Ancient History
On the basis of the inscription on the coins and other historical proof , the history of Garhwal can be linked to third century pre Vikram Sambat . Before it Ved ( Sacred Scriptures ) , Ramayana , Mahabharata , Smriti , Puran ( Primeval ) and Jatak are important documents to tell the history . Where the place is referred to as Himwant State , Kedarkhand , Land Of God ( Devbhumi ) and Golden Land . It can be considered from seventh century pre vikram sambat to third century vikram sambat , based on the references made in these books regarding Uttarakhand . There is plenty of material connected with Uttarakhand in Mahabharata . The work of excavation of old site has not been done very widely in Uttarakhand . It is however finds mention in some of the work of Connigham and Furat . Unfortunately , idols in the old temple of Uttarakhand have either disappeared due to decay or has been submerged into the earth . Chinese traveler , Yuwanchang and some Muslim and British clergy have given interesting account in their travel documents . The old coins have also not recovered in Uttarakhand , in large quantity . In many coins so recovered has kahroti and brahmi script inscribed on these . The most detailed and authentic material in this regard is found in the archives which starts from the third century pre vikram sambat . During the British rule , Atkins has covered about it in his book ' Himalayan Districts ' , in detail in three volumes . Later the book ' Garhwal Ka Itihas ' ( The History Of Garhwal ) by Pandit Harikrishana Raturi , proved to be an important landmark .
Kinner – Kirat and Nag
Khas people from east central Asia ( Kashgar , Khotan ) had come to Himalaya in the second century pre A.D. . Almost at the same time , Aryan had also come to the plains of India . When these two tribes came to India , they had to fight the local local tribe Kurupachal . Which used to be living here from the beginning and were also known as Kinner and Kirat . It is difficult to establish interrelationship of Kinner , Kirat .But there was a time when the country of Kinner was spread from the watershed of Ganga to watershed of Satlaj and the Kirat country was spread from eastern watershed of Ganga to Nepal .
In the eighteenth century , tribes living in east of Kosi river were called Hurai , Limb , Yakha , Kirat . The main residents of Jorakha , Jumala , were from Magar and Gurung tribes , but are not included in Kirat tribe . But if we consider the roots as per anthropology , they were descendents of Kirat tribe only . On the western bank of Kali river at Askot , Raji ( Raji Kirati ) live who are the ascendants of Kirat tribe . In the Malani language of Kinner tribe and Raji Language of Kirat tribe , Sanskrit and Tibetan words are found in plenty . Besides a third language is also found on the base . ( Himalaya Parichah Bhag 1– Rahul Sanskretayan , Page – 42 . At the border of Garhwal , Kumoun and Kinner State with Tibet , the Bhotantik tribe does not have the appearance of Mongols , but in their language mixed or in pure form the words of Tibetan language are found . In the seventh and eighth century , Tibet has expanded its rule in Laddakh and Balistan , located in western Himalaya . It left a lasting impression on the language of this area and shape , figure that even now this place is known is small Tibet . Much before , Tibetan ( Bhot ) tribe , the area up to Gilgit and Karokoram was under control of Khash-Darad caste , which both were of the same dynasty .
Naag
Kinner , Kirat and Naag tribes were in fact different branches of tribes of Himalaya . The effect of Naag tribe is found on Garhwal , much more . We find the relationship with Garhwal of Naag tribe from Nagpur and Urgam Pattis ( Sub Sub Divisions ) . There is general opinion that there was habitation of the Naags in the watershed of Alaknanda river . In kedarkhand , in every village , we find a temple of , may be small , of Nagarja ( Serpent God ) , commonly called Mandela . Sheshnag ( Chief Serpent ) at Pandukeshwar , Bheekan Naag at village Kirat , Mangal Naag at Koltar village , Lodianaag of Autar , Naag Naath Pushkarnaath , Nagdev of Pauri , Suriyanaag of Taknaur , Nagraja of Tehri , Mahasar Naag of Thadikathur , and Hunnaag of Bhadura are famous . In Tehri , Lord Shri Krishna is worshiped as Naag Devta ( Serpent God ) .
' Gharayali ' ( Folk instrument , dances according to the song ) say that even today , it is believed that Naag ( snake ) killing may cause harm . Naag ( snake ) is also considered Bhumipal ( One who serves the
land ) . Besides crossing of the Naag ( snake ) on the way is considered as bad omen . Snake is considered as savior of sun and power and one which protects people , money and property . One is free from the bad effects of Kal Sarp Dosh ( a astronomical situation in horoscope ) , in one worships the snake on the day of Naag Panchami . In the temples meant for Lord Shiva , the snakes are offered milk and kheer ( rice cooked in milk and sweetened ) . It is also not considered to be auspicious , to watch two fighting snakes .
Land of Kirat
Historian Talmi , has called area of Garhwal and Kumoun as the place where Kirat originated and called it as Tangan Pradesh ( Tangan State ) . Tangan or Tangra state was famous for its small heights horses . In garhwal , there is one Chati ( halting place ) of the name of ' Tangari ' , on the way to Badrinath . But the people here were not of Kirat tribe but were of Khas tribe . Because this place was Kirat Mandal ( Kirat -
Zone ) before it became to known as Kedarhand , Khas Mandal . It has found a mention in ' Skand Puran – Kedarkhand ' . Besides Kedarkhand was the living place of ' Tangan ' tribe. It has been confirmed in Forest Chapter of ' Mahabharata ' . Besides the great poet Kalidas has also mentioned about Kirats in Himwant . In his book ' Kumarsamabha ' , he has opined the birth of Sambav Of Kumar in Nanda Devi , in verse 67 . He knew about the highest peak Nanda Devi of Himalaya and also knew about Nanda ( Parvati ) .
Khas
In the time of Rigveda , King of Panchal and his son Divodas – Sudas had to battle with Sanwar etc demons who were the chief of these Knner – Kirat – Naag tribes . But these battles must have been fought in the hills which were bordering Panchal ( Roohelkhand ) and not in inside Himalaya . Vedic Aryans came very late to settle in the hills . Before them , their kith kin of Kush ( Cesi ) and Chatriyani Khatri ( Celriboni ) who used stay in forests . After considering number of such examples , Atkinson wrote – " As per Pleeny , that time Khas people used to live in the west of their present place in Kumoun and Nepal and ' Tangan ' and
' Kirat ' used to live between Tons river and Sharda river . ( Mahabharata – Dronaparva -12143 ,
Udyogparva – 160103 ) . Atikinson again wrote after quoting Talimi - " He indicated that Darad used to live at the origin of Rawi river , Kswaroi at the origin of Chunaw river , Kulind used to live at the origin place of Vyas river , Satlaj river , Yamuna river and Ganga river . Out of these Darad are still living in Astor and
Gilgit . Secondly Kaswaroi were inhabitants of middle of Kashmir tributary and Ganga . ( Himalayan
Districts )
After detailed examination , Atikinson while describing Khashon , Kashkar , Khohon and people of Kabul and wrote that they were all same . " These Khas have their origin from a tribe , which left its footprint in Himalaya at various places . These tribes and tribes in western Himachal has the same origin . As time passed on , due to political reasons and ingress of other tribes , divided in to different people . Some them converted to Muslims , some became Buddhist and some due external effects became Hindu for religion , conduct and language . Khas wanted to get connection with higher tribe and that is why they became
Hindus . Which ever tribe came to this place from Tibet in the north or from the plains in the south , they remained either separate of shadowed ' Khasiya ' . Some where they married banned castes and mixed the blood genetically . Due to these reason , it is not possible to establish relationship with Kashkar , Khoha , Katora and between Katyuri and Khasiyan of Kumoun " . So many evidence in support of it are found .
Similarly Khas tribe which came earlier followed by Vedic Aryans , did not allow Kinner – Kirat to lead a life of self respect and forced them to convert to Dome ( Artisans ) , or run away in the forest . Khas tribe and Vedic Aryans , easily had a treaty between them because they were branches of the same tribe . This way their combined power must have been able to suppress the Kirats . Khas and Shak belonged to same tribe . Khas used follow the same custom of Shaks and they used bury the deads and build tomb according to the one's resources . Mahashak feudal lord of khas tribe expanded his rule from Gilgit in central Asia to behind Kali river , eastern Nepal . As per the proverb given in ' Kedar Khas Mandale ' Kedar is the synonym of Khas country . Ganga river which is the holiest , has got origin in Kedarkhand . There is not much of difference in language of Garhwal and Kumoun . But since there was political affiliation , there must have been political unity between Shak , Gupt , Bhotan ( Bhotantik ) , in Kurmachal and Kedarkhand , since way ahead it took the shape of Panwar dynasty . At the remaining time this place was ruled by number of small feudal lords . The land ruled by Khas was very large and consisted of Chtral , Kashgar , Kashmir , Hindukush and all land part of the Himalaya . In Mahabharata it is mentioned that Khas people brought gifts during the religious rituals done by the King Yudhistar . They used to live between mountain Meru and Mandar on the side of the river Shaloda .
The evidence is given in a verse :-
Khasa Ekasana Hayrha Pradara Deergh Vishawah
Pardashyay Kulidansch Tanganamah Partanganah .
Which means that Khas , Ekasan , Arah , Pradar , Deergh Vanu , Parad , Tangan , Partangan used to live there . In the battle of Mahabharata fought between Kaurav and Pandavas , people of Khas tribe fought under Satyaki for Kaurava forces . In the ' Manusmriti ' , it is mentioned that Khas became labor class from the fighter class . Therefore , Tangan , Kulind , Darad and Khas in fact were part of large tribe . It has been mentioned in Mahbharata ( Aadi Parva 176 and 327 ) that when sage Viswamitra forcibly wanted to take the sacred cow ' Nandini ' of sage Vashist , ' Nandini ' created Khas tribe from various parts of its body , for defending herself . ( Karanparv – chapter 8 ) and it also has been mentioned in ' Kalki Puran ' . Roman historian Pleeni has written about Khas tribe – ' The burial places of hill tribes of area between Sindhu ( Indus ) and Jamuna ( Gomanes ) , are found in southern Russia and Altai and reminds of mixed burial places . Though the Khas tribe ( people doing animal husbandry ) were not so resourceful , yet it is not surprising that these may be of feudal lords of Khas tribes . These burial places are found in Kumoun , Dwarhat , Baijnath , Bageshwar etc . Archeologically these are considered burial places of Moguls but these are of Shaks . ( Kumoun Ka Itihas – Badridat Pandey , p.639 )
Aryans
After the arrival of Kirat and Khas tribe Aryans came to Garhwal . When Aryan reached near the Satlej river , it consisted of five main tribes .Tritsu ( Gahrwal ) , Puru ( Rawi ) , Anu ( Western Sindh ) , Yadu and Tramsu ( Yamuna ) . Out them a Tritsu named Panchal , despite having owner of five lands reached Sanum in Himalaya . It is difficult to say that whether Panchal king Tatputra Diwodas and Sudas , who had an encounter with Jirshanwar demon , he was the king of Dravids and Kirat of plains . Shanwar has established forts for defense . Therefore , Sudas had to face many difficulties . It appears that these demons were not Kirat but were Dravida. The underdeveloped forts of Shanwar must be in the north of Panchal ( Ruhelkhand ) and forced Divodas – Sudas to make extra efforts in conquering him . But it is no where mentioned and neither evidence is found in support . Quite contrary to it , not only during the medieval period and even now Khas maintain their prominence in Garhawal . Irrespective of the fact that during the time of Divodas – Sudas , Khas were not able to reach northern Himalaya of Panchal ( Ruhelkhand ) , but at last they were able to form a Kahs zone in the Kirat prominence state .
In the epic ' Mahbharata ' zone of Kedarkhand Mandal , finds mention many times . Which clarifies that during the creation of ' Mahabharata ' ( Pre 2nd century ) , that people were aware about this state . Perhaps were knowing it before it also . Himwant is called the land of sages . But by this time , it had become Khas state and one of those became ardent follower of these sages . After ' Mahabharata ' or afterwards , number of illustrious kings have ruled Kuru or Panchal states , but it can not be hoped that they would have established their rule upto Gangotri , Jamnotri or Badrinath . But from the example of Muslim rule , we can assume that the ruler of hills used to give gifts to his southern illustrious neighbors which used satisfy the rulers of Panchal or Kurushetra .
1.Beginning Period
Shak basically were the descendant of Khas . It is assumed that Khas word changed to Shak . Before the Himalayan campaign of the ancient Khas , there was turmoil on account of attack of Hun and Shak were forced to leave their original place eastern Sinkyang and slowly after eviction Unanis , became ruler of Baltic ( Bakhtar ) . In the first century , they became ruler of western India including Punjab , Afghanistan . These Shaks were tribes which used travel like what we see their descendant ' Gujar ' and ' Gaddi ' who rear cattle now days . As time passed on , major part of these Shaks fighters settled as Gujar-Jat and Aheer in the plains and some also went to hills where old Khas were settled . Once the dominance of Shak was destroyed by Guptas and Huns in the 4th century that many Shak princes and feudal lords were forced to take shelter , here there , in Himalayas like Hemtal ( Shwet Hun ) Mihirgul .
At the first stage , the origin of Garhwali language is connected with the conversational language of Shak tribes . Which is influenced by the distorted Darad , Pishach and similar to the language of Rajputs and Gujars of the state of Rajasthan . Therefor , the effect of Rajasthani language is found of Garhwali language . The branch of Shakh Kushan clan feudal lords were greatly influenced by Indian values . Kanishk the emperor of Kushan dynasty is considered as second Ashoka . His heirs were – Kanishka , Basuk , Husishk , Basudev ( 79 to 176 century ) . Though name of Basudev is not found as heir of Kanishka . Instead hindu God and Goddeses figures are inscribed on the coins of his reign . Shak speedily adopted the Hindu religion . Similar to the coins of Basudev , on the copper inscription of King Lalitsur , Nadiya ( Nandi Bullock , which is associated with Lord Shiva ) is found . Perhaps due to this worship of Brahmins , it has been mentioned in the epic Bhagwat . ( Himalaya Parichay , Bhag 1 – Rahul Sanskrityan ) . In this way Sun idols found in Garhwal and Kumoun are asscociated with Shak . Shaks were ardent worshipers of the Lord Sun . Sun idols have been found in Martand ( Kashmir ) and Katarmal ( Almora ) . Sun idol at Joshimat in Garhwal is also associated with Shaks and is very old . In the west near Satluj river the destroyed Sun Temple of Shakshat , is considered of 8th century . From the copper inscription of Lalitsur , its period comes to be the beginning of the Katyuri dynasty . It is also possible the remains of the destroyed sun temple may be of Katyuri dynasty . Therefore , Shaks were intimately associated with Garhwal and Kumoun . It is confirmed by the popularity of Khas Shalibahan Calendar in Garhwal and Kumoun and relations of recent Princely rulers with it . ( Himalay Parichay , Bhag 2 , Rahul Sanskratyan . Page 66 ) . Remains of Sun temple have been found at many places when excavations were done . Out of these Palethi ( Tehri – constructed by Kalayan Verma – 7 th century ) , Kyark , Raithal ( Uttarkashi - 8th century ) , Manjually Noganwan ( Uttarkashi ) , are worth mentioning .
