 Bihar Special Revision Booklet Visit us: pw.live | Contact us: 70192 43492 02 SECTION II: BIHAR HISTORY ANCIENT HISTORY OF BIHAR CHAPTER 1: Sources of Ancient History of Bihar Archaeological Evidences Prehistoric Stone Age: Palaeolithic Sites The tools, hand axe and different other instruments made of stones of this period have (About 1,00,000 BC): been obtained from: ○ Jethian Valley of Nalanda in Bihar. ○ Pemar Valley of Gaya. ○ Bhimbandh and Paisara of Munger. ○ Rajpokhar and Malijore of Bhagalpur. ○ Valmiki Nagar of West Champaran. Mesolithic sites Santhal Pargana, Ranchi, Hazaribagh, and Singhbhum (all in Jharkhand). (1,00,000 - 40,000 BC): Instruments made of stones found from Munger (9,000 - 4,000 BC) Neolithic Micro instruments made of stone and bones found from Chirand (Saran) and Chechar (2500 and 1500 B.C.): (Vaishali). ○ Chirand - Neolithic bone tools. ○ Chechar in Vaishali, Taradih, Senuwar and Maner - Black and red ware, ochre (yellow) painted pottery and spotted vessels Developed Settlements: Chechar (Swetpur), Chirand, Taradih, Maner and Senuwar. Neolithic Tools: Bhimbandh (Munger), Keur (Gaya), Senuwar (Rohtas), Chechar and Kutubpur (Hajipur). Other Sites: Tools, hand axes, and cleavers of early and old stone age have been found at Paisra in Munger. Rock paintings are discovered in the hills of Nawada, Kaimur and Jamui. Chalcolithic Sites: Different potteries have been excavated from Taradih, Chirand, Chechar, Maner, Sonepur and Vaishali. A number of Chalcolithic Age (2000 BC - 700 BC) artifacts have been discovered in the middle Ganga plains of Bihar. ○ Chirand (Saran), Maner (Patna), Onup and Champa (Bhagalpur), Chechar- Kutubpur (Vaishali), Sonpur(Saran) and Taradih (Gaya). ○ The black and red wares, copper wares are found in the sites of this period. 7 Bihar Special Revision Booklet Visit us: pw.live | Contact us: 70192 43492 Historic Age Architecture The archaeological remains of the Mauryan period includes ruins of the eighty pillared hall located at Kumhrar (Patna). ○ It was excavated by Spooner, Altekar and Mishra. Polished pillars of Ashoka were discovered at Vaishali, Lauriya Areraj, Lauriya Nandangarh and Rampurva. Remains of monumental buildings of the Kushana period were found at Chirand. The Pala-Sena School of Art flourished in Gaya, Nalanda and Nawada. Inscriptions Stone Inscriptions: The earliest deciphered inscriptions belong to the time of Ashoka. Inscriptions on pillars are found in Lauriya Areraj, Lauriya Nandangarh and Rampurva. They were written in Brahmi script and Prakrit language and belong to Emperor Ashoka’s period. Inscriptions of Mauryan King Dasaratha on the Nagarjuni hills tells us about the patronage of Ajivikas at that period. Copper Plate Inscriptions: Copper plate inscriptions from Gaya and Nalanda and seals found in Vaishali and Nalanda belong to the Gupta period. Inscriptions of Bodhgaya are associated with Sri Lankan Monk Mahamana II. 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. ○ Bhagalpur copper plate inscriptions belong to Narayanapala. ○ Bhangarh copper plate belongs to Vigrahapala. Other important inscriptions: Some inscriptions belonging to Pratiharas and Gahadavalas were also found. The Gahadavala plate of Maner describes the revenue system of Patna during the first half of the 12th century AD. Other important inscriptions are Panchobha copper plate inscriptions of Samudra Gupta in Bhagalpur, Janibigha inscriptions in Gaya, Deopara inscriptions etc. Coins: Punch-marked coins made of silver were found in Golakpur in Patna and Purnea. Coins at Buxar and Chirand belong to the Kushan empire. Coins belonging to the Gupta period were found in Hajipur. Literary Sources Literary sources include Vedic literature, Puranas, Epics, Buddhist literature, Jain literature, Non-religious and Foreign literature. Vedic Literature In Rigveda, the region of Bihar was called Kikata and the people were called Vratyas. The earliest reference of Bihar is found in Atharvaveda and Panchvimsha Brahman. Atharvaveda refers to Magadha people along with Angas, Gandharis and Mujavants. Aryans started moving towards the Eastern part of India in the later Vedic period (1000-600 BCE). 8 Bihar Special Revision Booklet Visit us: pw.live | Contact us: 70192 43492 The Satapatha Brahmana mentions the arrival and spread of Aryans in North-Bihar. According to Satapatha Brahmana, there was a well established Aryan civilisation besides the Ganga in Bihar which was known as Kingdom of Videha. During the later Vedic period, the Janaka dynasty was replaced by small independent territories who formed republics called Janapadas. Some Janapads combined to form Mahajanapadas. Puranas Reference of Bihar is found in Vishnu Purana, Vayu Purana, Matsya Purana. ○ Vishnu Purana - Mauryan dynasty. ○ Vayu Purana - Gupta dynasty ○ Matsya Purana - Shunga dynasty. Varaha Purana mentions ‘Kikat’ as an inauspicious place and Gaya, Punpun and Rajgir as auspicious places. Epics or Mahakavyas Videha (King Janaka of Mithila region in Bihar) from the Ramayana, and Anga (Karna) from the Mahabharata. Buddhist Literature Anguttara Nikaya, Digha Nikaya, Vinaya pitaka, Divyavadana are the most important literary sources of the ancient history of Bihar. The Anguttara Nikaya mentions sixteen Mahajanapadas and kingdoms and republics of North India. Most of the Buddhist literature was written in Pali language. Vinaya Pitaka gives an account on the history of the monarchy of Magadha and Republic of Vaishali. The chronology of pre-Mauryan kings of Magadha is provided by ‘Dipavamsa’ and ‘Mahavamsa’. Divyavadan mentions the history of Shunga dynasty. Ashokavadana gives an organised life history of Ashoka. Buddhist text Aryamanjusrimulakalpa describes the political history of Bihar under the Guptas. Jain Literature In Jain literature, Theravali (Written by Merutung) and Bhagwati Sutra are major sources of history of ancient Bihar. Theravali is the part of ‘Kalpa Sutra’ which gives us the names of the places where Mahavira spent his time. Kalpa Sutra and Uttara Dhyan Sutra- about Pushyamitra Shunga. Bhagwati Sutra- about the Licchavi of Vaishali. Kalpa Sutra and Parishist Parwan- about Chandragupta Maurya. Non-religious Literary Arthashastra about Mauryan administration in Patliputra, Sources Mudrarakshasa which describes conflicts in Mauryan period, Malavikagnimitram, Kathasaritsagara, Gargi Samhita, Manusmriti, Si-yu-ki, etc. Foreign Accounts Megasthenes visited India during the reign of Chandra Gupta Maurya sometime between 302 to 288 BCE, but exact dates of his visit in India are not certain. Megasthenes’ Indica described the Mauryan administration of Patliputra in detail. Fa-Hien visited India during 399 to 412 AD in the reign of Chandragupta II and has described the Magadha empire. Hiuen Tsang described in his book Si-yu-ki (records of the western countries) about Nalanda University. Hiuen Tsang stayed at the Nalanda University for about 5 years. I-Tsing traveled in India between 671 to 695 BCE during later Gupta rule. He stayed at Nalanda for 11 years. 