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Oct 26, 2024
Chandrahas Halai

Naneghat: A Slice of Indian History

"Hey, Chandrahas! What is such a huge stone pot doing over here?" My adventure trek-loving friend Ashok Bhanushali wondered. - "Ashok, this is a 2200-year-old trade route which connects the Deccan plateau's Junnar (District Pune) with the Kalyan city of the coastal plains of north Konkan. This mountain pass, Naneghat (नाणेघाट) (160 km east of Mumbai and 120 km north of Pune) was a toll booth on this trade route. Merchants passing this toll booth used to put silver coins into this pot carved out of a huge rock to pay their taxes. That is how this mountain pass got its name Naneghat (नाणे means cash in Marathi). In today’s times, the locals call it जकातीचा रंजन, meaning tax-collectors delight.” “There is an ancient port on the Ulhas River at Kalyan city through which it flows. The Ulhas River meets the Arabian Sea near Nala Sopara. Ancient name of Nala Sopara was Supara. Supara was an ancient seaport through which maritime trade was conducted with Western nations. It is also mentioned in the Old Testament. King Solomon’s fleet used to frequent Supara to purchase Indian goods." Though Naneghat is a lesser-known place it is very important from a historical point of view. Hence, during one monsoon season when Ashok informed me that coming Sunday our trekking group would be going to Naneghat I became pretty excited. As per our plans, early Sunday morning we left for Naneghat in Ashok's car. After reaching Kalyan we took the road to Ahilyanagar (formerly Ahmednagar). After a while, our car crossed the bridge on the river Ulhas and I noticed boats sailing in the river below. A thought crossed my mind that two millenniums ago merchants used to send their cargo on boats from here to faraway lands. It was as if I had done a journey of thousands of years in a moment. Moving in the direction of Murbad we could see the green covering getting dense on both sides of the road. The weather was becoming pleasant. In between it drizzled. After crossing Murbad, the forest cover became even more dense. We could spot the beautiful mountains of Malshej ghat and Naneghat from afar. We could hear the music of the streams flowing by on both sides of the road. Enjoying the enchanting nature in a short while we reached Vaishakhare village. Malshej ghat starts from here. After covering a short distance, we reached the base of Naneghat. A huge board informing us that this is a 2200-year-old ancient trade route welcomed us. From here began our Naneghat trek. We walked on the trail covered with thick vegetation. Light showers were falling. We were breathing in refreshing pollution-free air. On the way, we encountered three guzzling streams. After a short distance, we had a slight climb. After the climb, we reached a plateau. From here we got a very beautiful view of the peak of Naneghat. To reach the top of the mountain, steps are hewn from the rocks. While climbing the steps we were enjoying the beautiful view of the green valley below. To quench the thirst of the travellers around 2000 years ago the members of the royal family of the Satavahanas had carved a water tank from the rocks at a height slightly below the peak. After resting for a while near the water tank we again started climbing the steps. After a while, we reached the peak. From here, we could see the amazing beauty of the valley below. Since Naneghat is at an altitude of 750m above the mean sea level you can see afar from here. There are some rock-cut caves here. Water tanks have been carved out for rainwater harvesting so that water is available throughout the year for travellers. We entered the main cave. The sculptures of the Satavahana royals were carved out of the rocks, but the time of several centuries has taken its toll. There are inscriptions on the walls of the main cave. “Chandrahas, these inscriptions are in which language?” asked my friend Mangal Bhanushali ji, who is a social worker and an ex-corporator from Ghatkopar, Mumbai. “Mangal bhai, this is Sanskrit written in the Brahmi script.” “Chandrahas, what does it say?” asked my mountaineering trainer friend, Pushpa Patel. “Pushpa Ben, some of the most significant historical information regarding our country is inscribed here.” My friends requested me to say more about this. “Let’s cross over to the other side of the pass. I will tell you everything I know about this while having tea and snacks.” A path has been carved out near the peak of the hill. After crossing this path, we