2. Hun ( Torman and Mihirkul Rule – 455 -534 A.D. )
Hun in fact had not reached India , even then Kidar , Torman and Mihirgul tribes have been called as Hun like in Iran . They were connected with merely by that all tribes after vacating their mother land ( Shank Island ) , the Haital Shank tribe remained here for five centuries and in the fifth century due to some reason had to move to central Asia . Where they destroyed Kushan dynasty and 455 A.D. they defeated Skandgupta and reached India . They were under the king Torman ( Death 502 A.D. ) His large empire was spread from Caspian sea to central India . He made the sun temple of Gwalior . His son Mihirgul ( Ravikumar ) even attacked Magadh and in 534 A.D. he took shelter in Kashmir after he was defeated by the combined force of Magdheswar ' Baladitya ' and Maleswar ' Yashverma ' . That time most of the land area in Himalaya was under the control of Hun tribes .
3. Harshwardhan Period ( 605 to 647 A.D. )
At the time Mihirgul was defeated in 534 A.D. in North India , four major dynasty were available . ( 1 ) Brdhan of Thaneswar . ( 2 ) Magadh Gupta in Magadh who was successor of Gupta dynasty . ( 3 ) Maukhari in Kanyakubj , who was also a successor . ( 4 ) Balabhi Dynasty at Sourastra . Mihirgul ruled Kashmir till 537 A.D. . Mandlik kings must have been under the rule of Maukhariyon and Bardhano , in central Himalaya . The king of Maukhari , Eshanvarma ( 554 A.D. ) used to call himself , the victor of Andhra ( Chalukya ) , Gour ( Gupta ) and Soolik . It is definite that he must have expanded his kingdom . Grahwarma husband of Rajsri , sister of Harshvardhan , was the last Moukhari king . Harshvardhan ( 605 – 47 A.D. ) was the last emperor of North India . He was the ruler of Thaneswar ( Vardhan )and Kanyakubj ( Moukhari ) . His kingdom stretched from North Himalaya to Sorastra and Gour ( Bengal ) . Sometimes before 605 A.D. Prabhakar Vardhan father of Harshvardhan died in the battle with Hun ( White – Hun ) . Which means that even after flight of Mihirgul to Kashmir , the power of the Hun had not waned in Sindh – Panjab . Though at this place Turuska had taken the place of White Hun , but our people were taking them White Hun only .
During the rule of Harshvardhan , there was complete peace with immense prosperity all around . That time Chinese traveler , Hwenchang travelled around India . He has described about a state called by name Brahampur in Himalaya . Besides he has also described about Mayapur ( Haridwar of to day ) . From there Hwenchang went Po-lo-ki-mo-pula ( Brahampur ) . Hwenchang wrote that on North of the Brahampur state , there is land of gold . Where high quality gold was found . This is Masarover state of present time . Roman writer Connigham has opined that the capital of the Katyari state Brahampur was Lakhanpur or Verapattan . But it could be Barhat ( Uttarkashi ) , north of which is Mansarover state . Therefore Brahampur must be under Harshvardhan . ( Puratan aur Arvacheen Garhwal – Raibahdur Patiram ) .
4. Tibet Rule
The empire of King Harshvardhan , was no longer could remain one power full entity after his death in 629 – 49 A. D. At this time Islamic powers were advancing towards the east , but it took lot of time in reaching Kabul – Kashmir , in Himalayas . The king of Tibet Sond-Chan-Sagem-Po ( 626-49 A.D.) , used his expanding power correctly , and his rule in the north expanded to Tarim and Huwangho . In the east from the inner part of the China to South in the Himalaya , it spread all around . Almost for two centuries , they ruled this part of the land effectively . Land from Gilgit to Assam was under their control . The result was that language was influenced by Tibet language and the face got the Mongolian look . Even today , in Raji ( Kirati ) and Kinner ( Malani ) etc languages , Tibet language words are found . Bhotantik brothers ar found of Mongolian look . The army commander of Harshvardhan , after death of Harshvardhan , inherited the northern portion of the empire and Himalaya was part of it . But he was defeated by the northern opponent because humiliation of Arjuna , the commander , was humiliated by army of Tibet on the direction of ambassador and he was arrested . Due to it this portion of Himalayas was easily taken over by Bhot ( Lhasa ) . According to history of Tibet , between the year 640 A.D. and 780 A.D. , all kings of Himalayas were under the rule of Tibet . The time of Stelidande Buchun ( 750 A.D. – 780 A. D. ) was the climax of the prosperity of Lhasa empire . He called the great teacher Shantirakshit from Nalanda , for propagating the Buddhist religion and also established ' Samu-Ye ' monastery . It can not be hoped that Bhandiwansh may have regained the rule of Himalaya from Lahsa ( Bhot Rule ) . In the year 783 A.D. , two claimants of, Chakrayudh and Indrayudh were supported by Gujjar Pratihar loyalist ' Vatsraj ' ( 783 A.D. – 815 A.D .) and the king of Magadh Dharampal ( 770 – 815 A.D. ) reached Kannoj along with his military . The result was in favor of Vatsraj . Dharampal and his son Devpal kept on staking claim over Himalaya . The initial success of victory of Kanoj confirms it . But at the same time , it is also worth consideration that Lhasa gained victories in China and was in strong possession of Seedkyad . According Chinese historian , 836 A.D. – 848 A.D. was the only time when the might of Tibet had reduced because Thad army defeated Tibet . At this time Kanoj was under the strong rule of Bhoj – first ( 839 – 92 A.D. ) . Therefore , it can be assumed that , at this time the Tibet had lost the rule of Himalayan land .
5. Katyuri Dynasty
Katyuri dynasty is considered as the first dynasty historically of Himalayas . But it is difficult to find out about the kings who ruled in the beginning , neither it could be found that to which family they belonged . But from the inscription of this period , it can be assumed that Kayuris were fully aware about the inscriptions . It is possible as Dharampal and Devpal , both claim victories of Kedarkhand . The first victory of Kanoj by Dharampal give credence to this theory . The last Gupta emperor and Harshvardhan had complete control over Kedarkhand . The successor of Harshvardhan , Bhandi dynasty had Lhasa ( Tibet ) kingdom was a strong opposition . In 841 A.D. , the Tibetan rule was in turmoil . Which enabled Devpal and Boj –first ( Kanoj ) to take control of Himalaya and it is also possible that Devpal must have taken control of Nepal and on his own or with support of Bhoj – first , Basantdev of Katyuri dynasty must have taken control of Kedarkhand . This way it can be assumed that Katyuri dynasty must have been established in 850 A.D. and appear to be logical .
Eight generations of Basantan , five generations of Salonaditya , thirteen generations , if considered successive rulers and if we assume six rulers in one century , then the rule of thirteen Katyuri – kings must have been between 850 A.D. and 1050 A.D. The inscriptions may also be of this period . But southern neighbor of Katyauri kings Pratihar Bhoj – first ( 836 – 892 A.D. ) , Mahenderpal – first ( 892- 914 A.D. ) and Mahipal – first ( 914 – 945 A.D. ) had been strong rulers . One doubt arises as to how that time Kasturi dynasty being the rulers of Hastibal and Urastabal , had command over a state of plains ( Present Ruhelkhand and Merut Commisionery ) and how Kedarkhand could remain aloof from the Influence of the Pratihars . If we consider that after Mahipal ( 914-945 a.d. ) , Kasturi' s power had increased , then we may assume the rule of this dynasty from 950 - 1150 a.d. But it lags behind , if we consider the script . It is undoubtedly correct . But we will have to consider the from Basantan ( 850 – 870 a.d ) to Eshtagana ( 930 – 947 a.d. ) , Pratihars , have to be accepted the feudal lords . Though no where any thing is mentioned about these kings .
Insriptions
One stone inscription and five copper inscriptions of the Katyuri rule has been found . The places are – Pandukeshwar , Katikeyapur , Bageshwar and Baleswar . As per the first three inscriptions the Katyuri dynasty was as follows :-
( 1 ) Basantan ( Sajyanara ) ( 2 ) Adhidhej ( Laudadh ) ( 3 ) Tribhuwan Raj ( 4 ) Niwart ( Nashar ) ( 5 ) Ishtagana ( Vemu ) ( 6 ) Lalitsur ( Laya )
As per the remaining three inscriptions , the Katyuri dynasty was as following :- ( 1 ) Salonaditya ( Singhbali ) ( 2 ) Echat ( Sindhu ) ( 3 ) Deshete ( Padmal )
Comparision of Pal and Katyari inscriptions
Both traditionally use the Kutil script . Which is found in writings and Tibetan inscription on copper of Pal dynasty during 9 th and 10 th century . Both are same Katyuri dyanasty . In four inscriptions of both order , the capital is Kartikeypur . There are less chances that Bhudev must have changed the old capital ( of the time of Lalitpur ) Kartikupur . But Subhiksrau has called his father Devat's capital Kartikeypur as Subhikashpur . Shaliwahan was the first man of both the dyanasty . When through out India Vikrami calendar was more popular , but in Himachal Shak calendar was used . It matters most literally and historically . In Himanchal , even now Shak calendar is used primarily . The rajputs and doti of Nepal also consider themselves as of the dynasty Shaliwahan . Although there are lot of difference in the dynasty of Doti and Ascot , but names are similar .
Katyuri Bravery
Basantan is important being the founder of Katyuri dyanasty . He displaced the Bhot Rule and established own rule , is enough to verify his bravery and skill . In the tenth century , Lalitsur with the help of his army of Hastibal , Ustrabal and army on horses , could have won the northern Bhot and Southern Pratihars because they become weak . In the Pal scriptures , the founder of the dynasty ' Gopal ' has been simile of Prathu . Lalitsur was also given the same simile . This was the proof of his bravery . In the inscription of the time of Devapal , Tibetiya has described by names of Bhot and Lahsa . It is possible that Bhudev ( 969 – 980 a.d. )son of Lalitsur , has described about his own best friend Kiratputra , in the inscription of Bageswar , he must be some Tibeti feudal lord or must some Kirat feudal lord of the area near Bageswar .
Katyuri Shak
It has already been described that the original man Shaliwahan of Katyuri's in the dynasty of Doti and Askot . In the two dynasty of Garhwal ( Wiliams and Almora ) , King Shaliwan are the eighth and eleventh king . Though Andhra is the name of Satwahno , who was a rival and relative of Shaks . But the way Shakabd of Shaks could be called Shaliwahan , likewise Shaliwahan could be used as synonym of Shaks . The idol of sun deity of Shak and Katyuri is same which were at Gopeswar , Katarmal , Baijnath , Bageswar and Dwarhat . Therefore Shak and Katyuri were of the same dynasty or caste . ( Himalaya Parichay – 1 , Rahul Sanskrytyan ) .
Brahaman converted from budhist
Customarily Basudev ( 850 A.D. ) has been said to be the founder of Katyuri dynasty . He populated Kartikpur ( Joshimat of present ) . It was alleged that Basudev became a Brahman after leaving the Buddhist religion . In the Katyuri inscription , Basudev has not been mentioned in the thirteen kings . If we consider Basudev as Basantan ( First Katyuri ruler ) and then he must contemporary of Kanoj King Bhoj first and Pal dynasty Vigrahpal . Jagatguru Shankarachary ( World teacher ) , Basudev and Basantan may also be contemporary . According to Dr. Shambhu Prasad Bahuguna , Shankaracharya reached Himwant in the 7th century . It is proved by the customs that Shankaracharya reached this part of the land and it is clear that he must have reached during the time of Basantan or Basudev . Therefore , it is false to assume that Shankaracharya drove out Buddhist from India or from this place . From the various Lord Shiva temple found in the area Himalayas , it can be assumed the population must have been the follower of Lord Shiva . Therefore , here there was ' Maheswar Sampradaya ' ( Lakusheeya ) dynasty was present . In the time of Gujjar Pratihar , North India was under their influence . Besides in the inscriptions of Katyuri Dynasty , ' Param Maheswar ' ( Supreme followers of Lord Shiva ) has been inscribed and discovery of idol of Lord Shiva , they are connected with Maheswar ( Lakusheeya dynasty ) Community . At that time Sindh – Mulatanpur had been under Mogul rule and for a century the interest of brahamans and Buddhist were damaged . But the Kashmir area of Himalaya , was the fort of Buddhist where valuable Sanskrit text was translated in to Tibetan language . In the 9th century , the symptoms of decay of Mahabodh Dharam ( Buddhist religion ) are found . Therefore , allegation on Shankaracharya appear to be false . It is possible that after decentralization of the power of Tibetan empire , its influence on Kedarkhand gradually reduced and for attaining power , there was fierce battle between Bhot Shatriya and native feudal lords . That time , due to weakness of the Buddhist rulers , the Buddhist religion also decayed , and seeing this situation , Basudev or Basantan must have given up Buddhist religion and must have taken shelter of Brahaman religion . From historical circumstances , it is found that in the 9 th century , Buddhist religion was widely propagated , but in Garhwal – Kumoun , the archeological remains of Buddhist religion are not found . In Baijnath ( Amora ) , the idol which is said to be of Buddha , that is not his , but is of Kuber of Bhairav . The inner discontent and destruction of the villages and cities , may be the reason that no idol has been found in Kumoun – Garhwal . After seeing many Buddhist sanctuary , it is doubted that the idols are made of metal and wood in place of stone .
Last Days of Katyari Dynasty
Veerdev is considered to be last ruler o Katyari dynasty . Though his name is not found in the inscriptions and not in the Kayuari Dynasty documents . Even then Parmar call him the last ruler of Katyuri dynasty . His rule was cruel and painful . It is described in the in the Dev Ahawan ( God Prayer ) which is sung at the time of Kumaouni God is said to have come on the head . Similarly , there are other people's sayings . One of those say that he had kept his sister-in-law Tilotama ( ' Bhoji , tile dharu, bola – song ) . His subject were under great distress under his rule . One day King Veerdev fell into a ditch and died . After his death , Katyuri dynasty fragmented and was divided in to various branches . First of all , Brahamdev took over the rule of Kumoun ( Kali Zone ) and possibly second Jaithi branch started ruling at Doti . Third branch , started ruling Askot , Suin . Forth started its rule at Baramandal ( Almora ) . The fifth branch became the ruler of Baijnath Temple ( Kathuriyan ) and Danpur Zone . The sixth branch ruled Dwarhat and Lakhanpur and the kingdom of Garhwal , also was distributed amongst many Katyuri rulers . It is found by the historical customs . Perhaps , Garhwal had chosen a spate path much before .
