The History of Dantewada and Bastar

The present Dantewada district has come into existence in 1998. Previously it was a Tehsil of Bastar district therefore it consists of all the Bastaria features. Virtually it is the southern part of the Bastar region which is known as South Bastar where Bastaria culture is still alive.

Even though this area has been unknown to the outer world due to its inaccessible geographical situation, it has got a glorious heritage. According to the famous epic of India, Ramayan, Ram the hero of the epic had taken shelter here during his exile. This place, known as Dandkaranya in those days, has thus been associated with Ram as his Karmabhumi (the land of destiny).

Inhabitants of Sindhughati (The Banks of Sindhu River) separated from Prag Dravidians in 1500 B.C. One section of this separated group who reached Bastar was mentioned in ancient Sanskrit Literature as Dravid Speaking “Nag” . Chhindak Nags were the ancestors of modern Gonds. Bastar has been a colony of Satwahana rulers from 72 BC to 200 AD. Traces of flourishing of Buddhism and Jainism before Nala dynasty can be seen in this region.

Tribal republican ruling system had been here in this area from 600 B.C to 1324 A.D., during the periods of Nalas(350-760) & Nagas(760-1324) which is worth mentioning. The system had gradually been ruined in later periods. The down-fall of this ruling system was much more during the period of Chalukya (1324-1774) destroying the splendid tradition of Gonds. The entry of outsiders had laid the foundation of Feudalism in this region, which created inertness and obstacles in development for five centuries continuously.