reached the Deccan plateau. Here, we saw the huge rock pot, that I had mentioned at the beginning of the article welcoming us to the Deccan plateau. This is a beautiful place with pleasant weather. We saw a beautiful hill some 2- 3 kilometres away from here. Jivdhan Fort is perched at the peak of the hill. We sat for tea and snacks at a small eatery. “Chandrahas, now tell us about the inscriptions at the cave,” said Pushpa Ben excitedly. After the decline of the Mauryans, the Satavahanas (सातवाहन) rose in power in central Bharat. They ruled over most of the central Bharat (today’s Maharashtra, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, north Karnataka, south Madhya Pradesh and south Gujarat) from 228 BCE to 224 CE. Puranas have called the Satavahana kings as the आंध्र भृत्य, means the ones who served the Andhra Desha. The Satavahana dynasty laid the foundation of today’s Andhra Pradesh and Telangana states. Around 2100 years ago, the northern Maharashtra was ruled by the Maharathi (महारथी) dynasty. The word Marathi (मराठी) is the distorted from Maharathi. The citizens of the Maharathi kingdom spoke Prakrit. Old Marathi had evolved from Prakrit. The citizens of the Maharathi kingdom used to call themselves Maharashtri (महाराष्ट्री). It is from this that the name of the modern state of Maharashtra is derived. In our country marriage is not just a union of two individuals but also of two families. In ancient times when two royal families were tied through marriage alliances, even their kingdoms would get interlinked. Such marriage alliances between two royal families not only benefitted the two kingdoms but also turned around the fortune of the entire nation. Satavahana king Satakarni I (सातकर्णी १) (rule 70-60 BCE) had married princess Naganika Devi (नागनिका देवी), the daughter of Maharathi king Trankayira. Due to this marriage alliance, the Satavahanas grew in power and they spread their boundaries in all directions. The capital of the Satavahanas was initially Prastisthana (प्रतिष्ठान), today’s Paithan in Sambhaji Nagar district (formerly Aurangabad). Later they shifted it to Amravati in today’s Andhra Pradesh. The Satavahanas had provided political stability in central Bharata for more than 300 years. This political stability and security boosted trade and commerce, which brought prosperity to the nation and its citizens. Due to this arts, literature, culture and sciences evolved. Indian goods like spices, silk, cloth, artefacts, etc. had a great demand in foreign lands. Pliny, a Roman author, naturalist, philosopher, army and naval commander (CE 23/24 - 79) had written that there was such a huge demand for Indian goods in the Roman empire that the Romans were splurging all their gold and silver on them. So much so that there used to be shortages of gold and silver in Rome to mint the coins. This is the reason why Bharata was called the golden sparrow. Ptolemy, a Greek geographer and citizen of the Roman Empire visited Bharata in the second century CE. He recorded a lot of information about the Satavahanas in his writings. He had also visited Naneghat. He says that so much of silver coins were put in the rock pot that they overflowed. It was as if a stream of silver was flowing. It was Queen Naganika Devi who had given the funds to carve the caves and the water tanks at Naneghat for the comfort of travellers. From the inscriptions here we get significant information about the Satavahana dynasty. There is information about the yagnas (like Ashwamedh, Rajasuya, etc.) conducted by the royal couple – King Satakarni I and Queen Naganika Devi. There is also a listing of the donations and gifts given by the king and the queen during the various yagnas. Around 150 years ago two ancient silver coins were found in these caves. These two coins bear the name of Queen Naganika Devi. This was the first instance in world history when coins were minted in the name of the queen. There is one more significant aspect of the Naneghat inscriptions. It is one of the oldest archaeological pieces of evidence of one of the most significant inventions that revolutionised science, engineering, architecture, trade-commerce etc. This is one of the most precious gifts of Bharata to the world – a decimal place-value number system. The count of the things given in gifts and donations was inscribed here in Brahmi numerals. Vehicles driving from Junnar can reach to almost the edge of the cliff of Naneghat. Though Naneghat is somewhat less known, it is one of the most significant places from a historical perspective.