Many Rulers
( 1 ) Ashokchall ( 1191 A.D. )
As per the record of the dynasty , Trilokpal became the ruler after Veerdev . He was the last Katyuri king . His eldest son Niranjandev remained in ' Doli' and younger son Abhayapal ( 1279 A.D. ) went to Askot ( Almora ) . It is found from the inscriptions that in 1191 A.D. Ashokchall conquered the land of Katyuri's . Mohmad Gouri destroyed his neighbors Gahadwaron of Kanoj state after two years . The victory of Ashokchall is confirmed from the two inscriptions found . Out of which one is inscribed on the 16 feet long iron trident at Gopeshwar and the second is 21 feet long metal trident at Badahat ( Uttarkashi ) . It is known by these that in 12th century Ashokcall ruled land from the river Alaknanda up to Bhagirathi and all Kedarkhand land . Which means the present Pauri Garhwal , Tehri Garhwal , Chamoli Garhwal and Uttarkashi districts . Besides the splendid metallic idol of Gunge ( Western Mansarovar ) which was got constructed by the Bhot king of Lord Buddha , even now is worshipped as of Datatreya . It is clear that , in the beginning of the 11th century the Bhagirathi river tributary up to Malyana was under the rule of Kayuri kings . These inscriptions have been described in detail by Atkins . Ashokchall was also known by the name of ' Anekmall ' .
( 2 ) Richalldev ( 1223 A.D. )
After 32 years of Anekmall ( Ashokchall ) , it was known a new victor Challdev arrived in Kumoun and it is confirmed from the history of Nepal that Richalldev was Nepali . During the rule of Thakurs , number of persons became kings in Nepal , who belonged to the small hamlets . At Kantipur ( Kathmandu ) , there were 13 kings . Which was called the Jhinmith dynasty . These Thakurs constructed number of Buddhist sanctuaries . The inscription about Richalldev is inscribed in the copper plate on the north of Baleswar . In which the writings of Katyuri King Dashatdev has been inscribed . In this inscription , Richalldev has been lavishly praised . In this way the Kayuri rule and the dynasty , got fragmented and now their memory is confined to some copper inscription and stone inscriptions . Therafter Panwar dynasty was established and Panwar Kings took over the reign of the kingdom . All these inscription are in Sanskrit and in it Katyuri dynasty has been lavishly praise .
Panwar Dynasty
After the fragmentation of Kayuri rule and decay of the powers of the rulers , control of the whole Garhwal to number of rulers and kings . Katyuri's were also were Shak or Khas . Therefore , this place became a Khas Mandal ( Khas Zone ) . The rulers , Thakurs , remained busy in fighting one another and looting . On the one hand , rulers in the hills like Painkhand use to rob the rulers of Sugarh ( Nagpur ) , on the other hand they themselves were used to be robbed by the Bhot in habitants in the North . One Thakur King was not inclined to see the subjects of other Thakur King , neither he liked to punish the people of his own who used to rob others . Pandit Harikrishana Raturi wrote in his bood History of Garhwal , that there were 52 Garh ( Fort ) in Garhwal which resulted in calling Bawani Garhwal ( Garhwal of 52 forts ) of Khas zone of Kedarkhand . He has given the details of these forts .
Details of Dynasty
Though credit for bringing all these 52 forts under one rule goes to Panwar dynasty , but the details of the dynasty are also found elsewhere . Out which , the oldest was found by Hadewick in 1796 A.D. The details of dynasty found by Breeket was of the year 1849 A.D. which was found in Almora . But the details of the dynasty given by Pandit Harikrishna Raturi , is considered more authentic . In all these details of dynasty , poetic literature of ' Manodeya ' written by Bharat Jyotirai , who considered Manshah grandson of Ajaipal and son of Sahajpal , has been considered as most authentic . The poet was contemporary of Manshah ( 1547 – 1608 A.D. ) , original man was Kanakpal . His another name was Gang and it is mentioned in history of Saharanpur . It has been mentioned that coins found were bearing the name of Kanishk or Janaka . Raturi has quoted some Pandit ( Knower of knowledge ) who was dependent on the ruler – " Bhanupratap was the father-in-law of Kanakpal . Bhanupratap was the king of this state and he was more powerful than the king of 52 forts . He married his eldest daughter with Rajpal son of King of the Kumoun and married his youngest daughter to with king Kanakpal of Panwar dynasty . The same dynasty is still ruling in Garhwal . Second school of thought says that Kanakpal married the daughter of Sonpal , the king of Bhilang , who was the king of western part of upper Garhwal . It is still not certain that where Kanakpal was actually married . From the fore goings , it can be assumed that , the history of Panwar dynasty starts with Ajaipal who was not before Manshah 7 century before , but as per ' Manodaya' Sahajpal father of Manshah has been considered to be the king and Balbhadrashah who was in between Sahajpal and Manishah , is doubtful . One alms letter of the year 1547 A.D. of Manshah has been found . Therefore , the time period of Ajaipal appears to be 1500 A.D. In ' Manodaya' Manshah time period has been said to be 1547-1608 A.D. , but details of dyanasty given by Raturi and Bricket give this period to be 1591-1610 A.D .
Assault by Taimurlang
Taimur attacked Delhi and other places for robbing money – property and not for expansion of his kingdom . At that time the King of Garhwal was Baharoj . Bharoj , Baroj , Veerdutt , Brahamdutt etc name can come out from this word Baharoj which was written in Naskh script . Historians while writing about Taimur , has written that he had a very large army . Which means that Garhwal was under a rule of a power at least 100 years before Ajaipal . Besides the ruler was having a prime place amongst the kings of India . Taimur has written " Hindus were defeated , some of them ran towards the forest in order to save their life and some were arrested . Immense money , property , cows , buffalo , women , children , elephants , horses was obtained . " Taimur that night only , returned to his camp and next day after travelling five kosh reached Bahara and the third day went to Sarsawa . Perhaps , Taimur did not enter the interior of Himalayas. In Doon ' Nawada ' has been called to be old capital of Garhwal . One Garhwali saying indicates that Garhwali's fought a battle with Nadirshah at Bandarbhel . Nadirshah did not advance towards the hills . It is possible that people considered Taimur as Nadirshah , as Taimur also did not go ahead of Banderbhel .
Kings of Panwar Dynasty
Ajaipal ( 1493-1547 A.D.) – Amongst the Panwar Dynasty kings , Ajaipal is considered to be the first king . In ' Manodaya ' astrologer Baratrai has written about the king Ajaipal – " King Ajaipal who was like Yudhistar remains firm in battle , the eldest brother of pandu's , was born in Chandravansh (Chandra dynasty ) and who only by announcement of his name , used to break the mental balance of the opponents . " As per Rai Bahdur Patiram , above description of the poet , was written after three generation of King Ajaipal . Garhwal was unified from the north snow covered mountains , in south Chandi ( Hardwar ) and in west east of Jamuna upto Badhan . The land area so far known as Kedarkhand was rechristened to Garhwal from this time only . King Ajaipal was an efficient and sober ruler , who demarcated his kingdom and administrative reforms were implemented . He divided the kingdom in zones and he was known to be a person who loved architecture and art . Ajaipal had to also fight the king of Kumuon who was his contemporary . After initial defeats , he was victorious later . He changed the capital of his kingdom from Chandpur ( 1512 A.D. ) to Devalgarh . At Develgarh , king Ajaipal established a temple of Goddess Jagdamba . It has been written on the podium below the temple – ' Raja Ajaipal Ko Bhandari Karo' – which means that King Ajaipal be given treasures . It also confirms the possibility of Devalgarh being his capital . Garhwali language was the official language of Panwar dynasty . In 1517 A.D. , in order to have a plain and central place for the capital of the kingdom , Srinagar was made the capital of the kingdom .Most of the places of Srinagar , how ever , were washed away by the flood of Birahi Ganga in 1814 A.D. In the complete kingdom of the Panwar dynasty , Garhwali language was spoken and was popular .
Sahajpal ( 1548 -1551 A.D. ) – King Sahajpal was the son and heir of King Ajaipal . He was great politician and religious king . He offered a bell at the Raghunath Temple ( Devprayag ) in 1566 A.D. ( Shak 1582 ) .
Balbhadra Shah ( 1581-1591 A.D. ) – He was an illustrious king and Moguls used to respect him . He was the first ruler of Garhwal who adopted the title of Shah and this custom continued . He maintained good relations with Katyuri king Sukhdev . He improved the palace at Srinagar and enacted land rules and financial rules .
Manshah ( 1591-1611 A.D ) - After Balbhadrashah , Manshah ascended the throne , being the heir . In his kingdom only , Bharat poet in his praise wrote ' Manodaya' , a Sanskrit poetic literature . Evidence of which is found in Raghunath Temple at Devprayag . Manshah ruled for about 19 years successfully and at the age 34 years died . He was the only successful king after king Ajaipal who conquered Tibet and ensured safety of Garhwal . After Ajaipal , he was the second ruler who conquered Tibet and after obtaining golden vessel from Chaprang Mana Tibet established at Ukhimath Temple ( Rudrprayag ) .
Shyamashah ( 1611-1624 A.D. ) - He was a self respecting king . There is one Garhwali proverb – ' Shyamshah Kolai , Sammi Ta Sammi , Bangi Ta Bangi ' – which means – Shyamshah was a self respecting king , like a pine tree . He remained straight with straight person and hard with hard person . He was praised by Mogul historians and he was contemporary to Emperor Jahangir . He used to respect learned person of the state . Molaram has written about the time of Shyamshah and many other Kings in his book ' Garhrajyavansh Ka Itiahs ( History of kings of Garhwal and their dynasty ) ' . In his rule only ' Vastushiromani ' has been written by Shankarguru .
Mahipatshah ( 1624-1631 A.D. ) - He was a brave and great politician . He has been praised in ' Garvbhanjan ' . He ruled up to Sirmor in south west . Raturi has given his time of rule as 1629 – 46 A.D. But one alms collection box of his is found to be of 1652 A.D. Therefore his time period is under doubt . He enabled the rule of Kumoun Trimalchand to recover his kingdom . He was follower of Shakt sect and he breathed his last in the battle ground . His many brave army commanders like Rikhola Lodi , Madhosing Bhandari , Banwari Das Tanwar , Dost Beig are immortal even now . Rikhola had tiff with Genral Jorawar Singh who was a Dogra victor . Madhosing is praised in a proverb- ' Ek Singh Van Ka Singh , Ek Singh Gaya Ka , Ek Singh Madhosingh aur Singh Kahe Ka ' – which means that one lion is of forest , one lion is of cow , one lion is Madhosing and why do we require any other lion . Besides the tunnel and drinking water way constructed by Madhosing is well known to day also . This king had a large kingdom .
Prithivishah ( 1631 – 1640 A.D. ) – Prithivishah was only seven years of age when historically famous mother Queen Karanwati assumed the rule and defeated Mogul commander ' Nazawat Khan ' in 1635 A.D. and became famous with the name of ' Nak-Kati-Rani ' ( Queen whose nose is chopped off ) in the history . In her period only Dehradun city was populated and she constructed many temples and water storage places ( Bawari ) . She remained very popular . When Prithivishah attained adulthood , he wanted to increase the western border of Garhwal , but failed . At last once he had tiff with Mogul emperor Humaun but he was forced to enter into a treaty on his own conditions at Srinagar. When Emperor Shahanjahan was imprisoned by Aurengzeb , son of Shahanjahan , Dara Shikoh was fighting at Lahore , but he did not leave either his son Suleman Shikoh . Suleman Shikoh after fleeing reached Garhwal , where he was welcomed . But Aurengzeb got Suleman Shikoh in captivity and gave sanad ( Rights ) of Doon to Prithivishah .
Mednishah ( 1650 – 1684 A.D. ) - Medinishah from the very beginning was faithful to Aurengzeb and , therefore , he was not bothered about the external attacks . Molaram has written that Mednishah remained under the influence of Aurengzeb .
Fatehshah ( 1684- 1716 A.D. ) – Fatehshah gained the crown at the age 15 years . He was brave , courageous and knowledgeable ruler . He conquered Chandkot and Gibar and defeated Garhsar and expanded his rule up to Tibet . He was religious , fond of literature and art and in his rule , Hindu artist Shyamdas and Hardas came to Garhwal . It is said that poet Bhusan also came to Srinagar and the proof of it is found in book of Ratan poet ' Fatehshah ' . In his rule , Jatadhar poet wrote fatehprakash , karmgranth , Ratanpoet wrote Fatehshah and Prakash poet Sukhdev wrote Vratvichar ( Talk about fasts ) , karmgranth ( book on actions ) , and Matiram wrote Vratkomudi , chandrasar . Sureshanand Barthwal , Rewatram Dhasmana , Rudrdutt Kimothi , Haridat Nautiyal , Basavanand Bahuguna , Shashidhar Dangwal , Sukhdev Chandola , Kritiram Khetolla and Haridutt Thapliyal , were nine gems of his court . He fixed copper inscription in temples to enforce religious system . In his rule only , the Sikh Guru Ram Rai was given shelter in Khurbara , Rajpur and Chamsari ( Present Dehradun ) . The king also gave permission to build a gurudwara at Srinagar . He didn't have good relations with King Uddyotchand of Kumaon , after remaining some time there , he returned to Srinagar. He ruled for about 50 years and breathed his last thereafter . After his death his heir Upendrashah also expired after one year .
Pradeepshah ( 1717 – 1772 A.D. ) He was a minor and , therefore , his mother took control of the rule of the kingdom which has found mention in many of his alms letters . Mainly of ( 1 ) Jilas ( Jileshwar Mahadev ) – 1725 A.D. ( 2 ) Srinagar( Kapilmuni ) – 1734 A.D. ( 3 ) Chandrapuri ( MurliManohar ) – 1745 A.D. ( 4 ) Srinagar ( Kamleswar ) – 1753 A.D. Pradeepshah with the help of King of Kumoun faced Ruhella Pathans . But the destruction in Garhwal could not be avoided as was done in Kumoun by Ruhella . The captured thousands of male and females and made them slaves , and took along with them . They also reached the Neeti- Mana ( Village near Badrinath ) on the northern border of Garhwal . Even to day their cruelty is reflected in a Garhwali proverb – ' Nirbhagi Rayen Rahello-He Nishthur Rahello ' – which is abusing the Ruhella's and saying to them that they be without luck , as they are cruel . Many Garhwali folk songs also describe the cruelty done by Ruhella and one copper inscription found in Garhwal , mentions about coming of Ruhella attackers in northern India who were destroyed by the deputy prime minister of the state of Awadh with the help of British . Historian Williams describes the reign of Pradeepshah as peaceful and progressive .