9 Bihar Special Revision Booklet Visit us: pw.live | Contact us: 70192 43492 CHAPTER 2: Bihar in 6th Century BC: The Mahajanapadas By 500 BC, sixteen monarchies and republics known as the Mahajanapadas were formed. These were stretched across the Indo-Gangetic plains from modern-day Afghanistan to Bengal and Maharashtra. These Mahajanapadas were Kosi, Kosala, Anga, Magadha, Vajji (Vriji), Malla, Chedi, Vatsa (Vamsa), Kuru, Panchala, Matsya, Surasena, Assaka or Asmaka, Avanti, Gandhara and Kamboja. Out of sixteen Mahajanapadas, three (Anga, Vajji and Magadha) were in Bihar. Mahajanapadas in Bihar Anga First mentioned in Atharvaveda, this kingdom comprised Khagaria, Bhagalpur and Munger of present time. It was situated in the North-East of Magadha. Capital: Champa (corresponds to Bhagalpur of present-day Bihar). ○ Earlier name of Champa was Malini, which was established by Maha Govind. ○ Chinese traveler Hiuen Tsang has referred to it as Chenpo. According to Mahabharata, there were six sons of King Bali, one of which was Anga. The kingdom was established by Anga. It was the kingdom of Karna. The first king of Anga was Titikshu. The last three kings of independent Anga were Dadivahana, Drdhavarman and Brahmadatta. ○ Bimbisara killed Brahmadatta, last king of Anga Kingdom and merged Anga into Magadha. Vajji/Vriji Capital: Vaishali. Vajji kingdom was spread over present day Champaran, Saran, Muzaffarpur, Sitamarhi and Darbhanga districts. The Vajji comprised eight confederated clans. Out of eight clans, the Vaishali, the Videhas and the Jnatrikas were the most important. ○ Vaishali (Licchavi)  Vaishali was an independent clan.  Location: Northern banks of the Ganga, spread over present day Bihar and some regions of Nepal with its capital at Vaishali.  Named after: King Vishal of the Mahabharata era.  It was an important center of Buddhism and the headquarters of the Vajji republic.  Lord Mahavira was born at Kundagram in Vaishali.  Panini used the term Vrij for Vajji.  Various Jain literature describes Licchavis.  Vaishali is considered to be the world’s first republic and had an elected assembly of representatives.  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.  Mother of Lord Mahavira, Trishala was sister of King Chetaka of Vaishali. Chetaka married his daughter Chellana to Bimbisara of Magadha.  Vaishali was conquered by Ajatashatru, King of Magadha. ○ Videha (Mithila)  Location: Northern side of Ganga, presently located in the Northern Bihar and Eastern Terai region of Nepal. 10 Bihar Special Revision Booklet Visit us: pw.live | Contact us: 70192 43492  Capital: Janakpur (now part of Nepal).  First mentioned in Yajurveda.  Videha is also mentioned in both the Ramayana and the Mahabharata as comprising parts of Bihar and extending into small parts of Nepal.  This kingdom was started by Ikshvaku’s son Nimi Videh.  Mithijanak Videh, the next king, had established Mithila.  Hindu Goddess Sita was the princess of Videha. She was the daughter of Raja Janaka of Videha. ○ Jnatrikas  Mahavira Jain was a Jnatrika and his father was the head of Jnatrika clan and his mother was a Licchavi princess. Magadha Location: Its area extended from Ganga in the North to Vindhayas in the South and Champa in the East to river Sone in the West. Capital: Earlier capital of Magadha was Girivraja or Rajgir, which was surrounded from all sides by five hills. Later on, the capital shifted to Patliputra. First mentioned in Atharvaveda. It was a strong republic in the Buddha period which later on became a strong kingdom. Brihadratha founded the famous Brihadratha dynasty in Magadha. Two of India’s greatest empires, the Mauryan empire and Gupta empire, originated in Magadha. Emergence of Buddhism and Jainism Ancient India witnessed the emergence of two new sects, Buddhism and Jainism. Both the religions emerged and flourished in Bihar. Buddhism Mahatma Buddha Birth: 563 BC in Lumbini (now in Nepal) in the Sakya Kshatriya clan. Mahabhinishkramana: He left his home at the age of 29 in search of truth. Enlightenment: ○ At the age of 35, he reached Uruvela on the bank of Niranjana River and meditated there. ○ He attained enlightenment in 528 BC while meditating under a Peepal tree (Bodhi tree) in Bodh Gaya and he became the Buddha. Dharmachakra Pravartana: After attaining enlightenment, Buddha delivered his first sermon at Sarnath. ○ He delivered his last sermon in Vaishali. Mahaparinirvana: Took place in Kushinagar. Buddhist Councils First Buddhist Council (483 BC): Conducted in Rajgir (Rajgriha) under the patronage of Ajatashatru and presided over by the monk Mahakasyapa. The council deliberated on how to preserve Buddha’s teaching (sutta) and rules for disciples (Vinaya). The Second Buddhist Council (383 BC): Held in Vaishali under the patronage of King Kalashoka in the presidency of Sabakami. The idea of this council was to settle a dispute on Vinaya Pitaka, the code of discipline. Third Buddhist Council (250 BC): Held in Patliputra under the patronage of Ashoka and under the presidency of Moggaliputta Tissa. Abhidhamma Pitaka was established in this council. It also tried to settle the dispute with Vinaya Pitaka. 11 Bihar Special Revision Booklet Visit us: pw.live | Contact us: 70192 43492 Fourth Buddhist Council (78 AD): Held in Kundalavana, Kashmir under Kushan ruler Kanishka. Asvaghosa participated in this council. Mahayana Buddhism came into existence during the fourth council. Tripitaka Vinaya Pitaka- related to the rules and regulations of monastic life. ○Compiled at the First Buddhist Council (483 BC) ○ Recited by Upali ○ Subject matter: Vinaya Pitaka consists mainly of rules governing the daily life of monks and nuns. This contains instructions on the organization of the Sangha and how to keep the sangha working harmoniously. Sutta Pitaka - collection of Sermons of Buddha. ○ Compiled at: First Buddhist Council (483 BC) ○ Sutta Pitaka was first orally rehearsed by Ananda (Buddha’s cousin). ○ Subject matter: Sutta Pitaka contains the core teachings of Buddhism. Abhidhamma Pitaka - philosophical interpretation of Buddhist doctrine. ○ Subject matter: It is a higher and advanced formulation of Buddhist teachings. ○ Abhidhamma Pitaka deals with philosophy and metaphysics ○ It consists of seven books: Dhammasangani, Vibhanga, Dhatukatha, Puggalapannatti, Kathavatthu, Yamaka, and Patthana. Jainism Tirthankars Jains trace their history through 24 Tirthankars. Rishabhdeva was the first Tirthankar and Parshvanatha was the 23rd Tirthankar, while Mahavira was the 24th and the last one. Mahavira Mahavira was born in 540 BC in Kundalgram near Vaishali. He belonged to the Jnantrika Kshatriya clan. Vardhamana Mahavira left home at an age of 30 years and attained Kaivalya at the age of 42. He was called ‘Nirgranthas’. Through Kaivalya, he conquered misery and happiness and came to be known as Jina or Mahavira. He gave his first sermon in Vipul Giri (Rajgir). His first disciple was Jamali. Mahavira attained Nirvana in 468 BC in Pavapuri near Rajgriha (Rajgir). Tri-Ratna The three gems or ratna to attain Moksha are right faith, right conduct and right knowledge. Councils First council was held at Pataliputra by Sthulabhadra in the beginning of the 3rd century BC, Where Jainism was divided into two sects, Svetambaras and Digambaras. Second council was held at Vallabhi in the 5th century AD under the leadership of Devardhi Gani Kshmasramana which resulted in the final compilation of 12 Angas and 12 Upangas. CHAPTER 3: Bihar during Pre-Mauryan Period Magadha was one of sixteen Mahajanapadas expanded in present day Patna, Gaya and regions of Southern Bihar. It emerged as the first strongest empire of ancient India. This region was ruled by many small dynasties, which were termed as ‘Pre- Mauryan dynasties’. 