History of Amravati, Maharashtra: From Prehistory to a Modern Hub

thenewsdirt
Mar 7
9 min read

History Amravati: From Prehistory to a Modern Hub

Amravati has been a witness to centuries of change, shaped by those who lived, ruled, and influenced the land.

From prehistoric communities leaving behind traces of their existence to the rise of powerful dynasties, colonial rule, and the fight for independence, its past is rooted in historical transitions.

Early Settlements and Archaeological Discoveries

The history of human presence in Amravati stretches back thousands of years, long before written records began documenting the region. Excavations have revealed traces of organised life in the area, shedding light on early communities that once thrived along the banks of rivers and fertile lands.

The discoveries at Phupgaon, a site in the Amravati district, provide a rare glimpse into the Iron Age, placing the region’s earliest known settlements between the 7th and 4th centuries BCE.

The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) conducted detailed excavations at Phupgaon between December 2018 and March 2019. The site, located along the Purna River, a tributary of the Tapi River system, revealed structural remains that offer valuable insights into the lives of its ancient inhabitants.

Unlike temporary dwellings seen in older nomadic groups, these settlements had circular structures with post holes, suggesting that people had begun to build durable homes. The presence of well-defined floors, hearths, and storage bins indicates that this was not a makeshift settlement but a planned community where people lived for extended periods.

One of the most striking findings from the site was the presence of storage pits with diameters ranging from 90 cm to 125 cm.

These were likely used for preserving food grains, a sign that the inhabitants practised agriculture and had the means to store their harvests. The presence of multiple hearths suggests that cooking was done in specific areas, reinforcing the idea of an organised settlement rather than scattered dwellings.

The excavation also uncovered a variety of artefacts that paint a picture of the daily lives and skills of these early settlers.

Beads made from agate, carnelian, jasper, and quartz were found at the site, pointing to craftsmanship and possibly even trade. The presence of iron and copper objects suggests that metallurgy had already taken root, with people using metal for tools, weapons, or ornaments. Pottery fragments bearing graffiti-like marks were another significant discovery.

These markings could have been a form of early communication, symbols, or decorative elements, indicating a society that had begun to develop distinct cultural expressions.

Phupgaon is not the only Iron Age site in the Vidarbha region to reveal such findings. Other settlements, including Naikund, Mahurjhari, Bhagimori, and Thakalkat, share similar characteristics, suggesting that this was part of a larger cultural zone where early communities had already begun forming structured societies.

The people who lived here were not simply hunters or gatherers but had adopted a lifestyle that combined agriculture, craftsmanship, and domestic activities, making use of the land’s resources to sustain themselves.

The location of these settlements near the Purna River played a crucial role in their development. Access to water would have been essential for farming, cooking, and daily activities.

The river likely provided fish and other resources, further supporting the community’s needs. The choice to settle in this area suggests that people were aware of the advantages of living near a steady water source, marking a shift towards a more settled way of life.

These discoveries provide concrete evidence of an early population that had already begun establishing structured living spaces, working with metal, and crafting items with skill. The presence of pottery, tools, and ornaments suggests that these were not isolated groups but part of a larger network of settlements across the Vidarbha region.

Each excavation adds another piece to the puzzle of Amravati’s ancient past, revealing a time when early societies had begun shaping the landscape in ways that would influence the generations that followed.

The Growth of Amravati as a Historical Centre

Amravati's evolution from an early settlement into a recognised town is marked by historical records and inscriptions that trace its importance over the centuries. The region's name has changed over time, reflecting shifts in language and culture.

The earliest known reference to Amravati appears in inscriptions where it was called "Audumbaravati" in Prakrit. This later evolved into "Umravati" before taking its present form.

Religious and cultural significance played a role in shaping the town’s identity. The Ambadevi temple, one of the oldest landmarks in the city, indicates that Amravati had become a centre for spiritual and social gatherings. The temple’s existence points to the presence of a settled population that valued places of worship and communal activities.

