Kurukshetra – The Ancient Indian City

Kurukshetra is a city in the northern Indian state of Haryana, known for its historical and cultural significance. It is located around 160 kilometers northwest of Delhi and is believed to be the site of the epic battle of the Mahabharata, one of the most famous ancient Indian texts. The city has been a center of religious and cultural significance for thousands of years and is a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus.

Kurukshetra has a rich and varied history that dates back to ancient times. It is believed to have been founded by King Kuru, the ancestor of the Kauravas and Pandavas, two powerful clans that were central to the Mahabharata. According to legend, it was in Kurukshetra that Lord Krishna delivered his famous sermon, the Bhagavad Gita, to Arjuna, one of the heroes of the Mahabharata.

Archaeological evidence suggests that Kurukshetra has been inhabited since the Harappan period, around 2600-1900 BCE. Excavations conducted in and around Kurukshetra have revealed several important structures and artifacts that shed light on the ancient history of the city. Some of the major discoveries include the remains of a fortified town from the early Harappan period, a cemetery from the late Harappan period, and a number of pottery fragments, beads, and other artifacts from the ancient period.

One of the most important archaeological sites in Kurukshetra is the Jyotisar Temple, which is believed to be the site where Lord Krishna delivered his sermon. The temple is located on the outskirts of the city and is surrounded by a large pond. The temple itself is relatively modern, dating back to the 19th century, but the site has been revered by Hindus for thousands of years.

Another important archaeological site in Kurukshetra is the Bhishma Kund, which is located around 6 kilometers from the city center. The Bhishma Kund is believed to be the site where Bhishma, one of the heroes of the Mahabharata, lay on a bed of arrows after being mortally wounded in battle. The site is marked by a large pool of water and a temple dedicated to Bhishma.

The Sannihit Sarovar is another important pilgrimage site in Kurukshetra. It is believed to be the confluence of seven sacred rivers and is considered to be one of the holiest sites in Hinduism. The site is marked by a large pool of water and several temples and shrines dedicated to various deities.

In addition to its religious and cultural significance, Kurukshetra is also known for its association with the great warrior king, Prithviraj Chauhan. Prithviraj Chauhan was a powerful Rajput king who ruled over much of northern India in the 12th century. He is remembered for his bravery and military prowess, particularly his victories against the invading forces of the Afghan ruler, Muhammad Ghori.

Kurukshetra is also home to several important museums and cultural centers that showcase the city’s rich history and heritage. The Kurukshetra Panorama and Science Centre is a popular tourist attraction that features a panoramic painting of the Mahabharata, as well as exhibits on science and technology. The Kurukshetra War Museum is another important cultural center that showcases the weapons and equipment used by ancient Indian warriors.

In conclusion, Kurukshetra is a city of great historical and cultural significance that has been revered by Hindus for thousands of years. Its association with the Mahabharata, Lord Krishna, and other important figures of Indian history and mythology has made it a popular pilgrimage site