After the decline of the Mughal Empire, Bihar came under the control of the Nawabs of Bengal, who ruled Bengal, Bihar, and Orissa as semi-independent rulers while nominally acknowledging Mughal sovereignty. Rise of the Nawabs In 1717 CE, Mughal emperor Farrukhsiyar granted the governorship of Bengal, Bihar, and Orissa to Murshid Quli Khan. The Nawabs …
The Sur Empire was established by Sher Shah Suri, an Afghan ruler from Sasaram in Bihar, after defeating the Mughals. His reign marked an era of strong administration, economic prosperity, and infrastructure development. Rise of Sher Shah Suri Born as Farid Khan, he earned the title ‘Sher Khan’ after killing a tiger single-handedly. He served …
The Mughal period in Bihar began after the Battle of Panipat (1526 CE) and the establishment of the Mughal Empire in India. Bihar played a strategic role in the Mughal administration due to its fertile land, trade routes, and proximity to Bengal. Early Phase under Babur and Humayun After Babur’s victory at Panipat (1526 CE), …
After the decline of the Pala Empire, Bihar came under the control of various regional dynasties before the emergence of the Delhi Sultanate and later the Mughals. The Karnat, Oiniwar, and Khayaravala dynasties played a significant role in the history of medieval Bihar. Karnat Dynasty (1097 CE – 1324 CE) Founded by Nanyadeva, who made …
The Neolithic Age (around 2500 BCE – 1500 BCE in Bihar) marked the beginning of agriculture, domestication of animals, and use of polished stone tools. In Bihar, several important Neolithic sites have been discovered, showing the gradual transition from hunting-gathering to settled life. Key Features of Neolithic Culture in Bihar Agriculture: People practiced early farming, …
Vikramshila University was one of the most important centers of Buddhist learning in ancient India, located at Antichak village in Bhagalpur district, Bihar. Along with Nalanda and Odantapuri, it formed a trio of great Buddhist universities in medieval India. Foundation of Vikramshila Founded in the late 8th century CE by Pala king Dharmapala (c. 783–820 …
Nalanda University, located in present-day Nalanda district of Bihar, was the most renowned ancient center of Buddhist learning in India. It attracted scholars from all over Asia and played a crucial role in the growth, preservation, and spread of Buddhism. Foundation of Nalanda University Established in the 5th century CE during the reign of Kumaragupta …
Bihar is considered the birthplace and heartland of Jainism, one of the oldest religions of India. The 24th and last Tirthankara, Vardhamana Mahavira, attained spiritual enlightenment in Bihar. Many important events in the development of Jainism are directly connected to this region. Birth of Mahavira Vardhamana Mahavira was born in 599 BCE at Kundagrama near …
Bihar holds a special place in the history of Buddhism as it is the land where Siddhartha Gautama attained enlightenment and became the Buddha. Many of the most important events in Buddha’s life and the growth of Buddhism are directly linked to Bihar. Birth of Buddhism Siddhartha Gautama (later the Buddha) was born at Lumbini …
The Gupta Empire originated from Magadha (Bihar) and marked the beginning of India’s Golden Age. The Guptas brought political stability, prosperity, and great advancements in science, art, literature, and trade. Chandragupta I (319–335 CE) Founder of the Gupta dynasty. Expanded territory through matrimonial alliances, especially with the Licchavis. Assumed the title of Maharajadhiraja (King of …