Encyclopaedia on India

The Kunbi tribe, also known as Kudumbi, is one of the most prominent agrarian communities in India, primarily concentrated in Maharashtra and Gujarat. The word Kunbi translates to “farmer,” reflecting their historic and enduring connection with agriculture. Traditionally, they formed the backbone of cultivation in the central provinces, and while farming remains their primary occupation, many have diversified into other professions in recent times. Historical Roots and Migration The Kunbis are believed to have migrated into the Khandesh region from Gujarat after being displaced by Rajput tribes. From there, they spread into districts such as Wardha, Nagpur, and Berar. During the Gond rule, Kunbis held important administrative positions: Deshmukhs served as leaders, while Deshpandias acted as head accountants. These titles continue to be associated with Kunbi Families in Western India even today. Sub-Castes and Social Organization The Kunbi community is internally diverse, com...

Introduction The Mahabharata, one of the greatest epics of ancient India, narrates the fierce rivalry between two branches of the Kuru dynasty the Pandavas and the Kauravas. Though both descended from King Kuru, they embodied opposing values. The Pandavas , guided by virtue and justice, represented dharma (righteousness), while the Kauravas, led by Duryodhana, symbolized envy, greed, and ambition, aligning with adharma (unrighteousness). Their conflict culminated in the legendary Battle of Kurukshetra, a war that forever reshaped the destiny of Bharatavarsha (India). Etymology of Kaurava The term Kaurava broadly refers to all descendants of King Kuru, which technically includes both the Pandavas and the Kauravas. However, in common usage, it specifically denotes the hundred sons of King Dhritarashtra and Queen Gandhari, excluding the Pandavas, who were the sons of Pandu. Birth of the Kauravas Dhritarashtra, blind from birth, married Gandhari, the princess of Gandhara. Gandhar...

The Jaldhaka River is a remarkable watercourse that flows across three countries India, Bhutan, and Bangladesh binding together diverse landscapes and communities. Known for its geographical uniqueness, fertile basin, and developmental importance, the river plays a crucial role in sustaining agriculture, energy, and tourism in the region. Geography of the Jaldhaka River The Jaldhaka River can be geographically located at 27.0297° N latitude and 88.8747° E longitude. It originates from Kupup Lake (Bitang Lake), a glacial lake in southeastern Sikkim in the eastern Himalayas. This pristine source sets The River on a Journey that crosses multiple borders, making it a true trans-boundary river. Course of the River Length: About 192 kilometers Origin: Kupup Lake, Sikkim Formation: Created by the confluence of three streams Bindu Khola, Dudh Pokhri, and Jaldhaka at Bindu village in West Bengal. Path of the River: Forms a boundary between India and Bhutan. ...

Music has always been an inseparable part of Indian culture, serving as a powerful medium of expression across classical, folk, and contemporary traditions. Over centuries, musical instruments have evolved, blending ancient craftsmanship with modern innovations. The musical instruments of modern India reflect this journey, enriching performances across genres and adding vibrancy to the cultural heritage of the nation. Electric Guitar The Electric Guitar is one of the most popular string instruments in modern India. With steel-cored strings amplified through speakers, it produces powerful tones suitable for genres like rock, pop, and jazz. While most guitars have six strings, variations with more strings are also manufactured. Its versatility has made it a favorite among contemporary musicians. Acoustic Guitar The acoustic guitar projects melodies through its hollow body, relying on acoustic resonance rather than electronic amplification. Widely used in folk and light classica...

Introduction The Maratha Empire, founded by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, rose to prominence in the 17th and 18th centuries as one of the most powerful forces in India. Stretching from Attock in present-day Pakistan to Bengal in the east, the Marathas established a vast confederacy. Their history is marked by numerous battles against the Mughals, Afghans, and European powers, which shaped the destiny of medieval India. These battles not only reflected The Military Strength of the Marathas but also their determination to safeguard Hindu sovereignty and regional independence. Early Treaties and Expansion In 1717, a Mughal emissary signed a treaty with the Marathas, recognizing their authority in the Deccan. This marked the beginning of Maratha influence in Delhi. By 1718, their presence in northern India grew stronger. After the death of Balaji Vishwanath in 1721, his son Baji Rao I became Peshwa and shifted the capital back to Pune from Raigad. Baji Rao I’s campaigns were instru...

Introduction Among the many tribal communities of Maharashtra, the Halba tribe stands out for its distinctive identity and cultural richness. Their settlements are not confined to Maharashtra alone; they are also Spread Across Madhya Pradesh , Chhattisgarh, and Odisha. In Chhattisgarh, Halbas are particularly concentrated in districts such as Raipur, Durg, and Bastar. Recognized as a Scheduled Tribe under the Indian Constitution, the Halbas are regarded as one of the more progressive and affluent tribal groups, largely due to their ventures into agriculture and land ownership. Population Growth and Etymology The Halba population has witnessed remarkable growth over the decades. In Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh, their numbers rose from 7,205 in 1971 to 242,819 in 1981, marking a 35-fold increase within just ten years. The name “Halba” itself carries etymological importance. Derived from the word Hal, meaning “plough,” it reflects their traditional occupation of cultivation and fa...