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Historical background of the State

Antiquity of Madhya Pradesh goes back to the dawn of history. Widely distributed rock shelter paintings present an eloquent testimony of its hoary past. Madhya Pradesh which forms central India is associated with some famous names in Indian History.

Emperor Ashoka began his career from Ujjain. Major portion of Central India formed part of the Gupta Empire (300-550 AD). In the first half of the seventh century it was part of domains of famous emperor Harsha. The close of tenth century was a period of confusion.

In the early eleventh century the muslims entered central India, First Mahmud of Ghazni & then Mohammad Gori who incorporated certain parts with Sultanate of Delhi. It also formed part of Mughal empire with the rise of Maratha's. Till the death of Madhoji Scindia in 1794, Marathas ruled supreme in Central India, but after that independent & smaller states came into being. The disintegrated smaller states paved way for British suzerainty. Some great women rulers like Rani Ahilyabai Holkar of Indore, Gond queen Rani Kamla devi & Rani Durgawati have carved a nick for them in history.

Madhya Pradesh in its present form was created in 1956 out of former states of Madhya Bharat, Vindhya Pradesh, Bhopal and fourteen ( Mahakoshal) districts of old Madhya Pradesh.

History Festivals Awards National Parks