By the 11th century, Amravati had gained enough prominence to be recorded in historical artefacts.

A stone inscription found on a marble idol of Adinath Rishabhnath mentions the town, marking its presence in recorded history.

This discovery confirms that the region was not an isolated settlement but had established connections with broader cultural and religious movements. Jain influences, as reflected in this inscription, suggest that the town had become home to a diverse population with different beliefs and traditions.

During the 13th century, Amravati was under the control of the Yadava dynasty, which ruled from Deogiri, now known as Daulatabad. The Yadavas were a significant power in Maharashtra, and their administration extended across several important towns. Amravati, being a part of their domain, benefited from their governance and likely saw developments in trade, infrastructure, and local administration.

However, the region faced a significant setback in the 14th century when a severe famine struck, forcing many residents to leave.

Historical records indicate that people migrated in large numbers to Gujarat and Malwa in search of better conditions. This period of distress reduced the population, and it took years for Amravati to recover from the impact. Those who stayed behind had to adapt to difficult conditions until stability returned.

By the 17th century, the region saw new rulers bringing administrative and cultural changes. The Mughal Empire, under Emperor Aurangzeb, had extended its control over large parts of the Deccan, and Amravati came under its influence.

During this time, Aurangzeb allocated land in Magar Aurangpura, now Sabanpura, for the construction of a Jama Masjid. This shows that Amravati had become a multi-religious town with an expanding population.

The decline of Mughal power in the early 18th century led to another shift in control. With the empire weakening, the Marathas expanded their reach, bringing Amravati under their administration.

This marked the beginning of a new chapter, where the city’s fortunes would rise again under Maratha leadership.

Maratha Rule and British Intervention

The early 18th century marked a significant shift in Amravati’s political landscape as the Marathas extended their influence over the region.

With the weakening of Mughal control following the death of Emperor Aurangzeb in 1707, the Marathas gained authority in several parts of central India, including Amravati.

The city came under their administration in 1722 when Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj granted control of the region, including Badnera, to Ranoji Bhonsle.

Ranoji Bhonsle played a crucial role in strengthening Amravati. His leadership saw the reconstruction of key areas and the establishment of administrative structures that helped the town develop into an important centre. His military successes, including victories in battles such as the conquest of Gavilgad Fort, further reinforced his control over the region.

The treaties of Devgaon and Anjangaon Surji secured his position, and Amravati became known as "Bhonsle ki Amravati," a title that reflected his role in shaping the city’s fortunes.

As Amravati grew, its economy strengthened. The town developed into a hub for trade, attracting merchants and artisans. The stability provided by the Maratha rule allowed for expansion in agriculture, commerce, and governance. However, this period of progress faced new challenges in the early 19th century with the arrival of the British.

The British East India Company, which had already gained a foothold in many parts of India, turned its attention to the Deccan.

A decisive moment came on 15 December 1803, when British forces captured Gavilgad Fort after a battle against the Marathas. This marked the beginning of British control over the region.

Following the Treaty of Deogaon, the British handed over the Warhad region, including Amravati, to the Nizam of Hyderabad. This arrangement, however, was not permanent, as the British continued to expand their influence.

During this time, Amravati faced security threats from external forces. In 1805, the city was attacked by Pendhari raiders, a group known for their plundering expeditions.

To prevent further destruction, wealthy merchants of Amravati paid a ransom of seven lakh rupees to Chittu Pendhari, a leader of the raiders.

As the British tightened their grip, they took full administrative control of the region in 1859, integrating it into their governance system. Amravati was designated as the headquarters of East Berar District, marking the beginning of a new phase in its history. Under British rule, significant changes took place in infrastructure and governance.

The first railway station in Amravati was established in 1859, facilitating trade and transport. The construction of the commissioner’s bungalow in 1860, the main post office in 1871, and the small cause court in 1886 further strengthened the town’s administrative framework.

An area still known as "Camp" today was once the site of British General Wellesley’s encampment, a reminder of the colonial military presence in the city.