12 Bihar Special Revision Booklet Visit us: pw.live | Contact us: 70192 43492 The Rise of the Magadha Empire Brihadratha Dynasty This dynasty was founded in the middle of 6th Century BC. Brihadratha was the earliest known king of Magadha and the founder of Brihadratha dynasty. His name has been mentioned in Rigveda. According to Mahabharata and Puranas, Brihadratha was the eldest son of Vasu, the Kuru king of Chedi. According to Ramayana, Vasu founded Vasumati or Girivraja. The most famous king of this dynasty was Jarasandha, son of Brihadratha. He defeated rulers of several contemporary states, e.g. Kashi, Malwa, Agra, Banga, Kalinga etc. According to Mahabharatha, Jarasandha was killed by Bhima. Capital: Girivraja (Rajgir) Jarasandha was succeeded by Sahadev. Ripunjaya was the last ruler of this dynasty. According to Puranas, the Pradyota dynasty succeeded the Brihadratha dynasty in Magadha. Haryanka Dynasty Bimbisara (544 - 492 BC) He founded the Haryanka dynasty and established his capital at Rajgir (Girivraja). He was a contemporary of Buddha and according to the Buddhist text, ‘the Mahavamsa’ Bimbisara was appointed as the king by his father named Bhatiya at the age of 15. He is referred to as Shrenik in Jain texts. He expanded the boundaries of his kingdom through matrimonial alliances and conquest. His policy of marriage alliance for strengthening his empire was very successful. His first wife Kosala Devi was a Kosala princess, sister of Prasenjit. The land of Kosala fell to Magadha in this way. Bimbisara got the hold of Kashi as a dowry gift. His second wife Chellana was a Licchavi princess and third wife Kshema was a princess of Madra clan of Punjab. The Kingdom of Anga was conquered by him. Magadha’s most serious rival was Avanti with its capital at Ujjain. Its King Chanda Pradyota Mahasena fought against Bimbisara. But ultimately, the two became friends and Bimbisara sent royal physician Jivaka to Ujjain, to treat Chanda Pradyota. Bimbisara was also the first ruler in history to form permanent forces/army. Ajatashatru (492-460 BC) He imprisoned and killed his father, Bimbisara to become the next ruler. He defeated the Kosala king and enlarged his kingdom by conquering Kashi and Vaishali. It was during his reign that Mahatma Buddha (487 BC) attained ‘Mahaparinirvana’ at Kushinagar and Lord Mahavira (468 BC) attained Nirvana or Moksha in Pavapuri. Ajatashatru had great respect for both Gautama Buddha and Mahavira. It was during his reign that the first Buddhist council was held in the Saptaparni caves at Rajagriha shortly after Buddha’s death. He ruled for around 32 years and was killed by his own son Udayin (460-440 BC). Udayin (460-444 BC) He founded the city of Patliputra in 455 BC at the confluence of the Ganga and Sone rivers and made it his capital. 13 Bihar Special Revision Booklet Visit us: pw.live | Contact us: 70192 43492 His successors were weak rulers like Anuruddha, Munda and Nagadasaka. A civil revolt led to the emergence of the Shishunaga dynasty in Magadha. Shishunaga Dynasty Shishunaga During this time, Magadha had two capitals, one at Rajgir and another at Vaishali. Shishunaga ended the hundred year old rivalry between Magadha and Avanti. Shishunaga died in 394 BC and was succeeded by his son Kalashoka. The second Buddhist Council (383 BC) was organised under his patronage in Vaishali. Kalashoka He shifted his capital to Patliputra after the second Buddhist Council. After Kalashoka, his ten sons ruled the Magadha empire according to ‘The Mahavamsa’ and the last ruler was Nandivardhan (Mahanandin). Nanda Dynasty Mahapadma Nanda He established the Nanda dynasty (344-321 BC) after killing the last Shishunaga ruler Mahanandin (Nandivardhan). Mahapadmananda has been described in the Puranas as Mahapadma or Mahapadma Pati. He assumed the title ‘Ekarat’. He was also referred as Ugrasena in Maha Bodhi Vamsa. The Maha Bodhi Vamsa also lists down nine Nanda kings namely Mahapadma Nanda (Ugrasen), Panduka, Pandugati, Bhutapala, Rashtrapala, Govishanaka, Dashasiddhaka, Kaivarta and Dhana Nanda. Dhana Nanda He was the last ruler of the Nanda dynasty and was a contemporary of Alexander. When Alexander invaded India (327-326 BCE), Dhana Nanda was the ruler of Magadha. Greeks referred to Dhana Nanda as Agrammes or Xandrames. CHAPTER 4: Mauryan Period The Mauryan empire was geographically the first extensive, powerful and a political military empire in ancient India. The empire had its capital at Pataliputra. Mauryan Empire Chandragupta The Mauryan dynasty was founded by Chandragupta Maurya (321-298 BC) with the help of his mentor Chanakya Maurya or Kautilya, by dethroning the last Nanda ruler, Dhana Nanda in 321 BC. According to Matsya Purana and Mudrarakshasa, the mother of Chandragupta Maurya was Mura, a Shudra woman in the court of Nandas. In Mudrarakshasa, he has been referred as ‘Vrishala’. As per Buddhist tradition, he belonged to the Moriya Kshatriya clan. 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’. 14 Bihar Special Revision Booklet Visit us: pw.live | Contact us: 70192 43492 Acharya Chanakya was the political advisor of Chandragupta Maurya who guided him. He is the writer of ‘‘Arthashastra’’. According to Jain sources (Parishishta Parvan) Chandragupta embraced Jainism towards the end of his life and stepped down from the throne for his son Bindusara. He went to Shravanabelagola with the Jain monks and starved himself to death. Bindusara The empire stretched to the North along the natural boundaries of the Himalayas and to the East stretching into Assam. To the West, it reached beyond Pakistan, annexing Balochistan and much of Afghanistan. 