Bidar is a historic city in the northern part of Karnataka, India. It is known for its rich cultural heritage and historical significance. Here is a brief overview of its history:
Ancient and Early Medieval Period
- Early Settlements: Bidar has evidence of human settlement dating back to the Stone Age. It has seen various dynasties and empires ruling over the region due to its strategic location.
- Maurya and Satavahana Periods: Bidar was part of the Mauryan Empire under Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE. Later, it became a part of the Satavahana dynasty’s territory.
Medieval Period
- Chalukyas and Rashtrakutas: During the early medieval period, Bidar came under the control of the Chalukyas of Badami and later the Rashtrakutas, who made it an important cultural and administrative center.
- Kakatiyas and Delhi Sultanate: The Kakatiya dynasty of Warangal controlled Bidar in the 13th century. In the early 14th century, it was conquered by the Delhi Sultanate.
Bahmani Sultanate
- Foundation of the Bahmani Sultanate: Bidar rose to prominence when it became the capital of the Bahmani Sultanate in 1429. Sultan Ala-ud-Din Bahman Shah moved his capital from Gulbarga to Bidar, initiating a period of architectural and cultural development.
- Architectural Flourish: The Bahmani rulers built many significant monuments in Bidar, including the Bidar Fort, Madrasa of Mahmud Gawan, and various mosques and palaces. The Persian influence is evident in the architecture from this period.
Post-Bahmani Period
- Deccan Sultanates: After the decline of the Bahmani Sultanate, Bidar became part of the newly formed Deccan Sultanates. The Barid Shahi dynasty ruled Bidar until it was annexed by the Bijapur Sultanate in the late 16th century.
- Mughal and Maratha Influence: In the 17th century, Bidar was captured by the Mughal Empire. It later saw Maratha influence before eventually becoming part of the Nizam of Hyderabad’s territory.
Modern Period
- Integration into India: After Indian independence in 1947, Bidar became part of the Hyderabad State, which was later merged into the Indian Union in 1948. Eventually, it was incorporated into the state of Karnataka.
Cultural Significance
- Bidriware: Bidar is famous for its unique metalwork, known as Bidriware, which involves intricate silver inlay work on a blackened zinc and copper alloy base.
- Educational Heritage: The city was historically known for its educational institutions, including the 15th-century Madrasa of Mahmud Gawan, which attracted scholars from across the region.
Bidar today is a testament to its rich and diverse history, with numerous historical sites and monuments that reflect its glorious past.
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