Lalitshah ( 1772-1780 A.D. ) - During the reign of Lalitshah , Ruhello and Bugelsingh feudal lord , plundered Doon to the maximum possible extent . Foster wrote about it , the way they were honored and they forced others to honor them , I also felt that I should become a Sikh . Younger brother of Lalitshah , Pradumnashah got the kingdom of Kumoun , which confirms the plan of Pradeepshah of expansion of the kingdom and that he was a courageous king .
Jaikritshah ( 1780 – 1785 A.D. ) - The elder brother of Lalitshah was an eccentric but was ardent follower of the Lord Shiva . After ruling for only six years , suddenly he died . Due to inner conflict in his kingdom , his rule was unstable . Sikhs attacked Dehradun , Babhar and Salana , during his reign and created havoc .
Pradumanshah ( 1785 – 1804 A.D. ) - Lalitshah during his rule had put his son Pradumanshah as the ruler of the Kumoun . He ruled Kumoung for five years by the name of Pradumanshah . Thereafter , after the death of his elder brother Jaikritshah , he became the king at Srinagar , in 1786 A.D. . But then there were chain of events which caused immense instability in his kingdom . Gorkhas attacked , first time , in 1791 . In the east there was famine of 1795 A.D. . In 1803 A.D. , a destructive earthquake caused severe damage in his kingdom , in the midnight . There were severe differences amongst his officials and the coffer was empty . His army had gone weak and forced by battle with Gorkhas , Pradumanshah requested help from British . He sacrificed his life while fighting at Khurbura . He ruled for 18 years and at the age 30 , he established many landmarks during his rule . He was the last independent ruler of undivided Garhwal – Kumoun . It has been described in a play ' Ganika ' .
Gorakhyani ( The Rule Of Gorkhas )
Gorakhas were victorious in the battle with the forces of Pradumanshah in 1804 A.D. and their rule started . Molaram has described the state of destruction caused by Gorkha forces in detail in his book – Srinagar Durdash ( The bad state of Srinagar ) . He has described the rule of Gorkhas as the rule of plunder and snatching . They bought and sold Garhwali and Kumounis as slaves . They established a big slave market at Das Bazar in Haridwar . British writer Raper has written a eye-witness account of it – ' There was a Gorakha post at the root of the way to the wharf of the Hari-Ki-Pari , where slaves used to be displayed , for the purpose of selling them . These unfortunate men – women numbered about two lakh , having age from three to thirty years . It was definitely awful time of slavery . ' Frazer had also expressed his sorrow on this type of cruelty . The taxation policy of the Gorakhas was very bad . Molaram has written about it – ' The hairs of the farmers were uprooted after suffering the liability of taxes , even then they did not leave the state . O king of Gorkha ! I am great full to your sense of justice . Thank you Gorkhali king .' It has aptly described the full picture of self humiliation . Trel has also described in a passionate sense . The distressful rule of Gorkhas ( 1803 – 1815 A.D. ) , remained for twelve years . Hastidal and Bhaktithapa were their kings . It has been described that Srinagar remained the capital of the Garhwal during that time and and for administration sake Garhwal was divided in three parts and 24 zones . Chief administrator who was an army officer , used to stay at Srinagar , Chandpur fort and Langurfort . In the zones and subzones , nominated official were available . Taxes were deposited in the royal treasury and fines used to be pocketed by the officials . Small officials were the all in all of the zones . It was a grave exploitation and due to cruelty , people were deserting the villages . The rule of Hastidal in Garhwal was very cruel . But Garhwali people never opposed the cruelty of this human-demon . People of this place used the word of ' Gorakhya ' for a cruel person , one can sense the demonizing effect of Gorkha rule . Gorkhas treated the local population even worse than the animals , caused distress to their subjects and spread unrest . Meanwhile British also started expanding their rule . Gorakhas ruled Kumoun for 25 years and Garhwal for 12 years . Prasumanshah requested Britishers for help . British sent the army in October 1814 and defeated Gorkha forces . The king Garhwal Surdarshanshah could not pay the war expenses of Rs. seven lakh to the British , as asked by them , he , therefore , entered in to an agreement . According to this agreement , King Sudarshah handed over his half of the kingdom east of river Mandakini and Alaknanda . With the result that British established their rule in Kumoun and half of the Garhwal . King Sudarshanshah had already promised to hand over Dehradun and Chandi ( Bijnor ) , to Major Hiwasi , on victory in Garhwal . British divided Garhwal in two parts . They announced that most populated place in eastern Garhwal that the subjects east of Mandakini and Alaknanda river must consider themselves as the subject of British . Gardner was the first British commissioner of Kumoun - Garhwal and thereafter Trel was appointed . How ever till 1835 A.D. , Trel remained the all-in-all of this part of the land . It is said the company wanted to hand over the whole Garhwal to Sudarshanshah at the cost of Rs. Five lakh . But it was beyond the capability of Sudershanshah . Teheri area was declared to be under Sudershanshah , by a treaty of 4th March 1820 . Tehri was made the capital of the kingdom . That time , it was a village only . Simultaneously the capital of the British part of the kingdom was changed to Pauri from Srinagar , in 1840 A.D. . Because Srinagar had hot climate .
British Garhwal Rule
Commissioner Trel remained in charge of Garhwal – Kumoun from 1815 – 1823 A.D. . Meanwhile system of Patwaris ( Village land and police officer ) was started and in the year 1839 A.D. , Garhwal was declared a separate district after bifurcation from Kumoun Commissionaire . The charge of new district was given to and asst. commissioner / deputy commissioner . All district official and collector of taxes were used to remain in district head quarter . They were helped by 84 patwaris , one each for a patti , and supervising them were 6 kanungo . Every village had one chief ( Pradhan ) who used to collect revenue . Lambardar or mukhiya used to work under him . The work of pradhan was supervised by thokdar who were later given some power , but later were left for nominal work . In 1831 A.D. , there were five police stations and seven police post in the entire Garhwal . This are later was called British Garhwal .
Tehri Kingdom
Sudarshanshah ( 1815 – 1859 A.D. ) - After the Garhwal went in to the hands of Gorkhas , Prince Sudarshanshah started living at Jwalapur , Haridwar along with the whole royal family . He led a life with many difficulties . He also stayed at Bareli for two years . From there , he asked for the help from the Company government . In 1815 A.D. when the Gorkhas were defeated , British asked for five lakh of rupees as war expenses . But the king was helpless in this regard . Therefore , the kingdom was divided into Tehri Garhwal and British Garhwal , in two parts . British had established their capital at Srinagar . The retained possession of Doon valley and Jounsar Bahbar and formally demarcated the area in the east of Rawai Pargana in the Tehri kingdom and handed over to the ruler Sudarshanshah . Sudarshanshah was an efficient , able and people loving ruler . The panwar dynasty king made his capital in small habitat located at the confluence of Bhagirathi and Bhilangana , by the name of Tehri . He led a struggling life and opened many schools for the sake of development of the kingdom and established scholarship funds . He got constructed many motor roads which made the road communication easy . Royal treasures increase on account of trade practices . The king was a art lover , he provided royal shelter to many artist like Molaram , Chaitu , Manaku etc . He was himself lover of literature and poet . He created a poetic text with the name of ' Sabhagar '
( Place of assembly ) , in eight chapters by an anonymous name of Soorat . King himself was having command over Garhwali , Braj and Sanskrit languages . He was a religious king and reconstructed the temples of Badahat . Moor , a British traveler , who came to his kingdom has lavishly praised his ability and popularity . Dr. Bhaktdarshan has categorized him as able ruler . Popular and brave ruler died in 1859 A.D. .But in his lifetime only he had declared Bhawanishah as his successor .
Bhawanishah ( 1859-1871 A.D. ) - Shershah the eldest son of Sudershanshah declared him self the king when Sudershanshah died , even before last rites were to be done . The family animosity could be finished only with the help of meditation of British and Bhawanishah was crowned as king . Bhawanishah was a simple , impartial , spendthrift , religious and peace loving ruler . In his time the kingdom implanted policy of using the forests , cutting of the trees , policy of carrying the logs of wood with the help of the rivers were enforced on the advice of Wilson , an English man , and the kingdom was immensely benefitted , economically . In his time Bhawanishah went in to many religious pilgrimage , and restored destroyed temples and constructed new temples . He got opened Sanskrit and Hindi elementary school at Devprayag . He died at the age 45 years .
Pratapshah ( 1871-1886 A.D. ) – He was crowned at age only 20 years . He was a person who knew the languages Hindi , Pharsi and English well . He was equally efficient in management of administration . He always remained ready to serve his subjects . In his rule Pratap high school was established and one printing press was opened . He made his courts to expeditiously deliver the justice . For managing land , he started the measurement technique , named Juela . He improved the policing systems also . He got constructed two state highways in the Tehri kingdom . He stopped the traditions of giving to the King khain , pala ( Giving milk and curd to the King ) , vishah ( giving food grain ) etc wrong practices on the advice of the queen Guleria . Opposite Teheri , he founded a city by the name of Pratap Nagar and beautified the the kingdom . The king gave respect to the knowledgeable . Under guardianship , Poet Deshraj created ' Garhwal Raj Vanshavalli ' ( the details of the royal details of Grahwal kings ) . After about ruling for 15 years , he died in February 1886 A.D. .
Kirtishah ( 1886 – 1912 A.D. ) - At the time of death of his father King Pratapshah , the prince was of only 13 years . Under the guardianship of Queen mother Guleria , one council started looking after the affairs of the kingdom till Prince Kirtishah becomes an adult . Prince took over the reigns of the kingdom , once he attained the age of 18 years . Queen mother was religious and she sold her own ornaments and got constructed many temples and inns . Kirtishah started the work where his father Pratapshah had left and advanced them . He added higher classes to the Pratap High School . He established Cambel hostel and opened Habit Sanskrit Pathshala . The judicial courts were reorganized . He improved the state revenue system and founded the city of ' Kirtinagar ' . He localized the management of forests . He banned the custom of sacrifice of jhota ( Buffalo ) sacrifice and bedvarta ( an art which was risky and required to slide on a rope ) . He provided financial help for the marriages of girls and banned selling of girls . ' Bank of Garhwal ' was established in the state . A fortnightly publication named ' Riyasat Teheri Garhwal ' 'Gazette' was published . Under him , praise worthy action to develop Garhwali language was carried out . Kirtishah organized a all religion conference in 1872 A.D. in the state . He sent Swami Ramteerth to Japan to participate in all religion conference . After return Swamiji remained on wharf of the Bhiligana river and here only he took trance in the water . Kirtishah was progressive and he asked his minister Harikrshan Raturi to write the history of Garwal and narendra Hindu law . He him self helped financially in publication of ' Kedarkhand Granth ' . The king himself was proficient in many languages and was a legal expert . Impressed by his qualities he was made the member of the royal council and was awarded the title of Knight Commander Star of India by K.C.S.I. . He died at the age or 40 years . Bhaktdarshan , a patriot and scholar , consider him after giving importance to his character and spirituality , as sage king . The fighter of Tehri People Struggle , a journalist , wise independence fighter Satyaprakash Raturi classifies him amongst the Tehri kings as , who loved his subjects , lover of religion , fond of literature and one who served the hermits and saints .
Narendrashah ( 1913 – 1946 A.D. ) - He was the ruler next only to Sudarshanshah , to have ruled for a long time . When his father Kirtishah died , his age was only 15 years . Therfore, under the supervision of queen mother Guleri , a supervisory committee was formed . Harikrishan Raturi along with a British representative were member of committee . Meanwhile the prince obtained his education at Mayo College Ajmer . He was crowned at the age 21 years on the occasion of Vijai Dashmi ( A day which is celebrated through out India as victory of Lord Rama over Ravana the demon ) . British made him lieutenant and was decorated with the title of ' KCSI – Knight Commander Star of India ' and was given salute by 11 guns . Banaras University after considering his ability , experience and love for education honored him by bestowing the degree of L.L.D. . First of all he demarcated the states in the border area and eradicate the disputes . In order to improve the land use and its maintenance under land-management , he got the certified measurement of the land . He provided camps for the hill tribes of Telang , Harshil , Jadung at Tunda during winters . He established number of primary schools and enhanced Pratap postgraduate college . King himself used to formulate many developmental schemes and used to get these implemented . He founded the city of Narendra Nagar in his name . He got laid down many important roads for the development of his kingdom and sent his able officials and poor students to Forest Research Institute at Dehrdun for studying forest management . For the development of agriculture , he established agriculture banks . He stopped the custom of ' bara and berojgar ' in his kingdom , which were wrong practices . During his rein , magnificent palaces , building for secretariat , hospitals and many educational institute were constructed . For quick justice , he enforced the panchayat system . His rein was full of ups and downs . People were dissatisfied and the affect of the national opinion slowly increased . Prajamandal was established in Tehri . At Rawain , unarmed people were subjected to the bullet fire at the ground of Tilari . In absence of the King patriot Devsuman died in the prison after fasting for 84 days . The body was immersed in the Ganga . Student started a struggle and youth entered in to the INA of Subhash Bose . These were some of the events which were historic . King used to be most of the time religious travels and travel to foreign destinations . In his absence , the officials of the kingdom , arbitrarily started taking actions . Though the King's personal life was simple and peaceful . Often he used to speak the Garhwali language with the Garhwali's . Education loving King had his own special museum and library where many rare handwritten original books were kept . King used to respect the learned philosopher and ascetics . At last , after remaining unwell , he abdicated the throne on 26 May 1946 and declared his eldest son Manwendrashah as his successor . Narendrashah died in a motor accident .
Manwendrashah ( 1946 -1948 A.D. ) - Manwendrashah was the 60th and last king of the Panwar dynasty . Prince was educated in Indore and Mayo College Ajmer . Thereafter he got military training at Lahore and got Indian Adiministrative Education and then he took over the rule . By that time Prajamandal at Tehri , was firmly established . Feudal lord ship was openly challenged and the struggle between the nationalist forces and the forces kingdom was taking a shape of volcano . The farmer agitation was at heights . Prisoners were being sentenced . Nagendra Sakalani and Bholusing attained martyrdom at Kirtinagar and added fuel to the fire and the agitation became more violent , aggressive . A agriculture leader of Gramchora became the Prime minister of interim government for three days . Which took some important decisions . It was decided to pay attention to the learned writers and academicians . It was proposed to some reward best academician and academicians and planned to honor the them . On 29 August 1946 , the king and Prajamandal agreed for an agreement . Indian Government after Independence on 19 August 1947 , in order to make a prosperous , powerful republic , had decided to dissolve the princely states . The then king Manwendrashah had given his acceptance in writing of dissolving the state of Tehri . Therefore , Indian Govt. issued a notification on 1st August 1949 , signifying that Tehri state has been merged with the Uttarpradesh and with this the after ruling for 1061 years , the rule of Parmar dynasty ended .
