History of Haryana

Overview

History of Haryana is a crucial component of the Haryana General Knowledge section in HTET. This topic spans from the Indus Valley Civilization to the formation of the modern state in 1966, covering approximately 5,000 years of human settlement and historical events. Questions typically focus on archaeological sites, major battles fought on Haryana's soil, freedom fighters, and the circumstances leading to state formation.

Haryana's geographical position—the land between the Yamuna and Sutlej rivers—made it a gateway to the Indian subcontinent. This strategic location meant that nearly every invader and empire passed through or fought decisive battles here. Understanding this history helps explain not just exam questions but also the cultural identity of the region. Expect 3-5 direct questions from this topic across all HTET levels.

Key Concepts

• **Haryana as a Cradle of Civilisation**: The region contains some of the largest and oldest Indus Valley Civilisation sites, predating even Mohenjo-Daro in certain aspects. Rakhigarhi is now considered one of the biggest IVC sites globally.

• **Land of Mahabharata**: The Kurukshetra region is traditionally associated with the Mahabharata war. The name "Haryana" itself may derive from "Hari" (referring to Lord Vishnu/Krishna) or "Hariyana" meaning the abode of God.

• **Battlefield of India**: Three Battles of Panipat and two Battles of Tarain were fought here, each changing the course of Indian history and determining who would rule Delhi.

• **1857 Rebellion Leadership**: Haryana contributed significantly to the First War of Independence, with leaders like Rao Tula Ram becoming symbols of resistance against British rule.

• **Late State Formation**: Unlike other linguistic states, Haryana was carved out of Punjab only in 1966, making it one of India's younger states. The demand was based on linguistic and cultural identity rather than princely state boundaries.

• **Vedic Connections**: The region is mentioned in Vedic literature as Brahmavarta (land of Brahma) and was a centre of early Aryan settlement where many Vedic hymns were composed.

Key Facts

| Period | Key Facts | |--------|-----------| | **Ancient** | Rakhigarhi (Hisar) – largest IVC site in India, spread over 350+ hectares | | | Mitathal (Bhiwani) – two cultural phases, pre-Harappan and Harappan | | | Banawali (Fatehabad) – unique oval-shaped settlement, ploughed field discovery | | | Bhagwanpura (Kurukshetra) – PGW (Painted Grey Ware) culture site | | | Agroha (Hisar) – ancient city associated with Agrawal community and Maharaja Agrasena | | **Medieval** | First Battle of Tarain (1191) – Prithviraj Chauhan defeated Muhammad Ghori | | | Second Battle of Tarain (1192) – Ghori defeated Prithviraj, beginning of Muslim rule in India | | | First Battle of Panipat (1526) – Babur defeated Ibrahim Lodi, Mughal Empire founded | | | Second Battle of Panipat (1556) – Akbar's general Bairam Khan defeated Hemu | | | Third Battle of Panipat (1761) – Ahmad Shah Abdali defeated Marathas | | **Modern** | 1857 – Rao Tula Ram led uprising from Rewari; Jhajjar Nawab supported rebels | | | 1858 – British suppressed rebellion; Haryana remained part of Punjab | | | 1966 – Punjab Reorganisation Act; Haryana formed on 1st November 1966 |