British rule also introduced changes in education, law, and communication. Standardisation of the Marathi language and the introduction of printing technology allowed for the spread of newspapers and books.

The British legal system was implemented, and modern governance structures replaced older administrative methods.

Despite these developments, Amravati did not remain untouched by the struggles of the Indian independence movement. The town’s role in the nationalist struggle became more prominent in the following decades as local leaders and residents joined the fight for self-rule. The period of British intervention laid the groundwork for future transformations, but it also set the stage for resistance against colonial rule.

Freedom Struggle and Post-Independence Growth in Amravati

Amravati played an important role in India’s fight for independence, with several local leaders and activists contributing to the nationalist movement. The city became a centre for political discussions, protests, and efforts aimed at achieving self-rule.

By the late 19th century, it was already involved in major events that shaped the larger movement against colonial rule.

In December 1897, Amravati hosted the 13th session of the Indian National Congress, a significant gathering that brought national leaders such as Mahatma Gandhi and Lokmanya Tilak to the city.

The event strengthened the political awareness of the local population and linked Amravati to the broader struggle for freedom. Prominent leaders from the region, including Moropant Joshi, Dadasaheb Khaparde, Pralhad Pant Jog, and Ranganath Pant Mudhodker, actively participated in the movement, organising campaigns and supporting nationalist activities.

Subhash Chandra Bose, another key figure in the fight for independence, had connections to Amravati. He inaugurated the Municipal A.V. High School in the city, further strengthening the ties between local leaders and the national movement. The headquarters for the ‘Savinay Awagya Andolan’ (Civil Disobedience Movement) was also located here, reinforcing the city’s role as a centre for political activism.

Amravati also contributed to the famous Salt Satyagraha. On 26 April 1930, water for the movement was sourced from Dahihanda, a village near the city.

While a small act in itself, this event demonstrated the region’s involvement in the larger resistance against British policies.

The push for independence intensified with the Quit India Movement in 1942. Protests, strikes, and boycotts were organised across Maharashtra, and Amravati was no exception. Residents participated in demonstrations, demanding an end to British rule. The growing unrest, combined with the efforts of leaders across the country, eventually led to India gaining independence in 1947.

Following independence, Amravati underwent significant changes in administration and development. Initially, it was part of Bombay State, but in 1960, it was incorporated into the newly formed Maharashtra State after the reorganisation of states based on linguistic lines. This transition brought administrative stability and paved the way for further growth.

One of the key milestones in Amravati’s post-independence development came on 5 February 1981, when it was designated as a divisional headquarters.

This decision gave the city administrative authority over several districts, including Akola, Yeotmal, Washim, and Buldhana. The change brought an increase in government offices and services, strengthening Amravati’s role in regional governance.

Further expansion took place on 15 August 1983, with the establishment of the Amravati Municipal Corporation. The new civic body covered an area of 121.65 square kilometres, integrating the previously separate municipal councils of Amravati and Badnera. Eighteen surrounding revenue villages were also brought under its jurisdiction, creating a larger urban area that required coordinated planning and development.

With the rise in population and economic activities, the need for urban planning became more evident.

By the early 1990s, a revised Development Plan was sanctioned in 1992 under the Maharashtra Regional and Town Planning Act of 1966.

This addressed issues related to infrastructure, housing, and transportation, ensuring that the city could accommodate future growth.

Industrial and educational sectors also saw expansion in the decades following independence. Factories, markets, and institutions for higher education were established, bringing employment opportunities and improving the overall quality of life. Roads, public transport, and civic amenities were developed to meet the needs of the growing population.

While Amravati continued to modernise, it retained connections to its historical past.

Landmarks such as the Ambadevi temple remained central to religious and cultural life, while colonial-era structures served as reminders of the city’s time under British rule. The expansion of industries, administration, and education shaped Amravati into a key centre in Maharashtra, reflecting its journey through different periods of history.