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. Syrian King Antiochus sent Deimachus as his Ambassador in the court of Bindusara. Ptolemy II Philadelphus of Egypt had sent Dionysius to the court of Bindusara. He supported the Ajivikas. Ashoka Ashoka, the great (273-232 BC) succeeded the throne from his father Bindusara in 273 BC. According to Dipavamsa and Mahavamsa, he had killed 99 of his brothers, sparing only one, named Vitashoka or Tissa, to become Mauryan king. Ashoka’s empire extended in the South to the Cholas and Pandyas and in the North to Kashmir and Nepal in the North-East. Ashoka fought the Kalinga war in 261 BC. It is mentioned in his major rock edict XIII. The Hathigumpha inscription found in Odisha mentioned about this devastating war that changed the mind of Ashoka. After the Kalinga war, Ashoka embraced Buddhism under the influence of Buddhist monk Upagupta and began to be known as DhammAshoka. Ashoka is also mentioned as Devanampriya and Priyadarshee in many inscriptions. He is mentioned as King of Magadha in Bhabru inscription. Ashoka convened the third Buddhist Council in 250 BC at Patliputra with Moggaliputta Tissa as the President. With this, Buddhist ideals spread in Sri Lanka, South-East Asia, West Asia and Mediterranean Europe. After Ashoka’s death, the Mauryan empire began to decline. The Arthashastra, the edicts of Ashoka and Ashokavardhana are primary sources of written records of the Mauryan times. Ashoka had built 84,000 stupas. He had built many stone pillars and inscriptions. Three pillar inscriptions of Ashoka are situated in Bihar i.e. Lauriya Areraj, in East Champaran district and Lauriya Nandangarh and Rampurwa pillar inscriptions in West Champaran district. Mauryan Administration The empire was divided into four provinces each ruled by a Governor. Chanakya propounded the Saptanga Theory according to which the kingdom was divided into 7 elements which were Svamin (king), Amatya (ministers), Janapada (people), Durg (fort), Kosa (treasury), Bala (army) and Mitra (ally). 18 Tirthas or Mahamatyas were appointed such as ministers, head priest, commander-in-chief and crown prince who were paid in silver coins. Military organisation was under the control of Senapati under whom there were several officials of different wings doing their duties. 15 Bihar Special Revision Booklet Visit us: pw.live | Contact us: 70192 43492 There were two kinds of courts, Dharmasthiyas (Civil courts) and Kantaka Shodhana (Criminal courts). Rajjukas were the officers who were responsible for the land measurement and fixing the boundaries and they were the people who controlled the districts. Gopas were the officers incharge of villages and village Sarpanch was known as Gramani. The Mauryan economy was managed by 27 superintendents called Adhyakshas. The currency consisted of silver coins (Panas), copper coins (Mashaka) and gold coins (Niskha). Megasthenes refers to the presence of seven castes in the Mauryan society i.e. philosophers, farmers, soldiers, herdsmen, artisans, magistrates and councillors. The Viceroys of Tosali and Ujjaini were called as Kumaras as per Kalinga rock edicts and Viceroy of Suvarnagiri were known as Aryaputra. Art and Architecture Mauryan palace with a pillared hall was found at Kumhrar (Patna). The pillars made at the time of Ashoka furnish the finest specimen of the Mauryan art. These are made of two types of stones, the spotted red and white sand stone and the buff coloured fine grained hard gray sandstone. The pillars are found in Delhi, Allahabad, Rummindei, Sanchi and Sarnath. Two statues of Yaksha and a statue of Chauri (fly-whisk) bearer of Yakshini are found in Didarganj (Bihar). Ashoka built a number of stupas throughout his empire but majority of them were destroyed during the foreign invasions. The rock cut caves were residences for monks and also served as assembly halls (Chaitya). Ashoka and his grandson Dasharatha built such caves in Barabar and Nagarjuni hills near Bodh Gaya. The internal walls of the caves were polished so nicely that they looked like mirrors. Lomas Rishi caves, Sudama caves were built in the Barabar hills. These caves were dedicated by Ashoka and Dasaratha to the Ajivikas. The Mauryan Society Megasthenese divided the Mauryas Society into seven castes: Philospher, farmers, soldiers, herdsman, artisan, magistrate and councilors. They mentioned that there was no existence of slavery but it is contradicted by other Indian sources. Kautilya recommended the recruitment of vaishayas and shudras in the army but their actual enrolment is extremely doubtful. He refers the existence of four castes. The position of shudra improved somewhat for hitherto agricultural labourers and domestic slaves. They could own their land. The fall of Mauryan Empire After the death of Ashoka, the empire was divided into two parts i.e Western and Eastern parts. ○ Western part was ruled by Ashoka’s son Kunala and the Eastern part by Dasaratha, Ashoka’s grandson. 16 Bihar Special Revision Booklet Visit us: pw.live | Contact us: 70192 43492 Due to the Bactrian invasion, the Western part of the empire collapsed, but the Eastern part remained intact under Samprati, Ashoka’s another grandson who was a patron of Jainism. Brihadratha was the last ruler of the Mauryan empire who was assassinated by Pushyamitra Shunga. CHAPTER 5: Post-Mauryan Period in Bihar The disintegration of the Mauryan empire led to the rise of many regional kingdoms in different parts of the country. At the same time, we witness invasions by various groups of people based in Central Asia and western China. These were Indo-Greeks, the Scythians or the Shakas, the Parthians or the Pahlavas and the Kushanas. It was through such political processes that India came in closer contact with central Asian politics and culture. Post- Mauryan Dynasties in Bihar Shunga Dynasty The Shunga dynasty (184-72 BC) was founded by Pushyamitra Shunga in 185 BC by killing the last Mauryan ruler Brihadratha. Pushyamitra ruled over Magadha, Kosala, Sakala, Malwa and Berar. Pushyamitra Shunga was Commander-in-Chief of the Mauryan armed forces’. Pushyamitra was a staunch follower of Brahmanism. Divyavadana and Taranath depict Pushyamitra as an enemy of the Buddhists, but there is enough evidence to prove that Pushyamitra atronized Buddhist art. Buddhist monuments at Bharhut and Sanchi were renovated during his period. Two Ashwamedha Yajna were held in his reign which are supported by Ayodhya inscriptions of Dhandev. Patanjali, the great Sanskrit scholar and author of Mahabhashya was the main priest of these Yajna. Buddhist records such as the Ashoka Vardhana mentions that the assassination of Brihadratha and the rise of the Shunga empire led to a wave of persecution of Buddhists and a resurgence of Hinduism. Brahmanical social ideals and institutions saw an increase and Buddhism gradually declined. After the death of Pushyamitra in 148 BC, his son Agnimitra ascended the throne. He was the hero of Kalidasa’s drama Malavikagnimitram. According to the Puranas, Devbhuti was the 10th and last ruler of the Shunga dynasty. Kanva Dynasty The Kanva dynasty (72-27 BC) replaced the Shunga dynasty in Magadha. The last ruler of the Shunga dynasty, Devabhuti, was overthrown by Vasudeva in 72 BC. Susharman was the last ruler of this dynasty. Kanva rule came to an end after 45 years as a result of the rise to power of rulers of Satavahana dynasty from the Deccan plateau region. Kushana Dynasty Remains of the Kushan era have been discovered from the Magadha region. They started their campaign into this region in around the 1st century AD. There is evidence of Kushana ruler Kanishka (78-125AD) attacking Patliputra, as it was the capital of Magadha. He took along with him the famous Buddhist monk Asvaghosa. After the decline of the Kushan empire, this region was ruled by Licchavis. Many coins of Kushana dynasty are found from Chirand, Buxar, Bodh Gaya, Vaishali and Kumrahar. 