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  • Traditional Tribal Justice and Government system in Jharkhand

    Self-Governance System of Mundas

    • Language: Mundari (Austro-Asiatic Family)
    • Main Areas of Residence: Ranchi, Singhbhum, Hazaribagh, Palamu, Dhanbad
    • Population: Approximately 12.29 Lakhs
    • Main Purpose: Settlement of social, religious, economic, cultural, and criminal matters.

    Key Positions and Roles

    • Munda: Head of the village; leads administration, judicial functions, and tax collection.
    • Padha Raja: Head of a group of 12-20 villages (Padha); handles complex disputes (Honorarium: ₹1000).
    • Raja: Head of 22 Padhas; high-level decision-maker.
    • Thakur: Assistant to the Padha Raja.
    • Diwan: Minister of the Raja; responsible for implementation of orders (Garh Diwan and Raj Diwan).
    • Barkandaz (Soldier): Distributes notices; ensures security in Sabha.
    • Pandey: Responsible for the protection of documents and issuing notices.
    • Lal (Bardalal, Majhalal, Chhotelal): Acts as a lawyer-like debater in Sabha.
    • Pahan: Assistant to Munda; oversees religious functions.
    • Priest Pahan: Conducts worship during festivals.
    • Mahato: Distributes information; assistant to Munda and Pahan.
    • Purification Work: Involved in priestly duties.
    • Ghatwar: Distributes punishment materials.
    • Chawar Dolait: Responsible for washing hands and feet in Sabha.
    • Paan Khawas: Distributes lime-tobacco in Sabha.

    Dispute Resolution Process

    1. First Stage:
      • The aggrieved person informs the Munda.
      • Mahato spreads the information across the village.
      • A hearing takes place in the village Sabha.
      • Decision: Financial penalty or social boycott.
    2. Second Stage:
      • If unresolved at the village level, a Padha Sabha is convened.
      • Information is disseminated through Diwan and Barkandaz.
    3. Third Stage:
      • If unresolved in the Padha Sabha, the matter is taken to the Mahasabha of 22 Padharajas.
      • Final Decision: The decision is final and binding.

    Contributions of the Traditional System in Various Fields

    • Criminal Cases: Economic penalty; decisions based on human values.
    • Sexual Atrocities: Strict punishment; responsibility of the girl in case of marriage.
    • Development Work: Construction of roads, wells, and canals through Shramdaan (voluntary labor).
    • Land Disputes: Fair distribution by Munda.
    • Religious Work: Pahan sets the dates for religious activities.
    • Rights of Women: Limited rights on land for maintenance.
    • Hereditary Rights: The post is handed over only to eligible heirs.

    Akhada and Collective Decision Making

    • Location: Middle of the village, often under a tree (if available).
    • Function: Collective discussion and morality-based decisions; ensures quick and low-cost justice.

    Padha Panchayat Governance System (Uraon Tribe)

    Village Panchayat

    • Main Officials: Mahto (Chief), Pahan (Priest), Bhandari (Messenger).
    • Function: Dispute settlement, disaster management, and festival organization.

    Padha Panchayat

    • Group: 9-12 villages.
    • Chief: Padha Raja.
    • Other Officials: Diwan, Minister, Kotwar, Panbhara.
    • Function: Acts as an appellate court and enforces social rules.
    • Special Note: The “Mudma Mela” of Ranchi district is a prominent example of Padha Panchayat’s influence.

    Relationship Between Mahto and Padha Raja

    • The Mahto works under the Padha Raja.
    • The Padha Raja does not intervene without the Mahto’s request.

    Manki-Munda Self-Rule System

    Historical Background

    • Prevalent in western and eastern Singhbhum and Saraikela-Kharsawan districts.
    • Prior to British rule, the Porahat (Singhbhum) king ruled, but the ‘Ho’ community was not directly controlled by the king.

    Changes After British Rule

    • In 1821, the British occupied southern Singhbhum and named it Kolhan Government State. Captain Thomas Wilkinson was appointed in 1837 for administration.
    • Wilkinson Rule:
      • Munda: Hears civil cases.
      • Manki: Hears criminal cases.

    Objectives of Administration in Kolhan

    • Maintain local governance.
    • Establish a direct relationship between the government and the people.
    • Settle disputes through village panchayats.
    • Prevent the entry of outsiders into the area.

    Rights and Duties of Manki

    • Hereditary Post (Marusi): Manki’s role is hereditary.
    • Chief and Responsible Officer: Oversees the Peed (region).
    • Revenue Collection: Works with Munda for revenue collection; entitled to a 10% commission.
    • Police Officer: Arrests criminals and hands them over to authorities.
    • Government Orders: Acts in accordance with government orders.
    • Dispute Resolution: Resolves smaller disputes and reports to the Deputy Commissioner.

