FAQs on History of Uttarakhand

What are the earliest known inhabitants of Uttarakhand?

The earliest inhabitants of Uttarakhand were the Kol people, followed by the Khasas, who are mentioned in the Mahabharata.

Which ancient kingdoms ruled Uttarakhand?

The region was ruled by several ancient kingdoms like the Kuninda Kingdom and later the Katyuri Dynasty.

Who were the prominent dynasties during the medieval period?

The Chand dynasty in Kumaon and the Panwar dynasty in Garhwal were the most prominent during this period. They were known for their architectural marvels and cultural contributions.

How did the Gurkhas impact Uttarakhand’s history?

The Gurkhas, from Nepal, invaded and ruled parts of Uttarakhand for a brief period in the early 19th century before being defeated by the British in the Anglo-Nepalese War.

When did the British take control of Uttarakhand?

The British gained control of the region after the Anglo-Nepalese War in 1815. They established their administration and made significant developments in infrastructure.

What was the Tehri Riyasat?

The Tehri Riyasat was a princely state established by the Panwar dynasty in Garhwal after their defeat by the Gurkhas. It was the largest princely state in the region during the British Raj.

When did Uttarakhand become a separate state?

Uttarakhand was carved out of Uttar Pradesh and became a separate state on 9th November 2000.

What role did Uttarakhand play in India’s freedom struggle?

Uttarakhand was an active participant in India’s struggle for independence. Many freedom fighters like Badri Dutt Pandey, Gaura Devi (Chipko Movement), and others led movements and protests against British rule.

What was the Uttarakhand statehood movement?

The Uttarakhand statehood movement was a long-standing demand for a separate state due to cultural, linguistic, and geographical differences from the plains of Uttar Pradesh. The movement gained momentum in the 1990s and finally led to the formation of Uttarakhand in 2000.