On the basis of the inscription on the coins and other historical proof , the history of Garhwal can be linked to third century pre Vikram Sambat . Before it Ved ( Sacred Scriptures ) , Ramayana , Mahabharata , Smriti , Puran ( Primeval ) and Jatak are important documents to tell the history . Where the place is referred to as Himwant State , Kedarkhand , Land Of God ( Devbhumi ) and Golden Land . It can be considered from seventh century pre vikram sambat to third century vikram sambat , based on the references made in these books regarding Uttarakhand . There is plenty of material connected with Uttarakhand in Mahabharata . The work of excavation of old site has not been done very widely in Uttarakhand . It is however finds mention in some of the work of Connigham and Furat . Unfortunately , idols in the old temple of Uttarakhand have either disappeared due to decay or has been submerged into the earth . Chinese traveler , Yuwanchang and some Muslim and British clergy have given interesting account in their travel documents . The old coins have also not recovered in Uttarakhand , in large quantity . In many coins so recovered has kahroti and brahmi script inscribed on these . The most detailed and authentic material in this regard is found in the archives which starts from the third century pre vikram sambat . During the British rule , Atkins has covered about it in his book ' Himalayan Districts ' , in detail in three volumes . Later the book ' Garhwal Ka Itihas ' ( The History Of Garhwal ) by Pandit Harikrishana Raturi , proved to be an important landmark .
Kinner – Kirat and Nag
Khas people from east central Asia ( Kashgar , Khotan ) had come to Himalaya in the second century pre A.D. . Almost at the same time , Aryan had also come to the plains of India . When these two tribes came to India , they had to fight the local local tribe Kurupachal . Which used to be living here from the beginning and were also known as Kinner and Kirat . It is difficult to establish interrelationship of Kinner , Kirat .But there was a time when the country of Kinner was spread from the watershed of Ganga to watershed of Satlaj and the Kirat country was spread from eastern watershed of Ganga to Nepal .
In the eighteenth century , tribes living in east of Kosi river were called Hurai , Limb , Yakha , Kirat . The main residents of Jorakha , Jumala , were from Magar and Gurung tribes , but are not included in Kirat tribe . But if we consider the roots as per anthropology , they were descendents of Kirat tribe only . On the western bank of Kali river at Askot , Raji ( Raji Kirati ) live who are the ascendants of Kirat tribe . In the Malani language of Kinner tribe and Raji Language of Kirat tribe , Sanskrit and Tibetan words are found in plenty . Besides a third language is also found on the base . ( Himalaya Parichah Bhag 1– Rahul Sanskretayan , Page – 42 . At the border of Garhwal , Kumoun and Kinner State with Tibet , the Bhotantik tribe does not have the appearance of Mongols , but in their language mixed or in pure form the words of Tibetan language are found . In the seventh and eighth century , Tibet has expanded its rule in Laddakh and Balistan , located in western Himalaya . It left a lasting impression on the language of this area and shape , figure that even now this place is known is small Tibet . Much before , Tibetan ( Bhot ) tribe , the area up to Gilgit and Karokoram was under control of Khash-Darad caste , which both were of the same dynasty .
Naag
Kinner , Kirat and Naag tribes were in fact different branches of tribes of Himalaya . The effect of Naag tribe is found on Garhwal , much more . We find the relationship with Garhwal of Naag tribe from Nagpur and Urgam Pattis ( Sub Sub Divisions ) . There is general opinion that there was habitation of the Naags in the watershed of Alaknanda river . In kedarkhand , in every village , we find a temple of , may be small , of Nagarja ( Serpent God ) , commonly called Mandela . Sheshnag ( Chief Serpent ) at Pandukeshwar , Bheekan Naag at village Kirat , Mangal Naag at Koltar village , Lodianaag of Autar , Naag Naath Pushkarnaath , Nagdev of Pauri , Suriyanaag of Taknaur , Nagraja of Tehri , Mahasar Naag of Thadikathur , and Hunnaag of Bhadura are famous . In Tehri , Lord Shri Krishna is worshiped as Naag Devta ( Serpent God ) .
' Gharayali ' ( Folk instrument , dances according to the song ) say that even today , it is believed that Naag ( snake ) killing may cause harm . Naag ( snake ) is also considered Bhumipal ( One who serves the
land ) . Besides crossing of the Naag ( snake ) on the way is considered as bad omen . Snake is considered as savior of sun and power and one which protects people , money and property . One is free from the bad effects of Kal Sarp Dosh ( a astronomical situation in horoscope ) , in one worships the snake on the day of Naag Panchami . In the temples meant for Lord Shiva , the snakes are offered milk and kheer ( rice cooked in milk and sweetened ) . It is also not considered to be auspicious , to watch two fighting snakes .
Land of Kirat
Historian Talmi , has called area of Garhwal and Kumoun as the place where Kirat originated and called it as Tangan Pradesh ( Tangan State ) . Tangan or Tangra state was famous for its small heights horses . In garhwal , there is one Chati ( halting place ) of the name of ' Tangari ' , on the way to Badrinath . But the people here were not of Kirat tribe but were of Khas tribe . Because this place was Kirat Mandal ( Kirat -
Zone ) before it became to known as Kedarhand , Khas Mandal . It has found a mention in ' Skand Puran – Kedarkhand ' . Besides Kedarkhand was the living place of ' Tangan ' tribe. It has been confirmed in Forest Chapter of ' Mahabharata ' . Besides the great poet Kalidas has also mentioned about Kirats in Himwant . In his book ' Kumarsamabha ' , he has opined the birth of Sambav Of Kumar in Nanda Devi , in verse 67 . He knew about the highest peak Nanda Devi of Himalaya and also knew about Nanda ( Parvati ) .
Khas
In the time of Rigveda , King of Panchal and his son Divodas – Sudas had to battle with Sanwar etc demons who were the chief of these Knner – Kirat – Naag tribes . But these battles must have been fought in the hills which were bordering Panchal ( Roohelkhand ) and not in inside Himalaya . Vedic Aryans came very late to settle in the hills . Before them , their kith kin of Kush ( Cesi ) and Chatriyani Khatri ( Celriboni ) who used stay in forests . After considering number of such examples , Atkinson wrote – " As per Pleeny , that time Khas people used to live in the west of their present place in Kumoun and Nepal and ' Tangan ' and
' Kirat ' used to live between Tons river and Sharda river . ( Mahabharata – Dronaparva -12143 ,
Udyogparva – 160103 ) . Atikinson again wrote after quoting Talimi - " He indicated that Darad used to live at the origin of Rawi river , Kswaroi at the origin of Chunaw river , Kulind used to live at the origin place of Vyas river , Satlaj river , Yamuna river and Ganga river . Out of these Darad are still living in Astor and
Gilgit . Secondly Kaswaroi were inhabitants of middle of Kashmir tributary and Ganga . ( Himalayan
Districts )
After detailed examination , Atikinson while describing Khashon , Kashkar , Khohon and people of Kabul and wrote that they were all same . " These Khas have their origin from a tribe , which left its footprint in Himalaya at various places . These tribes and tribes in western Himachal has the same origin . As time passed on , due to political reasons and ingress of other tribes , divided in to different people . Some them converted to Muslims , some became Buddhist and some due external effects became Hindu for religion , conduct and language . Khas wanted to get connection with higher tribe and that is why they became
Hindus . Which ever tribe came to this place from Tibet in the north or from the plains in the south , they remained either separate of shadowed ' Khasiya ' . Some where they married banned castes and mixed the blood genetically . Due to these reason , it is not possible to establish relationship with Kashkar , Khoha , Katora and between Katyuri and Khasiyan of Kumoun " . So many evidence in support of it are found .
Similarly Khas tribe which came earlier followed by Vedic Aryans , did not allow Kinner – Kirat to lead a life of self respect and forced them to convert to Dome ( Artisans ) , or run away in the forest . Khas tribe and Vedic Aryans , easily had a treaty between them because they were branches of the same tribe . This way their combined power must have been able to suppress the Kirats . Khas and Shak belonged to same tribe . Khas used follow the same custom of Shaks and they used bury the deads and build tomb according to the one's resources . Mahashak feudal lord of khas tribe expanded his rule from Gilgit in central Asia to behind Kali river , eastern Nepal . As per the proverb given in ' Kedar Khas Mandale ' Kedar is the synonym of Khas country . Ganga river which is the holiest , has got origin in Kedarkhand . There is not much of difference in language of Garhwal and Kumoun . But since there was political affiliation , there must have been political unity between Shak , Gupt , Bhotan ( Bhotantik ) , in Kurmachal and Kedarkhand , since way ahead it took the shape of Panwar dynasty . At the remaining time this place was ruled by number of small feudal lords . The land ruled by Khas was very large and consisted of Chtral , Kashgar , Kashmir , Hindukush and all land part of the Himalaya . In Mahabharata it is mentioned that Khas people brought gifts during the religious rituals done by the King Yudhistar . They used to live between mountain Meru and Mandar on the side of the river Shaloda .
The evidence is given in a verse :-
Khasa Ekasana Hayrha Pradara Deergh Vishawah
Pardashyay Kulidansch Tanganamah Partanganah .
Which means that Khas , Ekasan , Arah , Pradar , Deergh Vanu , Parad , Tangan , Partangan used to live there . In the battle of Mahabharata fought between Kaurav and Pandavas , people of Khas tribe fought under Satyaki for Kaurava forces . In the ' Manusmriti ' , it is mentioned that Khas became labor class from the fighter class . Therefore , Tangan , Kulind , Darad and Khas in fact were part of large tribe . It has been mentioned in Mahbharata ( Aadi Parva 176 and 327 ) that when sage Viswamitra forcibly wanted to take the sacred cow ' Nandini ' of sage Vashist , ' Nandini ' created Khas tribe from various parts of its body , for defending herself . ( Karanparv – chapter 8 ) and it also has been mentioned in ' Kalki Puran ' . Roman historian Pleeni has written about Khas tribe – ' The burial places of hill tribes of area between Sindhu ( Indus ) and Jamuna ( Gomanes ) , are found in southern Russia and Altai and reminds of mixed burial places . Though the Khas tribe ( people doing animal husbandry ) were not so resourceful , yet it is not surprising that these may be of feudal lords of Khas tribes . These burial places are found in Kumoun , Dwarhat , Baijnath , Bageshwar etc . Archeologically these are considered burial places of Moguls but these are of Shaks . ( Kumoun Ka Itihas – Badridat Pandey , p.639 )
Aryans
After the arrival of Kirat and Khas tribe Aryans came to Garhwal . When Aryan reached near the Satlej river , it consisted of five main tribes .Tritsu ( Gahrwal ) , Puru ( Rawi ) , Anu ( Western Sindh ) , Yadu and Tramsu ( Yamuna ) . Out them a Tritsu named Panchal , despite having owner of five lands reached Sanum in Himalaya . It is difficult to say that whether Panchal king Tatputra Diwodas and Sudas , who had an encounter with Jirshanwar demon , he was the king of Dravids and Kirat of plains . Shanwar has established forts for defense . Therefore , Sudas had to face many difficulties . It appears that these demons were not Kirat but were Dravida. The underdeveloped forts of Shanwar must be in the north of Panchal ( Ruhelkhand ) and forced Divodas – Sudas to make extra efforts in conquering him . But it is no where mentioned and neither evidence is found in support . Quite contrary to it , not only during the medieval period and even now Khas maintain their prominence in Garhawal . Irrespective of the fact that during the time of Divodas – Sudas , Khas were not able to reach northern Himalaya of Panchal ( Ruhelkhand ) , but at last they were able to form a Kahs zone in the Kirat prominence state .
In the epic ' Mahbharata ' zone of Kedarkhand Mandal , finds mention many times . Which clarifies that during the creation of ' Mahabharata ' ( Pre 2nd century ) , that people were aware about this state . Perhaps were knowing it before it also . Himwant is called the land of sages . But by this time , it had become Khas state and one of those became ardent follower of these sages . After ' Mahabharata ' or afterwards , number of illustrious kings have ruled Kuru or Panchal states , but it can not be hoped that they would have established their rule upto Gangotri , Jamnotri or Badrinath . But from the example of Muslim rule , we can assume that the ruler of hills used to give gifts to his southern illustrious neighbors which used satisfy the rulers of Panchal or Kurushetra .
1.Beginning Period
Shak basically were the descendant of Khas . It is assumed that Khas word changed to Shak . Before the Himalayan campaign of the ancient Khas , there was turmoil on account of attack of Hun and Shak were forced to leave their original place eastern Sinkyang and slowly after eviction Unanis , became ruler of Baltic ( Bakhtar ) . In the first century , they became ruler of western India including Punjab , Afghanistan . These Shaks were tribes which used travel like what we see their descendant ' Gujar ' and ' Gaddi ' who rear cattle now days . As time passed on , major part of these Shaks fighters settled as Gujar-Jat and Aheer in the plains and some also went to hills where old Khas were settled . Once the dominance of Shak was destroyed by Guptas and Huns in the 4th century that many Shak princes and feudal lords were forced to take shelter , here there , in Himalayas like Hemtal ( Shwet Hun ) Mihirgul .
At the first stage , the origin of Garhwali language is connected with the conversational language of Shak tribes . Which is influenced by the distorted Darad , Pishach and similar to the language of Rajputs and Gujars of the state of Rajasthan . Therefor , the effect of Rajasthani language is found of Garhwali language . The branch of Shakh Kushan clan feudal lords were greatly influenced by Indian values . Kanishk the emperor of Kushan dynasty is considered as second Ashoka . His heirs were – Kanishka , Basuk , Husishk , Basudev ( 79 to 176 century ) . Though name of Basudev is not found as heir of Kanishka . Instead hindu God and Goddeses figures are inscribed on the coins of his reign . Shak speedily adopted the Hindu religion . Similar to the coins of Basudev , on the copper inscription of King Lalitsur , Nadiya ( Nandi Bullock , which is associated with Lord Shiva ) is found . Perhaps due to this worship of Brahmins , it has been mentioned in the epic Bhagwat . ( Himalaya Parichay , Bhag 1 – Rahul Sanskrityan ) . In this way Sun idols found in Garhwal and Kumoun are asscociated with Shak . Shaks were ardent worshipers of the Lord Sun . Sun idols have been found in Martand ( Kashmir ) and Katarmal ( Almora ) . Sun idol at Joshimat in Garhwal is also associated with Shaks and is very old . In the west near Satluj river the destroyed Sun Temple of Shakshat , is considered of 8th century . From the copper inscription of Lalitsur , its period comes to be the beginning of the Katyuri dynasty . It is also possible the remains of the destroyed sun temple may be of Katyuri dynasty . Therefore , Shaks were intimately associated with Garhwal and Kumoun . It is confirmed by the popularity of Khas Shalibahan Calendar in Garhwal and Kumoun and relations of recent Princely rulers with it . ( Himalay Parichay , Bhag 2 , Rahul Sanskratyan . Page 66 ) . Remains of Sun temple have been found at many places when excavations were done . Out of these Palethi ( Tehri – constructed by Kalayan Verma – 7 th century ) , Kyark , Raithal ( Uttarkashi - 8th century ) , Manjually Noganwan ( Uttarkashi ) , are worth mentioning .