    Rights and Duties of Munda

    • Represents the village and its autonomy.
    • Has the right to settle fallow land.
    • Informs the government about the settlement of outsiders.
    • Oversees public resources in the village.
    • Acts as a police officer; reports crimes to district administration.
    • Ensures forest conservation and law enforcement.

    Other Key Officials in Kolhan

    • Manki Committee: Resolves complex disputes.
    • Dakuamunda: Assistant to Munda; informs about meetings.
    • Tehsildar: Assistant to Manki; handles revenue collection.
    • Diuri: Responsible for religious worship and social crime resolution.
    • Travel Diuri: Participates in worship of village deities.

    Manjhi-Pargana Governance System (Santhal Pargana)

    Structure

    • Parganait: Head of 15-20 villages.
    • Desh Manjhi / Mode Manjhi: Head of 5-8 villages.
    • Manjhi: Village head.
    • Pranik: Sub-Manjhi.
    • Godait: Secretary and Treasurer.
    • Jog Manjhi: Youth leadership.
    • Jog Pranik: Assistant to Jog Manjhi.
    • Bhagdo Praja: Leading member of Gram Sabha.
    • Laser Tangoy: Security head.
    • Naike: Head of religious functions.
    • Chowkidar: Responsible for catching criminals.

    Dispute Settlement Process

    1. Village-Level: Disputes are settled by the Manjhi.
    2. If Unresolved: The matter is escalated to the Desh Manjhi.
    3. Final Decision: The Parganait handles unresolved issues at the Parganait level.

    Criminal Case Resolution

    • Village-Level: Most crimes, except murder, are settled in the village.
    • Punishments: Ranges from a light penalty (karela danda) to a large monetary fine.
    • Payment Plans: If the criminal cannot pay, they are given a payment period.
    • Serious Crimes: No release is allowed for serious crimes.

    Settlement of Sexual Crimes

    • Reported by the victim or guardian.
    • A meeting is held where all parties (complainant, accused, and witness) present their case.
    • If Found Guilty:
      • A marriage proposal is made (if both parties agree).
      • If rejected, an appropriate punishment is imposed.

    Additional Traditional Systems

    1. Illegitimate Children and Marriage Laws:
      • Jog Manjhi: Assigned as the gotra for illegitimate children.
      • Daughters may be married with the consent of their father, and dowry is provided.
    2. Family and Village Disputes:
      • Disputes are first brought before the village’s Manjhi, and the matter is escalated if unresolved.
    3. Bitlaha Tradition:
      • Social ostracism is imposed if a person does not follow the punishment. The community works together to persuade the individual, and if ignored, a “Bitlaha” ceremony is held.
    4. Sohor Panchayat (Kharia Tribe):
      • Several villages form the Sohor Panchayat to resolve disputes not settled at the village level.
    5. Village-Level Panchayat System:
      • The Mahato and elders lead meetings to resolve disputes, especially related to land and festivals.
    6. Caste and Private Panchayat System:
      • Private Panchayats can be called for personal disputes, where decisions are made through trial by fire or oath.
    7. Santhal Panchayat System (Manjhi Than):
      • Five officers form the Panchayat: Manjhi, Pranik, Jog Manjhi, Jog Pranik, and Godait. Originally elected annually, the position became hereditary.
    8. Other Tribal Panchayats:
      • Other tribes like Bhumij, Chero, Oraon, Munda, Birhor, etc., had their separate panchayats with positions like Mahato, Dehri, Raja, Munda, Naya.

    Nagavanshi Governance System

    • King: Head of governance.
    • Allies: Army, landlords, jagirdars, Brahmins, Rajguru, and priests.
    • Revenue Administration: Managed by Diwan, Patwari, and Amin.
    • Parha Panchayats: Foundation of administration, though the influence of Kol and Oraon decreased over time, with Kayastha influence growing.

  • History of Jharkhand: From the post-Mughal era to modern times (1707–1942)

    1. After Aurangzeb’s Death (1707)

    • Mughal empire weakened, leading to anarchy in Jharkhand.
    • Local kings and landlords tried to strengthen their powers:
      • Ramgarh: Initially received ‘mansab’ from the Bengal Subedar but started acting independently.
      • Chhotanagpur: Nagavanshi kings asserted independence from Mughal representatives.
      • Palamu: Chero rulers remained under nominal Mughal control, but internal power struggles emerged.
      • Singhbhum: Local rulers were practically independent; Mughal control was weak.
    • Nawabs of Bengal (Murshid Quli Khan, Alivardi Khan):
      • Attempted tax collection and political control.
      • Frequent rebellions and local conflicts made it difficult.
    • By mid-18th century:
      • Jharkhand remained under Mughal/Nawabi rule only nominally.
      • Real control was in the hands of local kings.