17 Bihar Special Revision Booklet Visit us: pw.live | Contact us: 70192 43492 CHAPTER 6: The Gupta Empire Guptas succeeded in bringing major parts of India under a unified administration. The difference between Gupta empire and Mauryan empire’s administration was that in the Mauryan administration, power was centralised but in the Gupta administration, power was more decentralised. The Gupta empire was divided into provinces and the provinces were further divided into districts. Villages were the smallest units. Srigupta was the first king of the Gupta empire. He established the empire in 275 AD. Probably he ruled over a small portion of North Bengal and South Bihar. Ghatotkacha succeeded his father Srigupta. These two kings together ruled around the region of Magadha. They were subordinate to the later Kushanas. The Gupta Empire and its Rulers Chandra Gupta I Chandragupta I was the son of Ghatotkacha. He was the first independent ruler of the Gupta empire. He was the first king with the title of Maharajadhiraj and started the Gupta era in 319-320 AD. His empire included upper Gangetic Valley, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh and Bengal. Chandragupta I was married to a Licchavi princess Kumardevi. He issued gold coins to commemorate this event. He extended his dominion along the Ganga valley as far as Prayag and Awadh land. Samudra Gupta He succeeded Chandragupta I. Prayag inscription, written by Harisena mentions Samudragupta. It was written in Brahmi script and Sanskrit language. Samudragupta was given the title of Napoleon of India for his conquest by Vincent Arthur Smith. The Mathura stone inscription of Chandragupta II describes Samudragupta as an ‘exterminator of all kings. Samudragupta called himself Lichchavi-dauhitra. During his period, Ceylon ruler Meghavarman was given permission to build a monastery at Bodh Gaya for Sri Lankan Buddhist pilgrims. He was also a great patron of art and adopted the title of ‘Kaviraja’. Sanskrit was his court language. Harisena and Vasubandhu adorned his court. On some gold coins, he is shown playing Veena, which shows Samudragupta was also interested in music. He was a firm believer in Hinduism and is known to have worshiped Lord Vishnu. He attacked the kingdoms of Padmavati, Malwa, the Yaudheyas, the Arjunayanas, the Maduras and the Abhiras and merged them in his kingdom. His rule extended from the Himalayas to the Narmada River and from Brahmaputra to the Yamuna. He defeated Shaka and Kushan in Western part. Chandra Gupta II Chandragupta II defeated and killed his brother, Ramagupta to get the kingdom. Vikramaditya He married his widow Dhruvadevi. He established friendly relations and matrimonial alliances for extending his empire. He married Kubernaga, a Naga princess of central India and daughter from her, Prabhavati Gupta was married to Vakataka King Rudrasena II. He conquered Mathura from Kushanas, Gujarat from Shakas and established friendly relations with Kadamba rulers. 18 Bihar Special Revision Booklet Visit us: pw.live | Contact us: 70192 43492 He is known for promoting literature. Patliputra and Ujjaini emerged as learning centres during his reign. Nine ratnas in his court were poet Kalidasa, Vetalbhatta, Varahmihira, physician Dhanvantari, Varruchi, Shanku, Amarsimha, Kshapanaka and Ghatakarpara. Fa-Hien, the Chinese traveller, visited India during the reign of Chandragupta II to study Buddhism and stayed at Patliputra. He was the first among the Gupta Kings to issue the gold coins. He was called ‘Vikramaditya’ and took the title of Simhavikrama. He made Ujjain the second capital of his empire. Kumar Gupta I Chandragupta II was succeeded by Kumargupta I (415-455 AD) also known as ‘Mahendraditya’. He introduced a new type of gold coin. First Huna attack took place during his time and he was very old at that time. He established Nalanda University. ○ Nalanda University was a centre of learning from 427 to 1197 AD. ○ Famous traveller, Hiuen Tsang studied at this university. ○ The university was later destroyed by an army of the Mamluk dynasty under Bakhtiyar Khalji in 1197 AD. Skanda Gupta According to Bhitari inscriptions Skandagupta defeated ‘Pushyamitras’, who were tribes and probably ruled an area located near the bank of Narmada River. He also repulsed a Huna attack in 455 AD and died in 467 AD. An inscription at Junagarh says that his Governor got restoration work done on a dam in Sudarshana Lake originally constructed by Chandra Gupta Maurya. After Skandagupta, the Gupta empire began to disintegrate under various rulers like Purugupta, Buddha Gupta, Narasimhagupta, Bhanugupta etc. Vishnugupta was the last ruler of the Gupta dynasty. The Gupta Empire began to disintegrate and smaller kingdoms emerged in Magadha like the Maukharis. MEDIEVAL HISTORY OF BIHAR CHAPTER 1: Sources of Medieval History in Bihar Archaeological Sources Coins Some coins of Alauddin Khilji were found at Jayanagar in Lakhisarai district. Two copper coins bearing the name of Bajirao Shinde confirm the strong presence of Maratha in this region. Arabic inscription of 1326 AD found on the wall of Jama Mosque in Darbhanga, mentions that Darbhanga became a mint town too with the title of "Iqlim Tughlaqpur urf Tirhut ''. This inscription is related to Muhammad-bin-Tughlaq. Akbar constructed Taksals in Patna, Azimabad and Rajmahal where coins were made after 1580 AD. Inscriptions Inscriptions of medieval Bihar can be classified into two categories i.e. Arabic & Persian and Non-Persian. Arabic and Persian inscriptions ○ Found on the walls of mosques, tombs, imambaras, etc. 19 Bihar Special Revision Booklet Visit us: pw.live | Contact us: 70192 43492 These inscriptions are mostly found in Patna, Bihar Sharif, Sasaram and Rajmahal. ○ ○ An inscription of Sher Shah found at his tomb dated 1545 AD ○ Bedibun inscription of Muhammad-ibn-Yussaf Which throws light on the expansion of Muslim rule in Bihar. Non-Persian inscriptions ○ Provides information about the small kingdoms which emerged after the fall of Pala dynasty. ○ Sanokhar inscription of Ballal Sena, ○ Maner copper plate inscription of Gahadavalas, ○ Simraon pillar inscriptions ○ Andhrathadi inscriptions and ○ Pratap Malla inscriptions of Karnatas. Monuments Monuments give us information about the social, religious, economic conditions of the state under the particular ruler. 70 monuments of national importance have been recognised by ASI in Bihar. Famous Monument Sites in Bihar Sites Places District Queen’s Palace, Tomb of Ibrahim Bayu Bihar Sharif, Nalanda Tomb of Shah Makhadun, Daulat Maneri and Ibrahim Khan Maner, Patna Tomb of Hasan Shah Suri Sasaram, Rohtas Tomb of Sher Shah Suri Sasaram, Rohtas Rohtasgarh Fort Rohtas Tomb of Bakhtiyar Khan Malik Sarai, Kaimur Three Rock Inscription Sasaram, Rohtas Literary Sources 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. 