Historical Facts about Gujarat

The state of Gujarat is located on the western coast of India between Rajasthan and Maharashtra. The state is very popular for its Rann of Kachch, enchanting mountains, holy places and divine culture. It has grown into a famous tourist spot substantially over the years. Moreover, the state has a very extensive and interesting history; one can trace the Harappan Civilization and coastal trading ports between 2400 to 1900 BC. The Harappan civilization was followed by Gujarat,  Delhi sultanates, the British and Mughals. Although, the state is best known as the birthplace of the Father of the Nation, i.e., Mahatma Gandhi. 

Learning historical facts about Gujarat

Below are some ancient historical facts about Gujarat that you must know to explore more about the cultural state.

• The inheritance of Gujarat consists of temples, palaces, architecture and mansions. It has many bird-watching sites and a few wildlife sanctuaries. Ancient Gujarat reflects some eminent chapters of Indian History. 
• The state began developing its History from the beginning of the Indus civilization, led by the Muslim rulers of central Asia. 
• Moreover, the Indus Valley civilization traces the epigraphy of ancient Gujarat in its historical relics. It is often known as the Harappan civilization that existed between 3300 to 1700 BC.
• Harappan Gujarat was an essential trading hub from immemorial times. In addition, the Bharuch port of ancient Gujarat, with its strategic values, was also a major trading port. The Maurya and Gupta period led to the dominance of the Bharuch port in Gujarat in the early 5th century. 
• In the 6th century, after the repulsion of the Gupta empire, the Gujarat state came into control of successive Hindu Kings. 
• During the reign of Mauryas, the grandson of Chandragupta Maurya, i.e., Emperor Ashoka, passed an order to engrave his edict at Junagadh. He also announced the irrigation network to be set up during his ruling period in Gujarat. 
• After the repulsion of the Gupta empire, the Senapati Bhatarka distanced himself from the Guptas to set up his kingdom in 470 AD, i.e., Maitrak Kingdom. 
• At the time of the Miatrak Kingdom a, Chinese philosopher and traveller Huien Tsang 
• During the reign of Dhruvasena, the great Chinese philosopher and  traveller Huien Tsang came to India in 640 AD. Although, the Pratihara dynasty played an important role in the success of the Maitrak Kingdom. 
• The Solanki were the rulers of ancient Gujarat from 960 AD to 1243 AD. The Muslim conquests of Gujarat and India began in 1026. 

Learning the facts about Gujarati culture 

Gujarat, the vibrant and diversified state of India, has a significant contribution to developing the cultural aspect of the state. The amiability and sheer simplicity of the Gujaratis contributed to building the flourishing community. Gujarat symbolizes architecture, heritage, culture and vibrant art apparent in the lives of locals. Although the diversity that one witnesses in the state results from several ethnic groups representing Gujarat’s population, including Dravidian and Indic groups. Learn more about the facts of Gujarati culture from the description below-

• Art and Culture 

The broad array of handcrafted products representing the Gujarati art forms is a well-known entity worldwide. It includes embroidered garments, jewellery, furniture, metalwork, mirrors, and baked clay articles. It serves as a producer of elegant and creative furnishings consisting of quilts, table mats and cushion covers. 

• Music

Gujarat’s folk music is famous as Sugam Sangeet, attaining worldwide fame. The Gujarati folk music uses a wide range of musical instruments: manjira, ektara, zanz pot drum, dhol, prabhati, ektaro and hattho. Even the bhajans also incorporate folk songs, including the Bardic tradition. 

• Dance forms 

Gujarati people are always amiable and enthusiastic about their several dance traditions. Their culture’s four main dance forms include Garba, Dandiya Raas, Garbi and Padhar. 

1.    Garba- Garba is the most popular dance form of Gujarati culture. The Gujarati women perform the Garba information. The females dance to the tune of the Garba with reverence for the divinity feminine form. 
2.    Dandiya Raas- Both male and female participants of the Gujarati community perform the Dandiya Raas. They use the bamboo sticks, also known as Dandiyas, to devotion to Lord Krishna. Dandiya Raas formed its roots in the ancient period when Gopis used to play it for their lord. 
3. Garbi- Only Gujrati men play Grabi with dhol and manjiras
4. Padhar- Padhar is another tribal dance form of Gujarati culture performed near Nalsarovar lake by the Padhar community. 

What are the unique things from Gujarat? 

Apart from its ancient history and rich culture, the state has some unique facts you can learn about. Below are some Unique things from Gujarat that have made it India’s most visited state. 

• Largest Coastline – Gujarat covers the largest coastline, spread over 1600 km. 
• Amul- Gujarat is a hub of India’s largest dairy-producing brand, i.e., Amul. The owners started the dairy in 1946. Any follower of the brand can visit this place.
• Gira falls- The Gira fall’s cool mist amazes its visitors. Many suggest that the overwhelming view of the Gira falls enough to draw your attention. 
• Greenest city- The state capital of Gujarat, Gandhinagar is covered with around 50% greenery that makes the air as pure as possible. 

Conclusion 

Stretching out on the Arabian sea with the largest coastline of around 1215km, Gujarat is famous as the home state of Mahatma Gandhi. The state is quite popular for its exciting beaches, historic capital and temple towns. The state was gifted with beautiful art and culture like Garba, Dandiya raas, padhar and Garbi. In addition,some unique things from Gujarat – the largest coastline, and huge production of Amul dairy products sets it apart.