    2. Modern Period (1765–1942)

    Diwani of Bengal, Bihar, and Orissa (1765)

    • 12 August 1765: Shah Alam II granted Diwani rights to the East India Company.
    • Jharkhand (Chhota Nagpur) was included under Bihar but remained culturally and politically distinct.
    • Mughal and Maratha invasions occurred but no permanent rule was established.

    3. Entry of the British in Jharkhand

    Singhbhum Region (1760 Onwards)

    • British interest arose after capturing Midnapur.
    • Major Kingdoms:
      • Dhalbhum
      • Paurahat
      • Kolhan (Ho tribe territory)

    Campaigns and Battles

    • January 1767: Fergusson led an invasion:
      • Defeated kings of Jhargram, Jambani, Silda.
      • Captured Dhalbhum’s burning palace (22 March 1767).
      • Installed Jagannath Dhal as king, later replaced by Nimu Dhal.

    Treaties

    • 1773: Treaty with the King of Porahat.
    • Later similar treaties with Saraikela and Kharsawan.

    Kolhan and the Ho Tribe

    • Ho tribe remained independent from Mughal and Maratha rule.
    • Frequent invasions into Nagavanshi territories (1770, 1800).
    • British military actions:
      • 1820: Major Roughsedge – partial success.
      • 1821: Colonel Richard – Ho tribe surrendered.
      • Tax imposed: 1 Rupee per plough.
    • Kol Rebellion (1831–32, 1836–37):
      • Ho tribe revolted but eventually surrendered.
      • British administrative unit created in Kolhan.

    4. British Expansion in Palamu and Chhotanagpur

    Palamu (1771)

    • Occupied by Chero kings: Chiranjit Rai and Jayanath Singh.
    • British supported Gopal Rai:
      • March 21, 1771: Palamu fort captured by Captain Jacob Camek.
      • July 1771: Gopal Rai declared king, annual land revenue ₹12,000.

    Chhotanagpur

    • Nagavanshi King Darpanath Shah:
      • Accepted British subordination.
      • Annual tribute: ₹12,000.
      • Pledged help against the Marathas.

    Ramgarh and Hazaribagh

    • Raja Mukund Singh:
      • Initially opposed British influence.
      • Later proposed friendship under British pressure.
      • Gradual British influence increased.

    5. Administrative Reorganization

    Formation of Lohardaga Agency

    • Headquarters: Kisanpur, Lohardaga.
    • First Agent: Thomas Wilkinson (reported directly to Governor-General).
    • District Officer: Robert Ouseley appointed.

    Post-1854 Changes

    • South-West Frontier Agency abolished.
    • Chhotanagpur placed under Bengal’s Lieutenant Governor.
    • Formation of Chhota Nagpur Commissionerate:
      • Included Lohardaga, Hazaribagh, Manbhum, Singhbhum, Surguja, etc.

    6. Manbhum Area

    • Large region during the East India Company era, including:
      • Jharia, Katras, Parra, Raghunathpur, and others.
    • 1767 (Fergusson’s entry):
      • Five major independent landlords: Manbhum, Barabhum, Supur, Abhinagar, Chatana.
    • British struggle:
      • Military action initially failed.
      • Adopted annual settlement policy for control.

    7. Singhbhum and Kolhan (Further Developments)

    • 1837: Captain Wilkinson’s military action in Kolhan.
      • Villages Ipilasingi and Panga burnt.
      • Formation of Kolhan Government Estate.
      • First Deputy Commissioner: Tickell.
    • Wilkinson Rules (1833):
      • Administrative code of 31 rules implemented.
    • Seraikela and Kharsawan:
      • Gradually annexed in 1934.

    8. Santhal Pargana and Paharia Policy

    Early British Efforts

    • Peace efforts with hill tribes (‘Highlander’, ‘Hill Man’).
    • Tribal administration under the Khetauri family of Manihari.

    Disturbances

    • Maler tribe attacks during the famine of 1770.
    • Looting and violence increased.
    • Fear spread in Rajmahal and nearby regions.

    British Military Actions

    • Captain Brooke (1771-1774):
      • Suppressed forest terror.
      • Settled 283 villages.
    • Captain James Brown (1774-1778):
      • Proposed respecting traditional tribal systems.

