History

The present Dantewada district has come into existence in 1998. Previously it was a Tehsil of Bastar district therefore it consists of all the essence of Bastar, in terms of rich tribal culture and life style. Virtually it is the southern part of the Bastar region thus the district is named as Dakshin Bastar Dantewada.

Even though this area had been unknown to the outer world due to the inaccessible geographical situation, ruins and remainings of ancient sculptures and temples in certain pockets of the district appeals to the lovers and researchers of History to spare their time and to dig deep into the glorious past of this area.

According to the famous epic, Ramayan, Ram 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.

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