2. Hun ( Torman and Mihirkul Rule – 455 -534 A.D. )
Hun in fact had not reached India , even then Kidar , Torman and Mihirgul tribes have been called as Hun like in Iran . They were connected with merely by that all tribes after vacating their mother land ( Shank Island ) , the Haital Shank tribe remained here for five centuries and in the fifth century due to some reason had to move to central Asia . Where they destroyed Kushan dynasty and 455 A.D. they defeated Skandgupta and reached India . They were under the king Torman ( Death 502 A.D. ) His large empire was spread from Caspian sea to central India . He made the sun temple of Gwalior . His son Mihirgul ( Ravikumar ) even attacked Magadh and in 534 A.D. he took shelter in Kashmir after he was defeated by the combined force of Magdheswar ' Baladitya ' and Maleswar ' Yashverma ' . That time most of the land area in Himalaya was under the control of Hun tribes .
3. Harshwardhan Period ( 605 to 647 A.D. )
At the time Mihirgul was defeated in 534 A.D. in North India , four major dynasty were available . ( 1 ) Brdhan of Thaneswar . ( 2 ) Magadh Gupta in Magadh who was successor of Gupta dynasty . ( 3 ) Maukhari in Kanyakubj , who was also a successor . ( 4 ) Balabhi Dynasty at Sourastra . Mihirgul ruled Kashmir till 537 A.D. . Mandlik kings must have been under the rule of Maukhariyon and Bardhano , in central Himalaya . The king of Maukhari , Eshanvarma ( 554 A.D. ) used to call himself , the victor of Andhra ( Chalukya ) , Gour ( Gupta ) and Soolik . It is definite that he must have expanded his kingdom . Grahwarma husband of Rajsri , sister of Harshvardhan , was the last Moukhari king . Harshvardhan ( 605 – 47 A.D. ) was the last emperor of North India . He was the ruler of Thaneswar ( Vardhan )and Kanyakubj ( Moukhari ) . His kingdom stretched from North Himalaya to Sorastra and Gour ( Bengal ) . Sometimes before 605 A.D. Prabhakar Vardhan father of Harshvardhan died in the battle with Hun ( White – Hun ) . Which means that even after flight of Mihirgul to Kashmir , the power of the Hun had not waned in Sindh – Panjab . Though at this place Turuska had taken the place of White Hun , but our people were taking them White Hun only .
During the rule of Harshvardhan , there was complete peace with immense prosperity all around . That time Chinese traveler , Hwenchang travelled around India . He has described about a state called by name Brahampur in Himalaya . Besides he has also described about Mayapur ( Haridwar of to day ) . From there Hwenchang went Po-lo-ki-mo-pula ( Brahampur ) . Hwenchang wrote that on North of the Brahampur state , there is land of gold . Where high quality gold was found . This is Masarover state of present time . Roman writer Connigham has opined that the capital of the Katyari state Brahampur was Lakhanpur or Verapattan . But it could be Barhat ( Uttarkashi ) , north of which is Mansarover state . Therefore Brahampur must be under Harshvardhan . ( Puratan aur Arvacheen Garhwal – Raibahdur Patiram ) .
4. Tibet Rule
The empire of King Harshvardhan , was no longer could remain one power full entity after his death in 629 – 49 A. D. At this time Islamic powers were advancing towards the east , but it took lot of time in reaching Kabul – Kashmir , in Himalayas . The king of Tibet Sond-Chan-Sagem-Po ( 626-49 A.D.) , used his expanding power correctly , and his rule in the north expanded to Tarim and Huwangho . In the east from the inner part of the China to South in the Himalaya , it spread all around . Almost for two centuries , they ruled this part of the land effectively . Land from Gilgit to Assam was under their control . The result was that language was influenced by Tibet language and the face got the Mongolian look . Even today , in Raji ( Kirati ) and Kinner ( Malani ) etc languages , Tibet language words are found . Bhotantik brothers ar found of Mongolian look . The army commander of Harshvardhan , after death of Harshvardhan , inherited the northern portion of the empire and Himalaya was part of it . But he was defeated by the northern opponent because humiliation of Arjuna , the commander , was humiliated by army of Tibet on the direction of ambassador and he was arrested . Due to it this portion of Himalayas was easily taken over by Bhot ( Lhasa ) . According to history of Tibet , between the year 640 A.D. and 780 A.D. , all kings of Himalayas were under the rule of Tibet . The time of Stelidande Buchun ( 750 A.D. – 780 A. D. ) was the climax of the prosperity of Lhasa empire . He called the great teacher Shantirakshit from Nalanda , for propagating the Buddhist religion and also established ' Samu-Ye ' monastery . It can not be hoped that Bhandiwansh may have regained the rule of Himalaya from Lahsa ( Bhot Rule ) . In the year 783 A.D. , two claimants of, Chakrayudh and Indrayudh were supported by Gujjar Pratihar loyalist ' Vatsraj ' ( 783 A.D. – 815 A.D .) and the king of Magadh Dharampal ( 770 – 815 A.D. ) reached Kannoj along with his military . The result was in favor of Vatsraj . Dharampal and his son Devpal kept on staking claim over Himalaya . The initial success of victory of Kanoj confirms it . But at the same time , it is also worth consideration that Lhasa gained victories in China and was in strong possession of Seedkyad . According Chinese historian , 836 A.D. – 848 A.D. was the only time when the might of Tibet had reduced because Thad army defeated Tibet . At this time Kanoj was under the strong rule of Bhoj – first ( 839 – 92 A.D. ) . Therefore , it can be assumed that , at this time the Tibet had lost the rule of Himalayan land .
5. Katyuri Dynasty
Katyuri dynasty is considered as the first dynasty historically of Himalayas . But it is difficult to find out about the kings who ruled in the beginning , neither it could be found that to which family they belonged . But from the inscription of this period , it can be assumed that Kayuris were fully aware about the inscriptions . It is possible as Dharampal and Devpal , both claim victories of Kedarkhand . The first victory of Kanoj by Dharampal give credence to this theory . The last Gupta emperor and Harshvardhan had complete control over Kedarkhand . The successor of Harshvardhan , Bhandi dynasty had Lhasa ( Tibet ) kingdom was a strong opposition . In 841 A.D. , the Tibetan rule was in turmoil . Which enabled Devpal and Boj –first ( Kanoj ) to take control of Himalaya and it is also possible that Devpal must have taken control of Nepal and on his own or with support of Bhoj – first , Basantdev of Katyuri dynasty must have taken control of Kedarkhand . This way it can be assumed that Katyuri dynasty must have been established in 850 A.D. and appear to be logical .
Eight generations of Basantan , five generations of Salonaditya , thirteen generations , if considered successive rulers and if we assume six rulers in one century , then the rule of thirteen Katyuri – kings must have been between 850 A.D. and 1050 A.D. The inscriptions may also be of this period . But southern neighbor of Katyauri kings Pratihar Bhoj – first ( 836 – 892 A.D. ) , Mahenderpal – first ( 892- 914 A.D. ) and Mahipal – first ( 914 – 945 A.D. ) had been strong rulers . One doubt arises as to how that time Kasturi dynasty being the rulers of Hastibal and Urastabal , had command over a state of plains ( Present Ruhelkhand and Merut Commisionery ) and how Kedarkhand could remain aloof from the Influence of the Pratihars . If we consider that after Mahipal ( 914-945 a.d. ) , Kasturi' s power had increased , then we may assume the rule of this dynasty from 950 - 1150 a.d. But it lags behind , if we consider the script . It is undoubtedly correct . But we will have to consider the from Basantan ( 850 – 870 a.d ) to Eshtagana ( 930 – 947 a.d. ) , Pratihars , have to be accepted the feudal lords . Though no where any thing is mentioned about these kings .
Insriptions
One stone inscription and five copper inscriptions of the Katyuri rule has been found . The places are – Pandukeshwar , Katikeyapur , Bageshwar and Baleswar . As per the first three inscriptions the Katyuri dynasty was as follows :-
( 1 ) Basantan ( Sajyanara ) ( 2 ) Adhidhej ( Laudadh ) ( 3 ) Tribhuwan Raj ( 4 ) Niwart ( Nashar ) ( 5 ) Ishtagana ( Vemu ) ( 6 ) Lalitsur ( Laya )
As per the remaining three inscriptions , the Katyuri dynasty was as following :- ( 1 ) Salonaditya ( Singhbali ) ( 2 ) Echat ( Sindhu ) ( 3 ) Deshete ( Padmal )
Comparision of Pal and Katyari inscriptions
Both traditionally use the Kutil script . Which is found in writings and Tibetan inscription on copper of Pal dynasty during 9 th and 10 th century . Both are same Katyuri dyanasty . In four inscriptions of both order , the capital is Kartikeypur . There are less chances that Bhudev must have changed the old capital ( of the time of Lalitpur ) Kartikupur . But Subhiksrau has called his father Devat's capital Kartikeypur as Subhikashpur . Shaliwahan was the first man of both the dyanasty . When through out India Vikrami calendar was more popular , but in Himachal Shak calendar was used . It matters most literally and historically . In Himanchal , even now Shak calendar is used primarily . The rajputs and doti of Nepal also consider themselves as of the dynasty Shaliwahan . Although there are lot of difference in the dynasty of Doti and Ascot , but names are similar .
Katyuri Bravery
Basantan is important being the founder of Katyuri dyanasty . He displaced the Bhot Rule and established own rule , is enough to verify his bravery and skill . In the tenth century , Lalitsur with the help of his army of Hastibal , Ustrabal and army on horses , could have won the northern Bhot and Southern Pratihars because they become weak . In the Pal scriptures , the founder of the dynasty ' Gopal ' has been simile of Prathu . Lalitsur was also given the same simile . This was the proof of his bravery . In the inscription of the time of Devapal , Tibetiya has described by names of Bhot and Lahsa . It is possible that Bhudev ( 969 – 980 a.d. )son of Lalitsur , has described about his own best friend Kiratputra , in the inscription of Bageswar , he must be some Tibeti feudal lord or must some Kirat feudal lord of the area near Bageswar .
Katyuri Shak
It has already been described that the original man Shaliwahan of Katyuri's in the dynasty of Doti and Askot . In the two dynasty of Garhwal ( Wiliams and Almora ) , King Shaliwan are the eighth and eleventh king . Though Andhra is the name of Satwahno , who was a rival and relative of Shaks . But the way Shakabd of Shaks could be called Shaliwahan , likewise Shaliwahan could be used as synonym of Shaks . The idol of sun deity of Shak and Katyuri is same which were at Gopeswar , Katarmal , Baijnath , Bageswar and Dwarhat . Therefore Shak and Katyuri were of the same dynasty or caste . ( Himalaya Parichay – 1 , Rahul Sanskrytyan ) .
Brahaman converted from budhist
Customarily Basudev ( 850 A.D. ) has been said to be the founder of Katyuri dynasty . He populated Kartikpur ( Joshimat of present ) . It was alleged that Basudev became a Brahman after leaving the Buddhist religion . In the Katyuri inscription , Basudev has not been mentioned in the thirteen kings . If we consider Basudev as Basantan ( First Katyuri ruler ) and then he must contemporary of Kanoj King Bhoj first and Pal dynasty Vigrahpal . Jagatguru Shankarachary ( World teacher ) , Basudev and Basantan may also be contemporary . According to Dr. Shambhu Prasad Bahuguna , Shankaracharya reached Himwant in the 7th century . It is proved by the customs that Shankaracharya reached this part of the land and it is clear that he must have reached during the time of Basantan or Basudev . Therefore , it is false to assume that Shankaracharya drove out Buddhist from India or from this place . From the various Lord Shiva temple found in the area Himalayas , it can be assumed the population must have been the follower of Lord Shiva . Therefore , here there was ' Maheswar Sampradaya ' ( Lakusheeya ) dynasty was present . In the time of Gujjar Pratihar , North India was under their influence . Besides in the inscriptions of Katyuri Dynasty , ' Param Maheswar ' ( Supreme followers of Lord Shiva ) has been inscribed and discovery of idol of Lord Shiva , they are connected with Maheswar ( Lakusheeya dynasty ) Community . At that time Sindh – Mulatanpur had been under Mogul rule and for a century the interest of brahamans and Buddhist were damaged . But the Kashmir area of Himalaya , was the fort of Buddhist where valuable Sanskrit text was translated in to Tibetan language . In the 9th century , the symptoms of decay of Mahabodh Dharam ( Buddhist religion ) are found . Therefore , allegation on Shankaracharya appear to be false . It is possible that after decentralization of the power of Tibetan empire , its influence on Kedarkhand gradually reduced and for attaining power , there was fierce battle between Bhot Shatriya and native feudal lords . That time , due to weakness of the Buddhist rulers , the Buddhist religion also decayed , and seeing this situation , Basudev or Basantan must have given up Buddhist religion and must have taken shelter of Brahaman religion . From historical circumstances , it is found that in the 9 th century , Buddhist religion was widely propagated , but in Garhwal – Kumoun , the archeological remains of Buddhist religion are not found . In Baijnath ( Amora ) , the idol which is said to be of Buddha , that is not his , but is of Kuber of Bhairav . The inner discontent and destruction of the villages and cities , may be the reason that no idol has been found in Kumoun – Garhwal . After seeing many Buddhist sanctuary , it is doubted that the idols are made of metal and wood in place of stone .
Last Days of Katyari Dynasty
Veerdev is considered to be last ruler o Katyari dynasty . Though his name is not found in the inscriptions and not in the Kayuari Dynasty documents . Even then Parmar call him the last ruler of Katyuri dynasty . His rule was cruel and painful . It is described in the in the Dev Ahawan ( God Prayer ) which is sung at the time of Kumaouni God is said to have come on the head . Similarly , there are other people's sayings . One of those say that he had kept his sister-in-law Tilotama ( ' Bhoji , tile dharu, bola – song ) . His subject were under great distress under his rule . One day King Veerdev fell into a ditch and died . After his death , Katyuri dynasty fragmented and was divided in to various branches . First of all , Brahamdev took over the rule of Kumoun ( Kali Zone ) and possibly second Jaithi branch started ruling at Doti . Third branch , started ruling Askot , Suin . Forth started its rule at Baramandal ( Almora ) . The fifth branch became the ruler of Baijnath Temple ( Kathuriyan ) and Danpur Zone . The sixth branch ruled Dwarhat and Lakhanpur and the kingdom of Garhwal , also was distributed amongst many Katyuri rulers . It is found by the historical customs . Perhaps , Garhwal had chosen a spate path much before .