    Augustus Cleveland’s Reforms (1779–1784)

    • Adopted justice and humane policy.
    • Cleveland Plan:
      • Engage hill tribes in agriculture and military.
      • Salary and uniforms for 400 tribal soldiers.
    • Effects:
      • Brought peace and reduced crime.
      • Markets set up for tribal trade.
    • Post-Cleveland:
      • Schemes declined after his death.
      • Paharia Panchayats weakened.

    Attempts at Reforms

    • Marquis of Hastings: Promised but did not fulfill support schemes.
    • Fombell: Tried to revive Paharia system.
    • Abdul Rasul Khan’s Corruption: Caused widespread discontent.

    9. Arrival and Struggles of the Santhals

    • Santhals settled in Bhagalpur, Birbhum, and later Damin-i-Koh.
    • Exploited by moneylenders, trapped in debt.
    • Faced severe injustice and exploitation.

    10. Santhal Rebellion (1855–1856)

    Causes

    • Bonded labor, exorbitant loans, land seizure.
    • Exploitation by landlords, moneylenders, and British officials.

    Leadership and Movement

    • Sidhu, Kanhu, Chand, Bhairav: Divine-inspired leadership.
    • 30 June 1855: 10,000 Santhals assembled at Bhognadih.
    • 7 July 1855: Killed Inspector Maheshlal Dutt.

    Conflict and Suppression

    • Spread rebellion across Bhagalpur and Birbhum.
    • British forces (Major Burrow, Colonel Bird) sent for suppression.
    • Rebellion suppressed by 1856.

    Consequences

    • Formation of Santhal Pargana:
      • Damin-i-Koh separated.
      • Sub-divisions: Dumka, Godda, Deoghar, Rajmahal.
    • Reforms:
      • Chieftaincy system recognized.
      • Direct contact between Santhals and administration.
      • Laws made to curb exploitation.
    • Legacy:
      • Raised awareness of tribal rights.
      • Influenced future Indian freedom movements.

    Maratha Incursions and Turmoil in Rajmahal (1742–1760): A Historical Account

    Between 1742 and 1751, Bengal and Bihar faced continuous Maratha invasions, significantly impacting regions such as Rajmahal and Santhal Pargana. Below is a detailed bullet-point chronicle of these events and their consequences:

    Maratha Invasions of Bengal and Bihar

    • 1742–1751: Period marked by recurring Maratha attacks on Bengal and Bihar.
    • 1743:
      • Two separate Maratha armies moved toward Bengal.
      • One was led by Raghuji Bhonsle.
      • The other, under Peshwa Balaji Rao, was sent to thwart Raghuji’s ambitions.
      • Balaji Rao entered Bihar from the south with 40,000 cavalry.

    Balaji Rao’s March Through Bihar

    • He advanced through:
      • Tikari
      • Gaya
      • Manpur
      • Bihar
      • Munger
      • Bhagalpur
    • Reached Rajmahal hills via Beniaganj, aided by a local Rajput.
      • British writer Holwell refers to “Beniaganj” near the foothills west of Rajmahal.
      • Another account by Rennel refers to “Beniya Gaong”, 20 miles southeast of Rajmahal.
      • Actual location likely corresponds to Baman Gawa, ~1 mile northwest of Tin-Pahar railway station, ~7 miles southwest of Rajmahal.
    • Balaji proceeded via Birbhum toward Murshidabad.

    Raghuji Bhonsle’s Parallel Advance

    • 1745: Raghuji Bhonsle marched toward Murshidabad through:
      • Birbhum
      • Santhal Pargana’s forests and hills

    1748: Afghan Revolt and Maratha Intrusion

    • 1748: Second Afghan rebellion broke out.
      • Alivardi Khan moved to Bihar to suppress it.
    • Meanwhile, Maratha army led by Mir Habib infiltrated via Santhal Pargana.
      • British records show they halted at Herupur (likely Hirapur in Pakur sub-division).
    • 1749: As Alivardi camped at Midnapore, Mir Habib’s troops looted Bengal.

    1757: Capture of Siraj-ud-Daulah in Rajmahal

    • Mir Daud, faujdar of Rajmahal and brother of Jafar Ali Khan, captured Siraj-ud-Daulah.
    • After the Battle of Plassey, Siraj was heading north by boat.
    • He disembarked at Rajmahal’s Ganga banks to rest.
    • Despite disguise, he was recognized by Dana Shah, a man previously punished by Siraj by having his nose and ears cut off.
    • Ironically, Siraj rested at the very spot where Dana Shah lived as a fakir.
    • Dana Shah informed Mir Daud, who immediately dispatched soldiers to arrest Siraj.
    • Siraj was captured and looted by the soldiers.
    • Mir Qasim, who later replaced Mir Jafar, seized Lutfunnisa’s jewel chest worth lakhs of rupees.
    • Siraj’s chief guard reached Rajmahal hours later, but it was too late.

