The History of Nagpur: From Prehistoric Times to the Bhosale Dynasty

Nagpur, the city we know today, is rich with history and culture that goes back thousands of years.

It has witnessed different phases of human development, from the early days of prehistoric times, through ancient mythology, to the rule of powerful dynasties like the Bhosale family. Each phase of history has shaped Nagpur into the city it is now.

We will take a journey through these important phases, starting from the prehistoric period and moving through the Bhosale dynasty’s rule.

Prehistoric Nagpur: A Land of Early Settlements

Stone Age and Early Tools

Nagpur's history goes back to the Stone Age, a period when human beings used stone tools for survival. This period, known as the prehistoric period, can be divided into three phases: the Stone Age, the Copper Age, and the Iron Age.

In the Stone Age, human beings lived by hunting animals and gathering food from plants. The region around Nagpur, particularly areas like Kalameshwar and Navegaon, has yielded a significant number of tools from this period.

These tools were mainly made of stone and were used for hunting, cutting, and other daily survival activities. Archaeologists have discovered these tools in various parts of Nagpur, showing that the region was inhabited by early human beings.

The tools found from this time are simple in design but were very important for the people who used them. These early settlers were nomadic, moving from one place to another in search of food and shelter.

They lived in caves and temporary shelters made of natural materials like branches and leaves.

The Copper Age and Advancements in Technology

After the Stone Age, human beings began to develop better tools. This marked the beginning of the Copper Age.

During this period, stone tools were slowly replaced with tools made of copper. Copper was a much stronger material and could be shaped into more effective tools for hunting and farming. This period is also significant because it marks the beginning of settled life. People started to form small communities and began farming.

They no longer had to rely entirely on hunting and gathering for food.

In the Nagpur region, many copper weapons and tools have been found. These include knives, spearheads, and other implements that were used for both hunting and farming.

More than 400 copper weapons have been found near Nagpur, indicating that this region was rich in copper and that people were skilled in metalworking.

The Iron Age and Permanent Settlements

The next major phase in human development was the Iron Age. In this period, people started using iron to make tools. Iron is even stronger than copper, which allowed people to make better tools for farming and warfare.

By this time, people had started to live in permanent settlements, farming the land and raising animals. The Iron Age saw the rise of more complex societies, with rules and leadership structures.

In Nagpur, archaeological digs have revealed many iron tools. These tools were used in farming, building, and everyday life. Settlements from this time have been found near Koradi, Kohli, Gondighogar, and other nearby areas. These early communities built stone houses, some of which still stand as protected monuments today.

Mythology of Nagpur: Legends and Ancient Tales

Nagpur is not only important for its prehistoric history but also for its connection to ancient Indian mythology. Many ancient texts and legends mention the region of Vidarbha, which includes Nagpur. These stories are an important part of Nagpur’s cultural and historical identity.

The Origins of Vidarbha

The region of Vidarbha, where Nagpur is located, is mentioned in many ancient Indian texts, including the Aitareya Brahmana and the Mahabharata. Vidarbha was known as a kingdom of skilled hunters and warriors.

According to legend, the region got its name from a person named Vidarbha, a member of the ancient Yadava dynasty. The Yadavas were an ancient tribe that ruled parts of central India, and Vidarbha is said to be one of their most important regions.

In the epic Mahabharata, Vidarbha is ruled by King Bhishmaka, who is the father of Rukmini. Rukmini was the princess who married Lord Krishna, one of the most revered figures in Hindu mythology.

The story of Rukmini and Krishna’s marriage is a significant part of Vidarbha’s cultural heritage. According to the legend, Rukmini fell in love with Krishna and sent him a letter asking him to rescue her from an unwanted marriage. Krishna came to Vidarbha, fought off her suitors, and took her away to marry her.

The Naga Connection to Nagpur

Another important part of Nagpur’s mythology is its connection to the Nagas, a serpent-worshiping tribe. The Nagas were a powerful tribe in ancient India, and many places in central India, including Nagpur, are believed to be named after them.

The Nagas were known for their bravery and their devotion to their serpent deities.

Nagpur, in particular, is believed to have been an important center for Naga worship.

The city’s name itself is thought to come from the word "Naga," reflecting this ancient connection. Many local legends speak of the Nagas ruling this area before other dynasties took over.

The Ramayana and Nagpur

Another significant mythological connection is to the Ramayana, one of the most important epics in Indian literature.

It is believed that Lord Rama visited the Vidarbha region during his exile from Ayodhya. According to legend, it was during this time that Lord Rama stayed near Nagpur and visited the Ramtek region. The Ram Mandir at Ramtek is believed to have been built to honor Lord Rama’s visit to this region.

This connection to the Ramayana adds to the cultural significance of Nagpur. The Ramtek temple is one of the oldest and most important religious sites in the region and continues to be a place of pilgrimage for many devotees.

The Bhosale Dynasty: The Rise of a Maratha Powerhouse in Nagpur

After centuries of mythological and prehistoric development, Nagpur’s history took a significant turn with the arrival of the Bhosale dynasty in the 18th century.

The Bhosales were part of the larger Maratha Empire, which was one of the most powerful empires in India at the time. The Bhosale family’s rule in Nagpur marks one of the most important periods in the city’s history.

The Early Days of the Bhosale Dynasty

The Bhosale dynasty’s connection to Nagpur began with Parsoji Bhosale, the founder of the Nagpur branch of the Maratha Empire.

Parsoji was a trusted officer under the Maratha ruler Chhatrapati Shivaji, and he played an important role in collecting taxes (known as "chauth") from the region of Vidarbha.