Many Rulers
( 1 ) Ashokchall ( 1191 A.D. )
As per the record of the dynasty , Trilokpal became the ruler after Veerdev . He was the last Katyuri king . His eldest son Niranjandev remained in ' Doli' and younger son Abhayapal ( 1279 A.D. ) went to Askot ( Almora ) . It is found from the inscriptions that in 1191 A.D. Ashokchall conquered the land of Katyuri's . Mohmad Gouri destroyed his neighbors Gahadwaron of Kanoj state after two years . The victory of Ashokchall is confirmed from the two inscriptions found . Out of which one is inscribed on the 16 feet long iron trident at Gopeshwar and the second is 21 feet long metal trident at Badahat ( Uttarkashi ) . It is known by these that in 12th century Ashokcall ruled land from the river Alaknanda up to Bhagirathi and all Kedarkhand land . Which means the present Pauri Garhwal , Tehri Garhwal , Chamoli Garhwal and Uttarkashi districts . Besides the splendid metallic idol of Gunge ( Western Mansarovar ) which was got constructed by the Bhot king of Lord Buddha , even now is worshipped as of Datatreya . It is clear that , in the beginning of the 11th century the Bhagirathi river tributary up to Malyana was under the rule of Kayuri kings . These inscriptions have been described in detail by Atkins . Ashokchall was also known by the name of ' Anekmall ' .
( 2 ) Richalldev ( 1223 A.D. )
After 32 years of Anekmall ( Ashokchall ) , it was known a new victor Challdev arrived in Kumoun and it is confirmed from the history of Nepal that Richalldev was Nepali . During the rule of Thakurs , number of persons became kings in Nepal , who belonged to the small hamlets . At Kantipur ( Kathmandu ) , there were 13 kings . Which was called the Jhinmith dynasty . These Thakurs constructed number of Buddhist sanctuaries . The inscription about Richalldev is inscribed in the copper plate on the north of Baleswar . In which the writings of Katyuri King Dashatdev has been inscribed . In this inscription , Richalldev has been lavishly praised . In this way the Kayuri rule and the dynasty , got fragmented and now their memory is confined to some copper inscription and stone inscriptions . Therafter Panwar dynasty was established and Panwar Kings took over the reign of the kingdom . All these inscription are in Sanskrit and in it Katyuri dynasty has been lavishly praise .
Panwar Dynasty
After the fragmentation of Kayuri rule and decay of the powers of the rulers , control of the whole Garhwal to number of rulers and kings . Katyuri's were also were Shak or Khas . Therefore , this place became a Khas Mandal ( Khas Zone ) . The rulers , Thakurs , remained busy in fighting one another and looting . On the one hand , rulers in the hills like Painkhand use to rob the rulers of Sugarh ( Nagpur ) , on the other hand they themselves were used to be robbed by the Bhot in habitants in the North . One Thakur King was not inclined to see the subjects of other Thakur King , neither he liked to punish the people of his own who used to rob others . Pandit Harikrishana Raturi wrote in his bood History of Garhwal , that there were 52 Garh ( Fort ) in Garhwal which resulted in calling Bawani Garhwal ( Garhwal of 52 forts ) of Khas zone of Kedarkhand . He has given the details of these forts .
Details of Dynasty
Though credit for bringing all these 52 forts under one rule goes to Panwar dynasty , but the details of the dynasty are also found elsewhere . Out which , the oldest was found by Hadewick in 1796 A.D. The details of dynasty found by Breeket was of the year 1849 A.D. which was found in Almora . But the details of the dynasty given by Pandit Harikrishna Raturi , is considered more authentic . In all these details of dynasty , poetic literature of ' Manodeya ' written by Bharat Jyotirai , who considered Manshah grandson of Ajaipal and son of Sahajpal , has been considered as most authentic . The poet was contemporary of Manshah ( 1547 – 1608 A.D. ) , original man was Kanakpal . His another name was Gang and it is mentioned in history of Saharanpur . It has been mentioned that coins found were bearing the name of Kanishk or Janaka . Raturi has quoted some Pandit ( Knower of knowledge ) who was dependent on the ruler – " Bhanupratap was the father-in-law of Kanakpal . Bhanupratap was the king of this state and he was more powerful than the king of 52 forts . He married his eldest daughter with Rajpal son of King of the Kumoun and married his youngest daughter to with king Kanakpal of Panwar dynasty . The same dynasty is still ruling in Garhwal . Second school of thought says that Kanakpal married the daughter of Sonpal , the king of Bhilang , who was the king of western part of upper Garhwal . It is still not certain that where Kanakpal was actually married . From the fore goings , it can be assumed that , the history of Panwar dynasty starts with Ajaipal who was not before Manshah 7 century before , but as per ' Manodaya' Sahajpal father of Manshah has been considered to be the king and Balbhadrashah who was in between Sahajpal and Manishah , is doubtful . One alms letter of the year 1547 A.D. of Manshah has been found . Therefore , the time period of Ajaipal appears to be 1500 A.D. In ' Manodaya' Manshah time period has been said to be 1547-1608 A.D. , but details of dyanasty given by Raturi and Bricket give this period to be 1591-1610 A.D .
Assault by Taimurlang
Taimur attacked Delhi and other places for robbing money – property and not for expansion of his kingdom . At that time the King of Garhwal was Baharoj . Bharoj , Baroj , Veerdutt , Brahamdutt etc name can come out from this word Baharoj which was written in Naskh script . Historians while writing about Taimur , has written that he had a very large army . Which means that Garhwal was under a rule of a power at least 100 years before Ajaipal . Besides the ruler was having a prime place amongst the kings of India . Taimur has written " Hindus were defeated , some of them ran towards the forest in order to save their life and some were arrested . Immense money , property , cows , buffalo , women , children , elephants , horses was obtained . " Taimur that night only , returned to his camp and next day after travelling five kosh reached Bahara and the third day went to Sarsawa . Perhaps , Taimur did not enter the interior of Himalayas. In Doon ' Nawada ' has been called to be old capital of Garhwal . One Garhwali saying indicates that Garhwali's fought a battle with Nadirshah at Bandarbhel . Nadirshah did not advance towards the hills . It is possible that people considered Taimur as Nadirshah , as Taimur also did not go ahead of Banderbhel .
Kings of Panwar Dynasty
Ajaipal ( 1493-1547 A.D.) – Amongst the Panwar Dynasty kings , Ajaipal is considered to be the first king . In ' Manodaya ' astrologer Baratrai has written about the king Ajaipal – " King Ajaipal who was like Yudhistar remains firm in battle , the eldest brother of pandu's , was born in Chandravansh (Chandra dynasty ) and who only by announcement of his name , used to break the mental balance of the opponents . " As per Rai Bahdur Patiram , above description of the poet , was written after three generation of King Ajaipal . Garhwal was unified from the north snow covered mountains , in south Chandi ( Hardwar ) and in west east of Jamuna upto Badhan . The land area so far known as Kedarkhand was rechristened to Garhwal from this time only . King Ajaipal was an efficient and sober ruler , who demarcated his kingdom and administrative reforms were implemented . He divided the kingdom in zones and he was known to be a person who loved architecture and art . Ajaipal had to also fight the king of Kumuon who was his contemporary . After initial defeats , he was victorious later . He changed the capital of his kingdom from Chandpur ( 1512 A.D. ) to Devalgarh . At Develgarh , king Ajaipal established a temple of Goddess Jagdamba . It has been written on the podium below the temple – ' Raja Ajaipal Ko Bhandari Karo' – which means that King Ajaipal be given treasures . It also confirms the possibility of Devalgarh being his capital . Garhwali language was the official language of Panwar dynasty . In 1517 A.D. , in order to have a plain and central place for the capital of the kingdom , Srinagar was made the capital of the kingdom .Most of the places of Srinagar , how ever , were washed away by the flood of Birahi Ganga in 1814 A.D. In the complete kingdom of the Panwar dynasty , Garhwali language was spoken and was popular .
Sahajpal ( 1548 -1551 A.D. ) – King Sahajpal was the son and heir of King Ajaipal . He was great politician and religious king . He offered a bell at the Raghunath Temple ( Devprayag ) in 1566 A.D. ( Shak 1582 ) .
Balbhadra Shah ( 1581-1591 A.D. ) – He was an illustrious king and Moguls used to respect him . He was the first ruler of Garhwal who adopted the title of Shah and this custom continued . He maintained good relations with Katyuri king Sukhdev . He improved the palace at Srinagar and enacted land rules and financial rules .
Manshah ( 1591-1611 A.D ) - After Balbhadrashah , Manshah ascended the throne , being the heir . In his kingdom only , Bharat poet in his praise wrote ' Manodaya' , a Sanskrit poetic literature . Evidence of which is found in Raghunath Temple at Devprayag . Manshah ruled for about 19 years successfully and at the age 34 years died . He was the only successful king after king Ajaipal who conquered Tibet and ensured safety of Garhwal . After Ajaipal , he was the second ruler who conquered Tibet and after obtaining golden vessel from Chaprang Mana Tibet established at Ukhimath Temple ( Rudrprayag ) .
Shyamashah ( 1611-1624 A.D. ) - He was a self respecting king . There is one Garhwali proverb – ' Shyamshah Kolai , Sammi Ta Sammi , Bangi Ta Bangi ' – which means – Shyamshah was a self respecting king , like a pine tree . He remained straight with straight person and hard with hard person . He was praised by Mogul historians and he was contemporary to Emperor Jahangir . He used to respect learned person of the state . Molaram has written about the time of Shyamshah and many other Kings in his book ' Garhrajyavansh Ka Itiahs ( History of kings of Garhwal and their dynasty ) ' . In his rule only ' Vastushiromani ' has been written by Shankarguru .
Mahipatshah ( 1624-1631 A.D. ) - He was a brave and great politician . He has been praised in ' Garvbhanjan ' . He ruled up to Sirmor in south west . Raturi has given his time of rule as 1629 – 46 A.D. But one alms collection box of his is found to be of 1652 A.D. Therefore his time period is under doubt . He enabled the rule of Kumoun Trimalchand to recover his kingdom . He was follower of Shakt sect and he breathed his last in the battle ground . His many brave army commanders like Rikhola Lodi , Madhosing Bhandari , Banwari Das Tanwar , Dost Beig are immortal even now . Rikhola had tiff with Genral Jorawar Singh who was a Dogra victor . Madhosing is praised in a proverb- ' Ek Singh Van Ka Singh , Ek Singh Gaya Ka , Ek Singh Madhosingh aur Singh Kahe Ka ' – which means that one lion is of forest , one lion is of cow , one lion is Madhosing and why do we require any other lion . Besides the tunnel and drinking water way constructed by Madhosing is well known to day also . This king had a large kingdom .
Prithivishah ( 1631 – 1640 A.D. ) – Prithivishah was only seven years of age when historically famous mother Queen Karanwati assumed the rule and defeated Mogul commander ' Nazawat Khan ' in 1635 A.D. and became famous with the name of ' Nak-Kati-Rani ' ( Queen whose nose is chopped off ) in the history . In her period only Dehradun city was populated and she constructed many temples and water storage places ( Bawari ) . She remained very popular . When Prithivishah attained adulthood , he wanted to increase the western border of Garhwal , but failed . At last once he had tiff with Mogul emperor Humaun but he was forced to enter into a treaty on his own conditions at Srinagar. When Emperor Shahanjahan was imprisoned by Aurengzeb , son of Shahanjahan , Dara Shikoh was fighting at Lahore , but he did not leave either his son Suleman Shikoh . Suleman Shikoh after fleeing reached Garhwal , where he was welcomed . But Aurengzeb got Suleman Shikoh in captivity and gave sanad ( Rights ) of Doon to Prithivishah .
Mednishah ( 1650 – 1684 A.D. ) - Medinishah from the very beginning was faithful to Aurengzeb and , therefore , he was not bothered about the external attacks . Molaram has written that Mednishah remained under the influence of Aurengzeb .
Fatehshah ( 1684- 1716 A.D. ) – Fatehshah gained the crown at the age 15 years . He was brave , courageous and knowledgeable ruler . He conquered Chandkot and Gibar and defeated Garhsar and expanded his rule up to Tibet . He was religious , fond of literature and art and in his rule , Hindu artist Shyamdas and Hardas came to Garhwal . It is said that poet Bhusan also came to Srinagar and the proof of it is found in book of Ratan poet ' Fatehshah ' . In his rule , Jatadhar poet wrote fatehprakash , karmgranth , Ratanpoet wrote Fatehshah and Prakash poet Sukhdev wrote Vratvichar ( Talk about fasts ) , karmgranth ( book on actions ) , and Matiram wrote Vratkomudi , chandrasar . Sureshanand Barthwal , Rewatram Dhasmana , Rudrdutt Kimothi , Haridat Nautiyal , Basavanand Bahuguna , Shashidhar Dangwal , Sukhdev Chandola , Kritiram Khetolla and Haridutt Thapliyal , were nine gems of his court . He fixed copper inscription in temples to enforce religious system . In his rule only , the Sikh Guru Ram Rai was given shelter in Khurbara , Rajpur and Chamsari ( Present Dehradun ) . The king also gave permission to build a gurudwara at Srinagar . He didn't have good relations with King Uddyotchand of Kumaon , after remaining some time there , he returned to Srinagar. He ruled for about 50 years and breathed his last thereafter . After his death his heir Upendrashah also expired after one year .
Pradeepshah ( 1717 – 1772 A.D. ) He was a minor and , therefore , his mother took control of the rule of the kingdom which has found mention in many of his alms letters . Mainly of ( 1 ) Jilas ( Jileshwar Mahadev ) – 1725 A.D. ( 2 ) Srinagar( Kapilmuni ) – 1734 A.D. ( 3 ) Chandrapuri ( MurliManohar ) – 1745 A.D. ( 4 ) Srinagar ( Kamleswar ) – 1753 A.D. Pradeepshah with the help of King of Kumoun faced Ruhella Pathans . But the destruction in Garhwal could not be avoided as was done in Kumoun by Ruhella . The captured thousands of male and females and made them slaves , and took along with them . They also reached the Neeti- Mana ( Village near Badrinath ) on the northern border of Garhwal . Even to day their cruelty is reflected in a Garhwali proverb – ' Nirbhagi Rayen Rahello-He Nishthur Rahello ' – which is abusing the Ruhella's and saying to them that they be without luck , as they are cruel . Many Garhwali folk songs also describe the cruelty done by Ruhella and one copper inscription found in Garhwal , mentions about coming of Ruhella attackers in northern India who were destroyed by the deputy prime minister of the state of Awadh with the help of British . Historian Williams describes the reign of Pradeepshah as peaceful and progressive .