    Death of Siraj-ud-Daulah

    • As Siraj was being taken to Murshidabad, Miran, son of Mir Jafar Ali Khan, murdered him.

    Death and Burial of Miran (1760)

    • 1760: While campaigning against the Nawab of Purnea, Miran died from a lightning strike in Champaran.
    • His body was brought back and buried at Rajmahal.
    • According to Sair-ul-Mutakhirin:
      • His body was transported in a coffin via the Ganga River.
      • Due to unbearable stench, the entourage was forced to stop at Rajmahal and bury him there.
      • A memorial still exists at the burial site.

  • “Medieval History of Jharkhand and Chhotanagpur”

    Sher Khan’s Entry into Jharkhand and Initial Conflicts (1536-1539)

    • 1536: Sher Khan entered Jharkhand through Rajmahal, reaching God.
    • Conflict with Maharath Chero: Sher Khan fought against Maharath Chero, the king of Jharkhand, forcing him to surrender.
    • 1539: Maharath Chero attempted to resist again, but the Mughal influence continued to grow in the region.

    The Arrival of Akbar and Mughal Influence on Chhotanagpur (1556-1605)

    • Political Change: Akbar’s reign brought a new political shift in Chhotanagpur.
    • 1585: Shahbaz Khan’s invasion led the local king of Chhotanagpur to accept Mughal suzerainty.
    • 1589: Raja Bhagwat Rai entered into an agreement with the Mughals, becoming a Malguzar.
    • Increased Conflicts: During Akbar’s reign, there were intensified conflicts and military activities among smaller kingdoms like Singhbhum and Palamu.

    Jahangir’s Rule and the Struggle of the Nagavanshi Kings (1605-1627)

    • Nagavanshi Resistance: King Durjan Sal of the Nagavanshi dynasty refused to submit to the Mughals and demanded independence.
    • 1615: Jahangir sent Zafar Khan to invade Jharkhand, but Durjan Sal lured him with diamonds and gifts, gaining temporary independence.
    • Strengthening the Kingdom: Durjan Sal built a new capital and reinforced his kingdom.
    • Post-Durjan Sal: After Durjan Sal’s death in 1627, the region saw renewed conflict with the Mughals.

    Mughal Pressure and Struggle of Chero Kings (1627-1640)

    • 1632: Chhotanagpur was made a jagir of Bihar’s Subedar, expanding Mughal influence.
    • Chero Revolts: The successors of Durjan Sal continued to fight against the Mughals, with Chero kings leading multiple rebellions.
    • 1636: Mughal invasions continued, but the Chero kings’ resistance maintained regional stability.

    Chhotanagpur Under Shahjahan and Mughal Rule (1640-1707)

    • Mughal Dominance: Shahjahan’s reign marked the full establishment of Mughal control over Chhotanagpur.
    • Continued Resistance: Despite Mughal invasions, local rulers and rebels continued to challenge their dominance.

    Study of the Relationship Between Local Rulers and the Mughals

    • Raghunath Shah & Medini Rai: Local rulers like Raghunath Shah and Medini Rai managed their relationship with the Mughals by balancing between submission and resistance.
    • Political Struggles: These interactions reflect the complex political strategies employed by local rulers to preserve their autonomy within the Mughal imperial system.

    History of Military Conflicts

    • Conflicts in Palamu & Kokrah: Military struggles in Palamu and Kokrah show how the fight for power in medieval India took on a military form.
    • Royal Treasures: Transactions involving royal treasures played a vital role in these military conflicts.
    • Invasions: Mughal generals like Shaista Khan and Itiqad Khan’s invasions, and the surrender of Pratap Rai, exemplify the complex military dynamics of the period.

    Culture and Religious Construction

    • Raghunath Shah’s Temple Construction: Raghunath Shah and his successors constructed significant temples, showcasing the region’s cultural and religious richness.
    • Architectural Significance: Studying these temples reveals how local rulers used architecture to display power and foster religious identity.

    Local Politics and Strategic Importance of Forts

    • Construction of Forts: Forts like Palamu Fort and Nagpuri Gate were crucial in local politics.
    • Strategic Importance: These forts were not only military strongholds but also symbols of power and regional control.
    • Political Stability: The forts helped maintain political stability and secured the rule of local kings.

