Madhya
Pradesh at a Glance
Madhya
Pradesh, in its present form, came into existence on November 1,2000 following
its bifurcation to create a new state of Chhattisgarh.The undivided Madhya Pradesh
was founded on November 1, 1956.Madhya Pradesh, because of its central location
in India, has remained a crucible of historical currents from North, South,
East and West.
Paleolithic, Mesolithic, Neolithic, Chalcolithic and Iron Age Cultures have
flourished in the state along Narmada Valley and other river valleys. Rich archaeological
wealth has been unearthed in various parts of the state throwing light on its
history.
Evidences of earliest human settlements have been found in Bhimbethika and other
places of Raisen district. Over 600 rock shelters have been discovered in Bhimbethika.
About 500 caves have rock paintings, which depict the life of pre-historic cave-dwellers.
Sanchi in Raisen district is a world renowned Buddhist centre known for its
stupas, monuments, temples and pillars dating from 3rd century B.C. to 12th
century A.D.
The
most famous Sanchi stupa was built by the Mauryan Emperor Ashoka, then governor
of Ujjain. Bhojpur, in the same district is famous for its incomplete but marvelous
Shiva temple, built by legendary Parmar King of Dhar, Raja Bhoj (1010-53).Khajuraho
in Chhatarpur district is renowned the world over for its unique temples. Built
by Chandela rulers from 950-1050 A.D., in a truly inspired burst of creativity
these temples are a unique gift to the world. Orchha in Tikamgarh district is
a medieval legacy in stone built by Bundela rulers in the 16th and 17th centuries.
This land is hallowed by the memories of the great warrior Chhatrasal who illumined
the pages of history by his heroic deeds.Madhya Pradesh has a number of important
pilgrimage centres. While Ujjain and Omkareshwar have special significance due
to Shrines having two of the twelve jyotirlingas, Maheshwar, Mandleshwar, Amarkantak,
Hoshangabad are also important in their own rights.
Madhya Pradesh has produced great men and women who are held in high esteem
due to their great deeds. India's immortal poet-dramatist Kalidas belonged to
Ujjain and great musician Tansen to Gwalior. Bravery of great women like Durgawati,
Avantibai, Kamlapati and Devi Ahilya Bai is inscribed in golden letters in history.In
the freedom struggle, many movements were successfully launched in Madhya Pradesh
coinciding with the Non-Cooperation Movement and Quit India Movement. Flag Satyagraha
of Jabalpur in 1923, Salt Satyagraha of 1930 in Jabalpur and Jangle Satyagraha
started by tribals are the notable movements. Almost all parts of the state
were active in freedom struggle, though at different times.
Madhya Pradesh is the second largest Indian state in size with an area of 308,000
sq. kms
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