20 Bihar Special Revision Booklet Visit us: pw.live | Contact us: 70192 43492 Some important works in local languages are: ○ Kirtilata, Kritpataka of Vidhyapati, ○ Varnaratnakar of Jyotirishwar, ○ Rajnitiratnakar of Chandreshwar Vachaspati, etc. ○ Sufi literature- Tajkira, Maktubat and Malkujat CHAPTER 2: Early Medieval Period in Bihar Dynasties of Early Medieval Period in Bihar Pala The Palas were followers of the Mahayana and Tantric schools of Buddhism. The Pala kings also patronised Hinduism. They gave donations for construction of temples and for educational purposes like setting gurukuls. The Pala kings had close trade relations with South-East Asia and China. Gopala Gopala (AD 750-770) was the first ruler and the founder of Pala dynasty. Gopal ascended the throne as the first King of the Pala dynasty to avoid the situation of ‘matsya-nyaya’. The Khalimpur copper plate inscription, 750 AD, suggests that the people of this region chose him the king. It was one of the first democratic elections in South Asia since the time of Mahajanapadas. He consolidated his position by extending his control over all of Bengal as well as parts of Bihar. In Odantapuri (now Bihar Sharif), a Buddhist Monastery and a University was established by Gopala. Dharmapala After Gopala, his son Dharmapala (AD 770-810) succeeded to the throne in 770 AD. The empire reached its peak under Dharmapala and Devapala. Dharmapala extended the empire in the Northern parts of the Indian subcontinent. After capturing Kannauj, he gained the title of Uttarapatha Swami and organised a grand Darbar in Kannauj. Dharmapala was a Buddhist. He established Vikramshila University. He also gave 200 villages for the maintenance of Nalanda University. Devapala Devapala (AD 810-850), successor of Dharmapala, extended the empire to South Asia and beyond. He made Munger as his capital. According to the Pala copper plate inscription, Devapala conquered the Utkalas and the Pragjyotisha (Assam). The inscriptions of Devapala have been found in Ghorawan, Hilsa, Nalanda and Munger. Balaputradeva, ruler of Suvarnabhumi, founded a Buddhist monastery at Nalanda during his time. Mahipala I In 988 AD, Mahipala succeeded to the throne. He was also known as the second founder of the Pala dynasty. Bihar and Bengal were invaded by the South Indian Emperor Rajendra Chola I of the Chola dynasty in the 11th century during the reign of Mahipala I. In 1023 AD, Mahipala fought with Rajendra Chola of Chola Dynasty in which he was defeated. Mahipala I died in the same year along with which the Pala dynasty came to an end. Sena The Sena Dynasty was founded by Sumantsena in the mid-11th century. He was succeeded by Vijayasena. After Vijayasena, his son Ballalsena became the king. He was a great scholar, wrote Danasagar and Advutsagar. He started a social movement named ‘Kulinism’ by which the nobility of birth and purity of blood were carefully protected. 21 Bihar Special Revision Booklet Visit us: pw.live | Contact us: 70192 43492 The Sena dynasty was weakened due to internal rebellions and invasion of Bakhtiyar Khalji. Lakshamansena was the last important ruler of this dynasty. He fled from his capital and took refuge in East Bengal’s Vikrampur. Personalities like Jayadev, the author of Gita Govinda; the linguist Halayudha, Dhoyi, the author of Pavanadutam adorned his court. Karnat Karnata Dynasty (AD 1097-1324) was founded by Nanyadeva in Mithila. He was a great patron of music. He analyzed different ragas and wrote a treatise on music. Simraon in Champaran was the capital of Karnata dynasty. Later Kamladityya Sthan (Kamlathan) became their capital which is now known as Andhrathadi in Madhubani district. Other rulers of this dynasty were Ganga Singh Deva, Narsingh Dev and Harisimhadeva. Ganga Singh Deva was an able administrator and the son of Nanyadeva. Narsingh Deva had the possession of Tirhut and Darbhanga areas. Harisimhadeva was the last ruler of the Karnata dynasty. He was a great patron of art and literature. In his court Jyotirishwar, the author of ‘Varna Ratnakar’ was the royal priest. The period of Karnata rulers is also known as the Golden period of Mithila. Panji Vyavastha and Panji Prabandha were established by Harisimhadeva. Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq attacked Mithila, Harisimhadeva fled to Nepal. Karnata Dynasty was taken over by the Oiniwar dynasty. Oiniwar dynasty ruled North Bihar (Mithila) between 1353 to 1526 AD. Maukhari The Maukharies of Gaya were the feudatories under the Gupta rulers. Dynasty They started becoming stronger during Gupta's decline and established a powerful kingdom in 550 CE. In the 3rd century they were spread over Kannauj (UP) and Badwa region of Rajasthan. Harivarman was the first Maukhari ruler of Kannauj, who was throned in 510 CE. Adityavarman was the son of Harivarman, who was married to the Post Gupta Magadh's princess HarshaGupta. Kumargupta (Gupta king) snatched Magadh from the Maukhari ruler Ishanvarman (558-565 CE). Sarvavarman, the most powerful ruler of Maukhari kingdom, recaptured Magadh. CHAPTER 3: MEDIEVAL BIHAR [11th-16th century] Turkish Invasion in Bihar Bihar was attacked by Bakhtiyar Khalji who destroyed a lot of Buddhist monasteries including Nalanda University and killed many innocent people. Turkish invasions led to the rule of Delhi sultanate and Bihar was either included under rulers ruling from Delhi or made into a separate province. Bakhtiyar Khalji He was one of the Generals of Qutb ud-Din Aibak. He destroyed monasteries fortified by the Sena armies, during which many of the Viharas and the famous universities of Nalanda, Odantpuri and Vikramshila were destroyed. He was the first muslim conqueror of Bihar. Bakhtiyar Khalji founded the city of Bakhtiyarpur in 1198 AD. 22 Bihar Special Revision Booklet Visit us: pw.live | Contact us: 70192 43492 Bakhtiyar Khalji also invaded Mithila's Karnata King Narsingh Deva’s territory. Bengal and Assam region was also invaded by him. He was assassinated by Ali Mardan and his mausoleum is in Bihar Sharif. Sadruddin Hasan Nizami wrote about Khilji’s invasion in 1192-1228 AD in ‘Taj-ul-Maasir’. Bihar during Slave Dynasty After Ali Mardan, Hasmuddin Iwaz Khilji established independent rule in Lakhnauti. He was able to get taxes from Tirhut rulers. Iltutmish, the slave of Qutb-ud-din-Aibak invaded Bihar Sharif and Barh and later on moved to Lakhnauti. The Iwaz army fought near Rajmahal hills but had to surrender. Iltutmish made Malik Allauddin Jani as his representative (Subedar) but Iwaz later on forced him to flee. Iltutmish’s son Nasiruddin Mahmud in return attacked Iwaz and killed him. He included Bihar, Awadh and Lakhnauti in his fold and ruled it till 1229 AD. After Nasiruddin’s death, Malik Ikhtiyar ud-din-Balka (Balkh Khilji) had revolted, so Iltutmish after defeating Balkh separated Bihar from Bengal. Iltutmish appointed Saifuddin Aibak as the Governor of Bihar and later Tughan Khan became the