    The Palace and the Administration of Bengal

    • Sher Shah and Rajmahal: Rajmahal became an important administrative center during Sher Shah’s reign.
    • 1592: The capital of Bengal was moved from Rajmahal, altering the region’s political landscape.
    • Conflict Over Teliagarhi: Sher Shah’s son, Jalal Khan, fought against the Mughals over the control of Teliagarhi.

    Mughal Rulers and Bengal

    • Suleiman Karrani & Akbar: In 1572, Suleiman Karrani acknowledged Akbar’s suzerainty, followed by Daud Karrani’s declaration of independence.
    • Akbar’s Intervention: Akbar sent “Khan-i-Jahan” and Todar Mal to Bengal in 1575 to regain control.
    • Giddhaur and Deoghar: Raja Puran Mal of Giddhaur established a Shiva temple at Deoghar in 1596.

    Importance of Rajmahal

    • Transfer of Capital: In 1612, the capital of Bengal was moved to Dhaka, but Rajmahal had been a significant administrative center before this shift.
    • Shahjahan’s Rule: Shuja made Rajmahal his capital before wars forced a change in administration.
    • Bernier’s Report (1666): Bernier described Rajmahal as a hunting ground and trading center, but due to the shifting Ganges and security issues, Dhaka became the new capital.

    Wars and Conflicts in Rajmahal

    • 1622 Revolt: Shahjahan rebelled against his father and engaged in conflicts in the Deccan, affecting Rajmahal.
    • Succession Conflicts: Rajmahal played an important role during the war for succession between Shuja and other royal princes.

    Expansion of the Mughal Empire

    • War of Succession (1657): A succession war between Shuja and other princes led to the shift of Bengal’s administrative center from Rajmahal to Dhaka.

  • “Ancient History of Jharkhand: Prehistoric to Early Dynasties (For JPSC & JSSC Exams)”

    Ancient History: Chhotanagpur Region

    1. Prehistoric Period

    Natural Cover of Chhotanagpur:

    • Covered with dense forests in prehistoric times.
    • Not completely isolated from the outside world.
    • Geographical advantage: Kaimur and Vindhya ranges protected it from northern invasions.

    Major Discoveries and Cultures:

    • Mangovind Banerjee noted archaeological similarities between the Indus Valley and Chhotanagpur plateau.
    • Indicates entry into Chalcolithic culture before the time of the prehistoric Asuras.
    • Copper axes discovered in:
      • Ranchi
      • Palamu
      • Manbhum
    • Samples preserved in Patna Museum.
    • Geologist J. Coggin Brown researched:
      • Gumla (Basia)
      • Palamu (Haa village) in 1915.

    Ancient Tribes:

    • Early tribes: Kharia, Birhor, Asur.
    • Later tribes: Munda, Oraon.
    • Intermediate tribes: Korwa.
    • Others: Chero, Kherwar, Bhumij, Santhal (later period).

    Tribal Migration and Origin:

    • Kharia and Birhor likely migrated via Kaimur hills.
    • Munda origin theories:
      • Displacement after Aryan arrival from Uttar Pradesh and Central India.
      • Migration from Tibet via Bihar.
    • Oraon: Possibly from South India; linguistic similarity to Tamil-Kannada.

    2. Early Historical Period

    Major Early Tribes:

    • Combined Bhumij and Santhal population in millions.
    • Aryans referred to them as “invisible”, “inhuman”, “dog worshippers”, etc.

    Tribal Distribution in Chhotanagpur:

    • Munda & Oraon: Chhotanagpur Khas
    • Ho tribe: Singhbhum
    • Bhumij: Manbhum
    • Birjia: Palamu

    3. Influence of Buddhism

    Spread:

    • Buddhist remains found in:
      • Dhanbad: Dalmi, Budhpur
      • Ranchi: Belwadag (near Khunti)
      • Gumla: Bano, Kutga village
      • Jamshedpur: Patamba village, Bhula place
      • Others: Ichagarh, Jonha waterfall

    Special Mention:

    • Ashoka’s edicts (2 & 13) mention the region as “Aatvi” or “Aatva”.
    • Emperors like:
      • Samudragupta
      • Kharvel (Kalinga) conducted campaigns through this region.
    • Chinese traveler Hiuen Tsang described Santhal Pargana (Rajmahal).
    • Shashank’s reign: Suppression of Buddhism, rise of Hinduism.

