Bihar boasts a rich and ancient past, evolving through significant periods to its present-day form.
Ancient Bihar: A Cradle of Empires and Religions
The plains of Bihar were home to various kingdoms during the early Vedic period (c. 1500-600 BCE). The Videha Kingdom in north Bihar, ruled by King Janaka, finds mention in the Ramayana. Further east lay the kingdoms of Anga and Magadha.
By the 6th century BCE, Bihar became the epicenter of transformative religious and political movements. Gautam Buddha attained enlightenment in Bodh Gaya, establishing Buddhism. Simultaneously, Mahavira was born in Vaishali, propagating Jainism.
Magadha rose to prominence, evolving into a powerful empire. Its capital, Pataliputra (modern Patna), became a major center of Indian civilization. Dynasties like the Haryanka, Nanda, and the Maurya ruled vast territories from here. The Mauryan Empire, under rulers like Chandragupta Maurya and Ashoka, marked a golden age, unifying much of the Indian subcontinent. Bihar also became a hub of learning with renowned universities like Nalanda and Vikramashila.
Medieval Bihar: A Period of Transition
Following the decline of the Gupta Empire, Bihar witnessed the rise and fall of various regional powers. The Pala Dynasty held sway for several centuries, followed by other local kingdoms.
The 12th century marked a significant turning point with the invasion of Bakhtiyar Khilji, a general of the Delhi Sultanate. This invasion led to the destruction of major Buddhist centers and universities, contributing to the decline of Buddhism in the region.
Bihar subsequently came under the control of the Delhi Sultanate and later the Mughal Empire. During the Mughal period, Patna emerged as an important trading center. A notable figure was Sher Shah Suri, an Afghan ruler from Sasaram, who briefly established the Sur Empire in the 16th century and undertook significant administrative and infrastructural reforms, including the Grand Trunk Road.
Modern Bihar: From Colonial Rule to Statehood
In the 18th century, Bihar, along with Bengal, came under British East India Company rule following the Battle of Buxar (1764). The British consolidated their power, and Bihar remained part of the Bengal Presidency until 1912.
Bihar played a significant role in India’s struggle for independence. The Champaran Satyagraha of 1917, led by Mahatma Gandhi, marked a crucial early movement against British oppression. Bihar also witnessed active participation in the Quit India Movement of 1942.
In 1912, Bihar and Orissa were carved out as separate provinces. Later, in 1936, Bihar became a distinct province. After India’s independence in 1947, Bihar became a constituent state. In 2000, the southern part of Bihar was separated to form the new state of Jharkhand.
Present-day Bihar is a state with a vibrant cultural heritage and a significant place in India’s history. It continues to grapple with socio-economic challenges while striving for progress and development, drawing strength from its rich past.