Lalitshah ( 1772-1780 A.D. ) - During the reign of Lalitshah , Ruhello and Bugelsingh feudal lord , plundered Doon to the maximum possible extent . Foster wrote about it , the way they were honored and they forced others to honor them , I also felt that I should become a Sikh . Younger brother of Lalitshah , Pradumnashah got the kingdom of Kumoun , which confirms the plan of Pradeepshah of expansion of the kingdom and that he was a courageous king .
Jaikritshah ( 1780 – 1785 A.D. ) - The elder brother of Lalitshah was an eccentric but was ardent follower of the Lord Shiva . After ruling for only six years , suddenly he died . Due to inner conflict in his kingdom , his rule was unstable . Sikhs attacked Dehradun , Babhar and Salana , during his reign and created havoc .
Pradumanshah ( 1785 – 1804 A.D. ) - Lalitshah during his rule had put his son Pradumanshah as the ruler of the Kumoun . He ruled Kumoung for five years by the name of Pradumanshah . Thereafter , after the death of his elder brother Jaikritshah , he became the king at Srinagar , in 1786 A.D. . But then there were chain of events which caused immense instability in his kingdom . Gorkhas attacked , first time , in 1791 . In the east there was famine of 1795 A.D. . In 1803 A.D. , a destructive earthquake caused severe damage in his kingdom , in the midnight . There were severe differences amongst his officials and the coffer was empty . His army had gone weak and forced by battle with Gorkhas , Pradumanshah requested help from British . He sacrificed his life while fighting at Khurbura . He ruled for 18 years and at the age 30 , he established many landmarks during his rule . He was the last independent ruler of undivided Garhwal – Kumoun . It has been described in a play ' Ganika ' .
Gorakhyani ( The Rule Of Gorkhas )
Gorakhas were victorious in the battle with the forces of Pradumanshah in 1804 A.D. and their rule started . Molaram has described the state of destruction caused by Gorkha forces in detail in his book – Srinagar Durdash ( The bad state of Srinagar ) . He has described the rule of Gorkhas as the rule of plunder and snatching . They bought and sold Garhwali and Kumounis as slaves . They established a big slave market at Das Bazar in Haridwar . British writer Raper has written a eye-witness account of it – ' There was a Gorakha post at the root of the way to the wharf of the Hari-Ki-Pari , where slaves used to be displayed , for the purpose of selling them . These unfortunate men – women numbered about two lakh , having age from three to thirty years . It was definitely awful time of slavery . ' Frazer had also expressed his sorrow on this type of cruelty . The taxation policy of the Gorakhas was very bad . Molaram has written about it – ' The hairs of the farmers were uprooted after suffering the liability of taxes , even then they did not leave the state . O king of Gorkha ! I am great full to your sense of justice . Thank you Gorkhali king .' It has aptly described the full picture of self humiliation . Trel has also described in a passionate sense . The distressful rule of Gorkhas ( 1803 – 1815 A.D. ) , remained for twelve years . Hastidal and Bhaktithapa were their kings . It has been described that Srinagar remained the capital of the Garhwal during that time and and for administration sake Garhwal was divided in three parts and 24 zones . Chief administrator who was an army officer , used to stay at Srinagar , Chandpur fort and Langurfort . In the zones and subzones , nominated official were available . Taxes were deposited in the royal treasury and fines used to be pocketed by the officials . Small officials were the all in all of the zones . It was a grave exploitation and due to cruelty , people were deserting the villages . The rule of Hastidal in Garhwal was very cruel . But Garhwali people never opposed the cruelty of this human-demon . People of this place used the word of ' Gorakhya ' for a cruel person , one can sense the demonizing effect of Gorkha rule . Gorkhas treated the local population even worse than the animals , caused distress to their subjects and spread unrest . Meanwhile British also started expanding their rule . Gorakhas ruled Kumoun for 25 years and Garhwal for 12 years . Prasumanshah requested Britishers for help . British sent the army in October 1814 and defeated Gorkha forces . The king Garhwal Surdarshanshah could not pay the war expenses of Rs. seven lakh to the British , as asked by them , he , therefore , entered in to an agreement . According to this agreement , King Sudarshah handed over his half of the kingdom east of river Mandakini and Alaknanda . With the result that British established their rule in Kumoun and half of the Garhwal . King Sudarshanshah had already promised to hand over Dehradun and Chandi ( Bijnor ) , to Major Hiwasi , on victory in Garhwal . British divided Garhwal in two parts . They announced that most populated place in eastern Garhwal that the subjects east of Mandakini and Alaknanda river must consider themselves as the subject of British . Gardner was the first British commissioner of Kumoun - Garhwal and thereafter Trel was appointed . How ever till 1835 A.D. , Trel remained the all-in-all of this part of the land . It is said the company wanted to hand over the whole Garhwal to Sudarshanshah at the cost of Rs. Five lakh . But it was beyond the capability of Sudershanshah . Teheri area was declared to be under Sudershanshah , by a treaty of 4th March 1820 . Tehri was made the capital of the kingdom . That time , it was a village only . Simultaneously the capital of the British part of the kingdom was changed to Pauri from Srinagar , in 1840 A.D. . Because Srinagar had hot climate .
British Garhwal Rule
Commissioner Trel remained in charge of Garhwal – Kumoun from 1815 – 1823 A.D. . Meanwhile system of Patwaris ( Village land and police officer ) was started and in the year 1839 A.D. , Garhwal was declared a separate district after bifurcation from Kumoun Commissionaire . The charge of new district was given to and asst. commissioner / deputy commissioner . All district official and collector of taxes were used to remain in district head quarter . They were helped by 84 patwaris , one each for a patti , and supervising them were 6 kanungo . Every village had one chief ( Pradhan ) who used to collect revenue . Lambardar or mukhiya used to work under him . The work of pradhan was supervised by thokdar who were later given some power , but later were left for nominal work . In 1831 A.D. , there were five police stations and seven police post in the entire Garhwal . This are later was called British Garhwal .
Tehri Kingdom
Sudarshanshah ( 1815 – 1859 A.D. ) - After the Garhwal went in to the hands of Gorkhas , Prince Sudarshanshah started living at Jwalapur , Haridwar along with the whole royal family . He led a life with many difficulties . He also stayed at Bareli for two years . From there , he asked for the help from the Company government . In 1815 A.D. when the Gorkhas were defeated , British asked for five lakh of rupees as war expenses . But the king was helpless in this regard . Therefore , the kingdom was divided into Tehri Garhwal and British Garhwal , in two parts . British had established their capital at Srinagar . The retained possession of Doon valley and Jounsar Bahbar and formally demarcated the area in the east of Rawai Pargana in the Tehri kingdom and handed over to the ruler Sudarshanshah . Sudarshanshah was an efficient , able and people loving ruler . The panwar dynasty king made his capital in small habitat located at the confluence of Bhagirathi and Bhilangana , by the name of Tehri . He led a struggling life and opened many schools for the sake of development of the kingdom and established scholarship funds . He got constructed many motor roads which made the road communication easy . Royal treasures increase on account of trade practices . The king was a art lover , he provided royal shelter to many artist like Molaram , Chaitu , Manaku etc . He was himself lover of literature and poet . He created a poetic text with the name of ' Sabhagar '
( Place of assembly ) , in eight chapters by an anonymous name of Soorat . King himself was having command over Garhwali , Braj and Sanskrit languages . He was a religious king and reconstructed the temples of Badahat . Moor , a British traveler , who came to his kingdom has lavishly praised his ability and popularity . Dr. Bhaktdarshan has categorized him as able ruler . Popular and brave ruler died in 1859 A.D. .But in his lifetime only he had declared Bhawanishah as his successor .
Bhawanishah ( 1859-1871 A.D. ) - Shershah the eldest son of Sudershanshah declared him self the king when Sudershanshah died , even before last rites were to be done . The family animosity could be finished only with the help of meditation of British and Bhawanishah was crowned as king . Bhawanishah was a simple , impartial , spendthrift , religious and peace loving ruler . In his time the kingdom implanted policy of using the forests , cutting of the trees , policy of carrying the logs of wood with the help of the rivers were enforced on the advice of Wilson , an English man , and the kingdom was immensely benefitted , economically . In his time Bhawanishah went in to many religious pilgrimage , and restored destroyed temples and constructed new temples . He got opened Sanskrit and Hindi elementary school at Devprayag . He died at the age 45 years .
Pratapshah ( 1871-1886 A.D. ) – He was crowned at age only 20 years . He was a person who knew the languages Hindi , Pharsi and English well . He was equally efficient in management of administration . He always remained ready to serve his subjects . In his rule Pratap high school was established and one printing press was opened . He made his courts to expeditiously deliver the justice . For managing land , he started the measurement technique , named Juela . He improved the policing systems also . He got constructed two state highways in the Tehri kingdom . He stopped the traditions of giving to the King khain , pala ( Giving milk and curd to the King ) , vishah ( giving food grain ) etc wrong practices on the advice of the queen Guleria . Opposite Teheri , he founded a city by the name of Pratap Nagar and beautified the the kingdom . The king gave respect to the knowledgeable . Under guardianship , Poet Deshraj created ' Garhwal Raj Vanshavalli ' ( the details of the royal details of Grahwal kings ) . After about ruling for 15 years , he died in February 1886 A.D. .
Kirtishah ( 1886 – 1912 A.D. ) - At the time of death of his father King Pratapshah , the prince was of only 13 years . Under the guardianship of Queen mother Guleria , one council started looking after the affairs of the kingdom till Prince Kirtishah becomes an adult . Prince took over the reigns of the kingdom , once he attained the age of 18 years . Queen mother was religious and she sold her own ornaments and got constructed many temples and inns . Kirtishah started the work where his father Pratapshah had left and advanced them . He added higher classes to the Pratap High School . He established Cambel hostel and opened Habit Sanskrit Pathshala . The judicial courts were reorganized . He improved the state revenue system and founded the city of ' Kirtinagar ' . He localized the management of forests . He banned the custom of sacrifice of jhota ( Buffalo ) sacrifice and bedvarta ( an art which was risky and required to slide on a rope ) . He provided financial help for the marriages of girls and banned selling of girls . ' Bank of Garhwal ' was established in the state . A fortnightly publication named ' Riyasat Teheri Garhwal ' 'Gazette' was published . Under him , praise worthy action to develop Garhwali language was carried out . Kirtishah organized a all religion conference in 1872 A.D. in the state . He sent Swami Ramteerth to Japan to participate in all religion conference . After return Swamiji remained on wharf of the Bhiligana river and here only he took trance in the water . Kirtishah was progressive and he asked his minister Harikrshan Raturi to write the history of Garwal and narendra Hindu law . He him self helped financially in publication of ' Kedarkhand Granth ' . The king himself was proficient in many languages and was a legal expert . Impressed by his qualities he was made the member of the royal council and was awarded the title of Knight Commander Star of India by K.C.S.I. . He died at the age or 40 years . Bhaktdarshan , a patriot and scholar , consider him after giving importance to his character and spirituality , as sage king . The fighter of Tehri People Struggle , a journalist , wise independence fighter Satyaprakash Raturi classifies him amongst the Tehri kings as , who loved his subjects , lover of religion , fond of literature and one who served the hermits and saints .
Narendrashah ( 1913 – 1946 A.D. ) - He was the ruler next only to Sudarshanshah , to have ruled for a long time . When his father Kirtishah died , his age was only 15 years . Therfore, under the supervision of queen mother Guleri , a supervisory committee was formed . Harikrishan Raturi along with a British representative were member of committee . Meanwhile the prince obtained his education at Mayo College Ajmer . He was crowned at the age 21 years on the occasion of Vijai Dashmi ( A day which is celebrated through out India as victory of Lord Rama over Ravana the demon ) . British made him lieutenant and was decorated with the title of ' KCSI – Knight Commander Star of India ' and was given salute by 11 guns . Banaras University after considering his ability , experience and love for education honored him by bestowing the degree of L.L.D. . First of all he demarcated the states in the border area and eradicate the disputes . In order to improve the land use and its maintenance under land-management , he got the certified measurement of the land . He provided camps for the hill tribes of Telang , Harshil , Jadung at Tunda during winters . He established number of primary schools and enhanced Pratap postgraduate college . King himself used to formulate many developmental schemes and used to get these implemented . He founded the city of Narendra Nagar in his name . He got laid down many important roads for the development of his kingdom and sent his able officials and poor students to Forest Research Institute at Dehrdun for studying forest management . For the development of agriculture , he established agriculture banks . He stopped the custom of ' bara and berojgar ' in his kingdom , which were wrong practices . During his rein , magnificent palaces , building for secretariat , hospitals and many educational institute were constructed . For quick justice , he enforced the panchayat system . His rein was full of ups and downs . People were dissatisfied and the affect of the national opinion slowly increased . Prajamandal was established in Tehri . At Rawain , unarmed people were subjected to the bullet fire at the ground of Tilari . In absence of the King patriot Devsuman died in the prison after fasting for 84 days . The body was immersed in the Ganga . Student started a struggle and youth entered in to the INA of Subhash Bose . These were some of the events which were historic . King used to be most of the time religious travels and travel to foreign destinations . In his absence , the officials of the kingdom , arbitrarily started taking actions . Though the King's personal life was simple and peaceful . Often he used to speak the Garhwali language with the Garhwali's . Education loving King had his own special museum and library where many rare handwritten original books were kept . King used to respect the learned philosopher and ascetics . At last , after remaining unwell , he abdicated the throne on 26 May 1946 and declared his eldest son Manwendrashah as his successor . Narendrashah died in a motor accident .
Manwendrashah ( 1946 -1948 A.D. ) - Manwendrashah was the 60th and last king of the Panwar dynasty . Prince was educated in Indore and Mayo College Ajmer . Thereafter he got military training at Lahore and got Indian Adiministrative Education and then he took over the rule . By that time Prajamandal at Tehri , was firmly established . Feudal lord ship was openly challenged and the struggle between the nationalist forces and the forces kingdom was taking a shape of volcano . The farmer agitation was at heights . Prisoners were being sentenced . Nagendra Sakalani and Bholusing attained martyrdom at Kirtinagar and added fuel to the fire and the agitation became more violent , aggressive . A agriculture leader of Gramchora became the Prime minister of interim government for three days . Which took some important decisions . It was decided to pay attention to the learned writers and academicians . It was proposed to some reward best academician and academicians and planned to honor the them . On 29 August 1946 , the king and Prajamandal agreed for an agreement . Indian Government after Independence on 19 August 1947 , in order to make a prosperous , powerful republic , had decided to dissolve the princely states . The then king Manwendrashah had given his acceptance in writing of dissolving the state of Tehri . Therefore , Indian Govt. issued a notification on 1st August 1949 , signifying that Tehri state has been merged with the Uttarpradesh and with this the after ruling for 1061 years , the rule of Parmar dynasty ended .