    4. Influence of Jainism

    Nirvana of Parshvanath:

    • 23rd Tirthankara Parshvanath attained Nirvana in 8th century BCE.
    • Location: Parshvanath hill, Giridih district.

    Major Jain Sites:

    • Pakbira
    • Tuisaama
    • Deoli
    • Pawanpur
    • Palma
    • Charra
    • Golmara
    • Kusai river bank
    • Palma

    Sources:

    • Jain idols discovered by:
      • Colonel Dalton
      • David Maktasian at Pakbira and Kusai river bank.

    5. Early Dynasties and Political Development

    Naga Dynasty:

    • Founded by Bhimkarna.
    • Vasudev temple at Korambe built during this time.

    Raksail Dynasty:

    • Ruled over Surguja and Palamu.
    • Later overthrown by the Chero tribe.

    Chero Dynasty:

    • Possibly a branch of Bhar tribe.
    • Francis Buchanan called them part of “Sunak family”.
    • Established rule in Palamu.

    Kharwar Dynasty:

    • Pratap Dhawal of Khayakhal dynasty ruled Japla.
    • Capital: Khayargarh, Shahabad.

    Formation of Munda State:

    • Sutna Pahan founded Sutiyanagkhand state.
    • Divided into seven forts:
      • Lohagarh (Lohardaga)
      • Hazaribagh
      • Palungarh (Palamu)
      • Sinhgarh (Singhbhum)
      • Kesalgarh
      • Surmuggarh (Surguja)
      • Mangarh (Manbhum)
    • Divided further into 21 parganas, including:
      • Omdanda
      • Doisa
      • Khukhara
      • Belsing
      • Tamar
      • Lohardih

    Notes:

    • After Buddhism’s decline, Hinduism and Jainism grew in influence.
    • By the 10th century, Hinduism had complete dominance in Chhotanagpur.
    • Pala dynasty rulers also had significant influence in the region.

  • “झारखंड का प्राचीन इतिहास: छोटानागपुर की जनजातियाँ, वंश, धर्म और सांस्कृतिक विकास | JPSC/JSSC के लिए महत्वपूर्ण नोट्स”

    1. प्रागैतिहासिक काल

    • छोटानागपुर का प्राकृतिक आवरण:
      प्रागैतिहासिक काल में छोटानागपुर घने जंगलों से आच्छादित था, परंतु यह क्षेत्र बाहरी दुनिया से पूरी तरह अलग नहीं था। इसकी भौगोलिक स्थिति ने इसे विशेष लाभ प्रदान किया — कैमूर और विंध्य पर्वत शृंखलाओं ने इसे उत्तर दिशा से होने वाले आक्रमणों से सुरक्षा दी।
    • प्रमुख खोजें और संस्कृतियाँ:
      • मानगोविंद बनर्जी के अनुसार, सिंधु घाटी और छोटानागपुर पठार की पुरातात्विक खोजों में गहरी समानता है। इससे संकेत मिलता है कि छोटानागपुर क्षेत्र प्रागैतिहासिक असुरों के समय से पहले ही चालकोलिथिक संस्कृति (ताँबे-पत्थर युग) में प्रवेश कर चुका था।
      • तांबे की कुल्हाड़ियाँ राँची, पलामू और मानभूम जिलों में पाई गई हैं। पटना संग्रहालय में भी इनके नमूने सुरक्षित हैं।
      • भूगर्भ वैज्ञानिक जे. काग्गिन ब्राउन ने 1915 में गुमला (बसिया) और पलामू (हा गाँव) में शोध किया था।
    • प्राचीन जनजातियाँ:
      • प्रारंभिक जनजातियाँ: खड़िया, बिरहोर, असुर।
      • बाद की जनजातियाँ: मुण्डा, उरांव।
      • मध्यवर्ती जनजातियाँ: कोरवा।
      • अन्य: चैरो, खेरवार, भूमिज, संथाल आदि परवर्ती काल के हैं।
    • जनजातीय प्रवास और उत्पत्ति:
      • खड़िया और बिरहोर संभवतः कैमूर की पहाड़ियों के रास्ते छोटानागपुर आए थे।
      • मुण्डा जनजाति की उत्पत्ति के दो मत हैं:
        1. उत्तर प्रदेश और मध्य भारत से आर्यों के आगमन के बाद विस्थापन।
        2. तिब्बत से बिहार होते हुए छोटानागपुर में आगमन।
      • उरांव संभवतः दक्षिण भारत के निवासी थे; उनकी भाषा में तमिल-कन्नड़ से समानता मिलती है।