Governor of Bihar. After Iltutmish’s death in 1236 AD, the control of Delhi loosened on Bihar. Balban defeated and killed Tughril Khan, the Lakhnauti ruler and made Bughra Khan as its ruler. Maner, Bihar Sharif, Bhojpur, Gaya, Patna, Munger, Bhagalpur, Santhal Pargana, Nalanda, Lakhisarai and Vikramshila were under slave dynasty. In Tirhut area, Karnata rulers were independent although they gave taxes to Delhi. Dynasties Ruled in Medieval Bihar Slave Dynasty Khilji Rule In 1296 AD, Alauddin Khilji demanded half of the crops on land after measurement as revenue. Sheikh Mohammad Ismail was sent to Darbhanga by Alauddin Khilji but Raja Sakra Singh defeated him. In 1301 AD, Shamsuddin Firozshah declared himself ruler of Bengal and declared his son Firozshah as Governor of Bihar between 1309 to 1315. Later, Hatim Khan who was the son of Firozshah was made governor of Bihar between 1315- 1321 AD. Some coins of Khilji dynasty have been found from Bhojpur and Lakhisarai. Tughlaq Rule Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq invaded Bengal and Bihar in 1324 AD. Lakhnauti king Nasiruddin had surrendered while Sonargaon King Ghiyasuddin Bahadur had revolted against the Sultan's army. Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq defeated him. He also defeated Mithila King Harisimhadeva (Karnata dynasty). Tughlaq coins have been found from Tirhut. Darbhanga was called Tughlaqpur at the time of Muhammad bin Tughlaq. Malik Ibrahim was the most capable ruler of the Tughlaq Dynasty in Bihar. A fort and Jama Masjid was also built at that time here. However, revolt had also started even at the time of Muhammad bin Tughlaq. Firozshah Tughlaq’s Persian inscription has been found from Bihar Sharif which was the capital of Bihar at that time. From Patna and Gaya, some inscriptions and coins have been found. The tomb of Malik Ibrahim Baya (Malik Baya) is located in Bihar Sharif (on Pir Pahari hill). Sufi Literature Malfuzat (compilation of statements) written by Sufi Saint Sharfuddin Yahya Maneri and Manaqib Ul Asfiya written by Hazrat Makhdoom Shah Firdaus gave information about the rule of Tughlaq dynasty in Bihar. Chero Dynasty They established their powerful state in Bhojpur, Shahabad, Saran, Champaran, Muzaffarpur and Palamu districts. 23 Bihar Special Revision Booklet Visit us: pw.live | Contact us: 70192 43492 They ruled for 300 years. Jagdishpur fair started at this time by Fulchand. Between 1587 to 1607 AD, Kukumchand Jharap was the head of Cheros of Bhojpur. Ujjaini and Chero had fought an important battle in 1611 AD, which was won by Ujjainis. Medini Rai was the most famous ruler of Chero dynasty. Medini Rai’s territory extended to Gaya, Daudnagar and Arwal, Ramgarh. Medini Rai died at the end of 1634 AD. He was succeeded by his son Raja Pratap Rai. During his rule three Mughal invasions took place. Finally, Cheros were assimilated into the Mughal empire. Ujjaini Dynasty The Ujjaini is a Rajput clan that inhabits the state of Bihar. After settling in Bihar, they were known as Ujjainiya. The Ujjainiyas eventually became the rulers of the Bhojpur region in Bihar. Bhojpur was established by Devraj, son of Bhojraj after killing Sahasbal of Chero. Devraj was called Santan Singh in Bhojpur. Several battles were fought between Ujjainiyas and Cheros. The Ujjainiya ruler ‘Gajpat’ made an alliance with Sher Shah Suri and defeated the Bengal Sultanate together. Ujjainiyas were powerful in Buxar, Jagdishpur and Dumraon. Noohani Dynasty The Noohani Dynasty emerged as a result of political changes at the time of Sikandar Lodhi. As Sikandar Lodhi rose to power, the Governor of Jaunpur fled to Bihar. Zamindars of Tirhut and Saran were against central rule. All this led Sikandar Lodhi to invade Bihar. Sikandar Lodi defeated Hussain Shah Sharqi and appointed Dariya Khan Noohani as an administrator of Bihar, who remained an administrator of Bihar till his death in 1523. His son Bahar Khan Noohani became the administrator after his father’s death. Bahar Khan Noohani succeeded to the throne in 1523 AD. He declared himself independent and took the title of Sultan Mohammad. Ibrahim Lodhi invaded him. Initially, the Delhi army won but later on it got defeated. This defeat led to the extension of the Mohammad empire from Bihar to Kannauj. Sultan Mohammad, after being defeated by Babur in the Battle of Ghaghra held in 1529, had accepted Babur’s authority. After the death of Sultan Mohammad, his son Jalal Khan succeeded to the throne. Sher Shah Suri was appointed as his advisor and protector. After the fall of Noohani rulers, Sher Shah emerged as the powerful Afghan ruler. Shershah Suri Sher Shah Suri was an Afghan and his real name was Farid Khan. Afghan ruler Sultan Muhammad gave him the title Sher Khan. He established the Suri Empire with its capital in Sasaram, Bihar. In 1534, Sher Shah and Mahmud Shah fought in the Battle of Surajgarh which was won by Sher Shah. In 1539, Humayun and Sher Shah fought in the Battle of Chausa. He again defeated Humayun at Kannauj in 1540 and forced him to move out of India. 24 Bihar Special Revision Booklet Visit us: pw.live | Contact us: 70192 43492 He took the title of Sher Shah Sultan-e-Adil after this victory. Sher Shah made Patna as the capital of Bihar province in 1541 AD. Sher Shah introduced silver coins. Many land and revenue reforms and extension of Grand Trunk Road from Chittagong to Kabul. Sher Shah was on the throne for only five years (1540-1545). He expanded his empire which included Punjab, Malwa, Sind, Multan and Bundelkhand. His empire expanded throughout the whole of North India except Assam, Nepal, Kashmir and Gujarat. On 13th May, 1545, Sher Shah was killed during the siege of Kalinjar fort. The tomb of Sher Shah is situated in Sasaram. Sher Shah’s Administration Level of Administration Department Pradhan Diwane Wajarat Revenue and finance, which was headed by wajir Central Administration Diwan-i-Arz Secretariat, head was Dabir Diwan-i-Insha add the department of correspondence. Diwan-i-Risalat add the department of religious affairs Diwane Kaja Law Department, head by Kazi Local Administration Sarkar Shikdare-Shikdarn was held of law & administration. Munsife-Munsifan was head as village head Pargana Village Patwari and Kanungo for revenue collection Downfall After the downfall of the Sur dynasty, the region of Bihar was ruled by Taj Khan Karrani. He made Bihar Sharif as his capital. Sulaiman Karrani (1565-1572) and Daud khan karrani were important rulers of this dynasty. Sulaiman Karrani accepted the suzerainty of the Mughal emperor Akbar but his son Daud revolted against Akbar. Akbar came to Hajipur and captured the fort of Hajipur, he defeated Daud in the battle of Rajmahal in 1576 AD after which Mughal rule was firmly established in Bihar. Bihar during Mughal Dynasty The Mughals annexed Bihar and turned it into one of their Subas with its seat at Patna. The struggle to annex Bihar by the Mughals started with the Battle of Ghaghra was fought between Sultan Mahmud Lodi (Afghan) and Babur (Founder of