This marked the beginning of the Bhosale family’s influence in the region.

After Parsoji’s death in 1709, his son Kanhoji Bhosale succeeded him as the ruler of Nagpur. However, the real rise of the Bhosale dynasty came under Kanhoji’s nephew, Raghuji I.

Raghuji was a powerful and ambitious ruler, and it was under his leadership that Nagpur became a significant center of Maratha power.

Raghuji Bhosale I: Expansion and Consolidation

Raghuji Bhosale I is considered one of the most important rulers of the Bhosale dynasty. He was known for his military campaigns and his efforts to expand the Maratha Empire into central and eastern India. Raghuji’s rule marked a period of great growth and prosperity for Nagpur.

One of Raghuji’s most significant achievements was his conquest of Bengal. Raghuji led a series of successful military campaigns in Bengal, Orissa, and parts of northern India. His campaigns were so successful that he was able to collect taxes from these regions, further strengthening his power.

Under Raghuji’s rule, Nagpur became a well-administered kingdom with strong defenses and a thriving economy. Raghuji also focused on public works and infrastructure, building roads, temples, and other public buildings that contributed to the growth of Nagpur as an important city.

Raghuji’s Contribution to Culture and Religion

Raghuji was not only a great military leader but also a patron of religion and culture.

One of his most famous contributions was the restoration of the Ram Mandir at Ramtek. This temple, dedicated to Lord Rama, is one of the oldest and most important temples in the region.

Raghuji’s restoration of the temple further strengthened Nagpur’s connection to its mythological roots and reinforced his image as a pious and righteous ruler.

Internal Struggles and Conflicts

Despite his successes, Raghuji’s rule was not without challenges. After his death, his four sons—Janoji, Mudhoji, Sabaji, and Nibaji—began to fight over the control of the kingdom.

This led to internal strife, weakening the Bhosale dynasty’s hold on power.

The family feuds continued for several years, making it difficult for the dynasty to present a united front against external threats.

The British Threat and the Second Maratha War

While the Bhosales were dealing with internal issues, a new and powerful threat was emerging from the east—the British East India Company.

By the late 18th century, the British were rapidly expanding their control over India, and central India was one of their key targets.

The Bhosales found themselves in direct conflict with the British during the Second Maratha War, which began in 1803. Janoji Bhosale, with the help of other Maratha leaders like Daulatrao Shinde, tried to resist the British forces, but the Maratha Empire was already in decline.

The British, under the leadership of Lord Wellesley, launched a series of successful campaigns that severely weakened the Marathas.

The Treaty of Devgaon and the Decline of the Bhosale Dynasty

After suffering defeats in battle, the Bhosales were forced to sign the Treaty of Devgaon in 1803. This treaty marked a turning point in the history of the Bhosale dynasty.

Under the terms of the treaty, the Bhosales had to cede several important territories to the British, including the region of Orissa. This significantly reduced the Bhosale dynasty’s power and marked the beginning of their decline.

The treaty also imposed strict limitations on the Bhosales’ military capabilities, further weakening their ability to defend their kingdom. Over time, the British tightened their control over the Bhosale dynasty, turning them into little more than puppet rulers.

The Tragic Death of Parsoji Bhosale and Appasaheb’s Rise

After Raghuji II’s death, his son Parsoji Bhosale ascended the throne. However, Parsoji was not a strong ruler.

He was weak in both body and mind, which made him an easy target for ambitious rivals. One such rival was his cousin, Appasaheb (also known as Mudhoji).

Appasaheb quickly began to position himself as the real power behind the throne.

He conspired with several Maratha chieftains and took control of Nagpur by placing Parsoji under his guardianship. Parsoji’s reign was short-lived, and he was soon found dead under mysterious circumstances.

It is widely believed that he was strangled to death, although the true cause of his death remains unknown.

Appasaheb’s Defiance and the Battle of Sitabuldi

With Parsoji out of the way, Appasaheb Bhosale became the ruler of Nagpur.

He immediately set about consolidating power and strengthening his kingdom. However, Appasaheb’s ambitions soon brought him into direct conflict with the British.

In 1817, Appasaheb launched a military campaign against the British, attacking the Residency in Nagpur. This led to the famous Battle of Sitabuldi, one of the most significant battles in the history of Nagpur.

Appasaheb’s forces fought bravely, but they were ultimately defeated by the British. The defeat marked the end of Appasaheb’s rule and the beginning of full British control over Nagpur.

The End of the Bhosale Dynasty and the British Annexation of Nagpur

After his defeat, Appasaheb was captured and imprisoned by the British. With Appasaheb out of the way, the British took full control of Nagpur.

In 1854, after the death of Raghuji III, who died without an heir, the British officially annexed Nagpur under the Doctrine of Lapse. This marked the end of the Bhosale dynasty’s rule over Nagpur.

Legacy of Nagpur and the Bhosale Dynasty

Nagpur’s history, from its prehistoric roots to its role in the Maratha Empire, reflects the city’s importance in India’s cultural and political landscape.

Today, Nagpur continues to thrive as a major city, but its past remains a vital part of its identity. The history of Nagpur is one of evolution, from its early days as a prehistoric settlement to its rise as a powerful kingdom under the Bhosale dynasty.

It has witnessed the changes of time, from ancient mythology to colonial rule. The Bhosale dynasty’s contributions, along with the city's deep mythological roots, have shaped Nagpur into what it is today.

Through prehistoric discoveries, ancient legends, and the legacy of the Bhosale dynasty, Nagpur has maintained its place in history as a region rich in culture, power, and resilience.