Maharashtra
Maharashtra, a state where a millennium of culture weaves a tapestry of myriad
charms. The spiritual solace of centuries. The sylvan serenity of the countryside.
The stillness of a thicket disturbed only by a tiger flashing past, or the
symphony of tradition from its varied population. All abound in a unique togetherness.
In Maharashtra, a state as vivid as vivacious.
The Chinese pilgrim, Hiun Tsang, visited Maharashtra during AD 640-641 and
was very impressed by the prosperity of the country, the efficiency of the
administration and the character of the people. He called the land Mo-ho-lo-cha
(Moholesh), and was perhaps the first person to discuss the region and its
people.
He says: "The soil is rich and fertile and it is regularly cultivated
and very productive. Men are fond of learning and studying both heretical
and orthodox books. The disposition of the people is honest and simple; they
are tall in stature and of a stern and vindictive character. To their benefactors,
they are grateful; to their enemies, relentless. If they are insulted, they
will risk their lives to avenge themselves. If they are asked to help one
in distress, they will forget themselves in their haste to render assistance."
The antiquity of this region can be traced to approximately the 3rd century
BC, which is when the Maharastri language, a Prakrit corruption of Sanskrit
from which the term 'Maharashtra' is derived, was then in use. Marathi, which
evolved from Maharastri-Prakrit, has been the lingua franca of the people
of this area from the 10th century onwards.
And, in the course of time, the term 'Maharashtra' was used to describe a
region which consisted of Aparanta, Vidarbha, Mulak, Ashmak and Kuntal. The
tribal communities of Nags, Munds and Bhils inhabited this area, also known
as Dandakaranya, in ancient times.
They were joined by the Aryas, the Shakas and the Huns, who came from the
North, as well as by foreigners, who arrived by sea. The Dravidians from the
South colonised the land, joining a group which collectively became known
as 'Marathas'
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