Mughal Empire in India) in 1529. The Noohani Dynasty came to an end in 1532 AD when Mughal emperor Humayun defeated Afghans in Doha Sarai. He attacked the Chunar Fort in 1531 AD. 25 Bihar Special Revision Booklet Visit us: pw.live | Contact us: 70192 43492 Mughal Dynasty in Bihar Akbar In 1574, the Mughals seized Patna from Daud Khan, who was the son of Sulaiman Khan, an Afghan chief. After the Battle of Tukaroi in 1575, Daud Khan was captured and executed. Akbar made Bihar a separate subah of his empire in 1576. Munim Khan was made Governor of Bihar. On 17th March, 1587, Raja Man Singh was appointed Subedar of Bihar. He defeated Bhojpur, Giddhaur and Kharagpur and made Rohtas as his capital. He renovated the fortification in Rohtasgarh Fort in Sasaram. In 1577 AD, Akbar made Mahesh Thakur as the administrator of Mithila. Mahesh Thakur made Rajnagar of Madhubani as his capital. Asif Khan was the last Governor of Bihar during the reign of Akbar. Jahangir Jahangir replaced Asif Khan with Lala Beg, known as Beg Bahadur as the Governor of Bihar. In 1621, Jahangir declared his son Parvez as the Governor of Bihar. He was the first Mughal Prince to become Governor of Bihar. Shahzada Khurram (Shah Jahan) revolted against Jahangir and captured Patna, Rohtas, etc from Parvez. But later Shah Jahan was defeated and driven out of Bihar. Baz Bahadur (Jahangir Quli Khan) was made the Subedar of Bihar. He took immediate action and the rebels were completely defeated. Mirza Rustam Safri was the last Governor of Bihar during Jahangir’s reign. Shahjahan Khan-i-Alam was appointed as the Governor of Bihar during the reign of Shah Jahan. He was replaced by Mirza Safi also known as Saif Khan. Saif Khan built Shahi Idgah in Patna. He was succeeded by Abdullah Khan in 1632 AD who suppressed a revolt of the Ujjainia chief Raja Pratap. The next Governor of Bihar was Shaista Khan (1639 AD-1643 AD). In 1651 AD, Jafar Khan was appointed as Governor. He built Bagh-i-Jafar Khan at Patna and Dundi Bazar Mosque. Jafar Khan was succeeded by Zulfiqar Khan and then Alivardi Khan. Aurangzeb The first Governor during the reign of Aurangzeb was Daud Khan Qureshi. Daud Khan founded the city of Daudnagar in the Gaya district. He defeated the Cheros of Palamu and extended the empire to Chota Nagpur. Daud Khan was succeeded by Jan Nisar Khan also known as Lashkar Khan. He was succeeded by Ibrahim Khan. His reign witnessed a severe famine in Patna. Aurangzeb sent Murshid Quli Khan to Bengal as the divan in 1700 AD. Aurangzeb had made his grandson Prince Azim who was known as Azimushan as Subedar of Bihar in 1702 AD. He rebuilt Patna and called it Azimabad in 1704 AD. Later Mughal Bahadur Shah I (Shah Alam I) made Prince Azimushan as the administrator of Bihar and Farrukhsiyar as the Nawab of Bengal. 26 Bihar Special Revision Booklet Visit us: pw.live | Contact us: 70192 43492 Murshid Quli Khan was appointed as the Nawab Nazim of Murshidabad by Farrukhsiyar. During his reign, he changed the jagirdari system (land management) to the mal jasmani, which would later transform into the zamindari system. After Azimushan, Mughal control weakened in Bihar. Farrukhsiyar was the first Mughal who was crowned in Patna in 1713. Muhammad Shah appointed Fakr-ud-daula as Governor of Bihar. He was the last Mughal Governor of Bihar and was dismissed in 1733 by the Nawab of Bengal. During the period of Subedar of Bihar, Fakra-ud-daula ‘Court of Justice’ was built at Patna. Bihar and the Nawabs of Bengal Murshid Quli Khan and his successor Nawabs (Shujauddin Khan, Sarfaraz Khan, Alivardi Khan, Siraj-ud-daula, Mir Qasim) administered Bengal, Bihar and Odisha as independent rulers though they continued to send revenue to the Mughal emperor regularly. The Nawabs of Bengal allowed trade to flourish in this region. Some of the greatest melas of the Indian sub-continent, viz. Sonepur Mela, which is the biggest cattle fair in India, was allowed to continue and even flourish, inviting traders from far and near. The mid seventeenth century saw the arrival of the Marathas with Peshwa Balaji Baji Rao’s invasion in 1743 AD in Munger and Bhagalpur. Murshid Quli Khan Murshid Quli Khan was appointed as the Diwan of Bengal by Aurangzeb. (1717-1727 A.D.) He tried to save the interest of his province by preventing the collection of revenues by the English East India Company. He transferred the capital from Dacca to Murshidabad. Shujauddin Khan Shujauddin Khan, the son-in-law of Murshid Quli Khan succeeded the govt. and annexed Suba of Bihar to become a part of Bengal. Sarfaraz Khan was the son of Shuja. He took the title of Alam-ud—daula Haider Jung. Alivardi Khan Alivardi Khan was appointed as Naib Nazim or Deputy Nawab. He continued till the year 1756. This period saw many invasions of the Afghans as the Mughal rule weakened. Alivardi Khan suppressed the revolts and invasions in the battle of Patna and Ranisarai. Alivardi Khan legalized his usurpation by receiving a Farman from Emperor Muhammad after paying Rs. 2 crore. He favored and nominated Siraj-ud-daula who was the son of his youngest daughter as his successor. Siraj-ud-daula Siraj-ud-daula prohibited the English from fortifying their factories at Calcutta but on their refusal to comply with his orders that led to the Battle at Plassey with English forces. Mir Qasim Mir Qasim granted the Zamindari of Burdman, Midnapore and Chittagong to the British. He introduced several revenue and military reforms to strengthen his position. Mir Jafar Mir Jafar granted the right to free trade in Bengal, Bihar and Orissa and the Zamindar of 24 parganas to the British. He is also known as the Jackal of Clive. His reinstatement in 1763 by the British took place after the outbreak of the war with Mir Qasim. Najm-ud-daula Najm-ud-daula was the son of Mir Jafar and made Nawab who remained a puppet in the hands of the British during the period of ‘Dual System of Government’. 27 Bihar Special Revision Booklet Visit us: pw.live | Contact us: 70192 43492 Religion in Medieval Bihar Bihar had also been a hub for the development of Sufism as quite a few of Sufi saints who initiated brotherhood among Hindu and Muslims settled here around the Islamic period. The Sikh leader the tenth Shri Guru Govind Singh Ji Maharaj was born in Patna in 1660. The Takht Sri Har Mandir Ji Sahib built by Maharaja Ranjit Singh to commemorate his birth place is regarded as one of the five “Akal Takhts” by the Sikhs. Hinduism Hinduism was the main religion. Vishnupad temple in Gaya was an important religious place. It was built in 1783 AD by Ahilya Bai Holkar. Shaivites, a sect of Hindu religion, gained greater popularity. Mithilas were worshippers of Shakti (power). Sikhism Sikhism spread to Bihar in the later part of the Medieval period. Guru Nanak Dev visited Patna in 1509, stayed at Bhagat Jaitmal’s house near Gaighat, Patna in 1509 AD and later Guru Tegh Bahadur along with his family came in 1666 AD. The 10th and the last Guru of Sikhism, Guru Gobind Singh was

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