    2. आरंभिक ऐतिहासिक काल

    • प्रमुख आरंभिक जनजातियाँ:
      भूमिज और संथाल की मिली-जुली जनसंख्या लाखों में थी। आर्य इन जनजातियों को ‘अदर्शनीय’, ‘अमानवीय’, ‘स्वान पूजक’ आदि कहते थे।
    • छोटानागपुर में जनजातीय वितरण:
      • मुण्डा और उरांव: छोटानागपुर खास।
      • हो जनजाति: सिंहभूम।
      • भूमिज: मानभूम।
      • बिरजिया: पलामू।

    3. बौद्ध धर्म का प्रभाव

    • प्रसार:
      झारखण्ड क्षेत्र में बौद्ध धर्म के कई अवशेष मिलते हैं:
      • धनबाद (दालमी, बुद्धपुर)।
      • राँची (खूँटी के पास बेलवादाग)।
      • गुमला (बानो, कुटगा ग्राम)।
      • जमशेदपुर (पतम्बा ग्राम, भूला स्थान)।
      • अन्य स्थान: ईचागढ़, जोन्हा जलप्रपात आदि।
    • विशेष उल्लेख:
      • मौर्य सम्राट अशोक के अभिलेखों (शिलालेख 2 और 13) में छोटानागपुर क्षेत्र का उल्लेख ‘आटवी’ या ‘आटवा’ के रूप में मिलता है।
      • समुद्रगुप्त और कलिंग के खारवेल जैसे सम्राटों ने इस क्षेत्र से होकर अभियानों का संचालन किया।
      • ह्वेनसांग ने संथाल परगना (राजमहल क्षेत्र) का वर्णन किया है।
      • शशांक के शासनकाल में बौद्ध धर्म का दमन हुआ और हिन्दू धर्म का प्रभुत्व स्थापित हुआ।

    4. जैन धर्म का प्रभाव

    • पार्श्वनाथ का निर्वाण:
      गिरिडीह जिले की पार्श्वनाथ पहाड़ी पर 8वीं शताब्दी ईसा पूर्व में 23वें तीर्थंकर पार्श्वनाथ का निर्वाण हुआ।
    • प्रमुख जैन स्थल:
      पाकबीरा, तुईसामा, देवली, पवनपुर, पलमा, चर्रा, गोलमारा, कुसाई नदी का तट, और पालमा।
    • स्रोत:
      • कर्नल डाल्टन और डेविड मकटासियन ने पाकवीरा और कुसाई नदी तट पर जैन मूर्तियों की खोज की थी।

    5. प्रारंभिक राजवंश और राजनीतिक विकास

    • नागवंश की स्थापना:
      • नागवंश का संस्थापक भीमकर्ण माना जाता है।
      • कोराम्बे में वासुदेव मंदिर का निर्माण भी इसी काल का है।
    • रक्सैल वंश:
      • सरगुजा और पलामू क्षेत्र में शासन किया।
      • बाद में चेरो जनजाति ने इन्हें अपदस्थ किया।
    • चेरो वंश:
      • सम्भवत: भार जनजाति की शाखा थे।
      • फ्रांसिस बुकानन के अनुसार, वे “सुनक परिवार” के सदस्य थे।
      • पलामू में चेरो वंश का शासन स्थापित हुआ।
    • खरवार वंश:
      • खयाखाल राजवंश के प्रताप धवल ने जपला क्षेत्र में शासन किया।
      • उनकी राजधानी शाहाबाद के खयारगढ़ में थी।
    • मुण्डा राज्य गठन:
      • सुतना पाहन ने “सुतियानागखण्ड” राज्य की स्थापना की।
      • सात गढ़ों में राज्य विभक्त किया गया:
        1. लोहागढ़ (लोहरदगा)
        2. हजारीबाग
        3. पालुनगढ़ (पलामू)
        4. सिंहगढ़ (सिंहभूम)
        5. केसलगढ़
        6. सुरमुगगढ़ (सुरगुजा)
        7. मानगढ़ (मानभूम)
      • इन्हें 21 परगनों में बांटा गया था, जैसे: ओमदंडा, दोइसा, खुखरा, बेलसिंग, तमाड़, लोहारडीह आदि।

    नोट्स:

    • बौद्ध धर्म के पतन के बाद हिन्दू धर्म और जैन धर्म का प्रभाव बढ़ा।
    • दशमी शताब्दी तक छोटानागपुर क्षेत्र में हिन्दू धर्म का पूर्ण प्रभुत्व स्थापित हो गया था।
    • पाल वंशीय शासकों ने भी इस क्षेत्र में काफी प्रभाव डाला।