Dehradun Establishment History : Ancient Legends to British Rule
Dehradun Establishment History : Ancient Legends to British Rule
Dehradun Establishment History
Dehradun Establishment History : Dehradun is one of the oldest cities in India, with historical mentions dating back to ancient texts like the Skanda Purana. Strategically located in the Doon valley between the Himalayan foothills and Shivalik ranges, Dehradun has played an important role as a center of power and control in the Garhwal region for centuries.
Role of Dehradun in Garhwal Kingdom’s History
Part of Ancient Kedarkhand Region
As per Hindu legends, Dehradun and the surrounding Dun valley formed part of the ancient Kedarkhand region, associated with Lord Shiva. The Skanda Purana mentions several holy places in the region that were sites of Hindu pilgrimage even in ancient times.
Strategic Location and Regional Importance
Control of the Dun valley and Dehradun area was important for rulers of Garhwal as it gave access to the northern mountain passes and trade routes. Various ruins and inscriptions indicate the area was under local Garhwal chiefs or rajas from medieval times.
Brief Rohilla Occupation
In the early 18th century the Rohilla chieftains temporarily captured the Dehradun region. But they were soon ousted by the King of Garhwal, who regained control of the area.
Under King Pradyumna Shah
Historically, the establishment of Dehradun city is often attributed to the King of Garhwal, Pradyumna Shah in the late 18th century. The king reportedly built a fort and palace in the area and settled several communities.
Dehradun Establishment History under Guru Ram Rai and Establishment of Udasi Sikhs
Arrival and Settlement of Guru Ram Rai
In 1676, the elder son of the seventh Sikh Guru Har Rai, Ram Rai was excommunicated from the Sikh fold. He was then invited by Aurangzeb to settle in the Dun valley where he founded the town of Dehradun.
Construction of First Temples
Guru Ram Rai constructed the first Sikh/Udasi temples in the area, laying the foundation for the Udasi sect under his leadership. The Udasis went on establish several ashrams and temples.
Patronage from Mughals and Local Rajas
As a Mughal protege, the Udasis enjoyed patronage from the emperors as well as local rulers, allowing them to expand their following and acquire land grants in Dun valley.
Udasis’ Contribution to Growth of Dehradun
The Udasis were pioneers in settling the forests around Dehradun for agriculture and expanding trade networks. They contributed significantly to the growth of the fledgeling town.
Dehradun Establishment History under Rohilla and Gurkha Rule
Rohilla Occupation
In 1757, when Najib-ud-Daula became the Mughal governor, Rohilla leader Hafiz Rahmat Khan seized control of Saharanpur and Dehradun. The Rohillas continued to occupy the area until the early 19th century.
Impact on Region’s Demography and Economy
During their rule spanning over six decades, the Rohillas invited settlers from their homeland to establish villages around Dehradun. The economy also shifted more towards agriculture in this period.
Gurkha Conquest and Control
From 1803-1815, Dehradun and parts of Garhwal came under the occupation of the Gurkha empire of Nepal. Their rule was marked by high taxes and economic exploitation of the people.
Ouster by East India Company Forces
Finally in 1815, the Gurkhas were ousted from western Garhwal and Dehradun after the Anglo-Nepalese war, bringing the area under the rule of the British East India Company.
Dehradun Establishment History
Dehradun Establishment History, Dehradun’s history and establishment as an important regional center is intertwined with the various rulers controlling the Garhwal kingdom and surrounds over the centuries. From the indigenous Garhwal chiefs, to Mughal governors, Rohilla chieftains, Gurkha conquerers, and finally the British – Dehradun’s strategic location has made it an epicenter of political and economic power and activities in the region historically.