Oct 25, 2024
Dr Ryan Baidya

Why Sanatan-Hindu Must Take Active Part Role in Politics

It’s election season in both the USA and India, and these two democracies seem to be moving forward with somewhat reluctant participation from their citizens. While there are many valid reasons for this hesitation, choosing not to exercise the most powerful right—the right to vote—is ultimately harmful, both to individuals and to the democratic systems of their respective nations. Many citizens distance themselves from politics altogether, often to avoid being associated with any particular side. However, the idea of being "out of politics" is more complex than it seems. In reality, even those who actively avoid political involvement are still affected by political decisions. Politics shapes almost every aspect of daily life— from taxes and laws to education, healthcare, infrastructure, and personal freedoms. Even passive actions, such as not voting or staying silent on issues, constitute a form of political behaviour. By remaining quiet, citizens may unintentionally allow certain policies, leaders, or social trends to gain momentum. This so-called "apolitical" stance can often be seen as a tacit acceptance of the status quo or an implicit endorsement of those in power. Moreover, as social beings, people inevitably engage with political issues, whether through their consumption habits, career choices, or social media interactions. It’s nearly impossible to be completely detached from politics, even for those who don’t actively participate. This issue is especially concerning in India, where many Sanatan (Hindu) citizens seem hesitant or even ashamed to engage in politics. This widespread disengagement is deeply rooted in cultural, educational, and historical factors. Understanding and addressing this near-epidemic avoidance of politics among Sanatan citizens is crucial to ensuring a more inclusive political future in India. Politics is often perceived as something distant, divisive, or even “dirty,” especially by many educated and socially conscious Sanatan citizens of India. However, in reality, their daily lives are deeply intertwined with political systems and processes, whether they are aware of it or not. From paying taxes to sending children to school, their actions and decisions are inherently political. In this article, we will explore three key aspects: First, how modern Sanatan citizens are already participating in politics through their daily lives; second, why many feel ashamed or brainwashed into avoiding politics; and finally, how and why they should consciously engage with politics since they are already a part of it. How Educated Sanatan Citizens of India Are Unknowingly Involved in Politics Even though many modern Sanatan citizens may claim to stay out of politics, every aspect of their lives is shaped by political decisions. Let’s break down how their daily activities are deeply political. Taxes and Economic Policies Taxes on goods and services: Every time you buy groceries, eat out, or purchase anything from an electronic gadget to a piece of clothing, you pay a Goods and Services Tax (GST). This tax rate, which impacts the price of almost everything, is a direct result of government policies. Income taxes and investments: Your salary deductions and tax savings through schemes like the National Pension Scheme (NPS), Employee Provident Fund (EPF), or investments in the Public Provident Fund (PPF) are all dictated by the government. Your financial stability is directly tied to political decisions regarding tax laws. Education and School Curricula The schooling system: Whether your children attend private or government schools, the curriculum they follow is regulated by government educational bodies like CBSE, ICSE, or state boards. These curricula reflect the priorities and values set by educational policies, which are inherently political. Higher education: The quota system, government scholarships, and the regulation of universities and colleges are all part of the political machinery. The availability of opportunities in education is shaped by the politics of resource allocation and policy priorities. Healthcare and Public Services Access to healthcare: Whether you access healthcare through government schemes like Ayushman Bharat or private medical care, political decisions have a significant impact. Policies surrounding drug pricing, hospital regulations, and even the construction of healthcare infrastructure are political choices that affect you. Utilities and infrastructure: The roads you drive on, the electricity you consume, the water you drink—all are provided or regulated by the government. Political leadership determines the quality of infrastructure and services you receive. Employment and Labour Laws Job markets and economic policies: Political decisions affect the job market, economic growth, and industry regulations. Whether you are employed in the private or public sector, your employment conditions, labour laws, minimum wage, and work benefits are shaped by political frameworks. Social security: Pension schemes, job reservations, maternity leave policies, and more are all the result of political decisions affecting your professional life and financial future. Rights and Freedoms Legal protections: The fundamental rights you enjoy—freedom of speech, the right to privacy, and protection from discrimination—are guaranteed by the Indian Constitution, a political document that is continuously shaped by political debates and legal reforms. Voting rights: Even if you choose not to vote, the very option to participate in elections is a political right. Whether or not you exercise this right, it is the foundation of democratic politics. Clearly, whether consciously or not, modern Sanatan citizens of India are already deeply involved in politics. Every decision they make—where they live, how they spend their money, which schools they send their children to, and how they plan their financial future—hinges on political policies and governance. Why Sanatan Citizens Feel Ashamed or Brainwashed to Avoid Politics Despite this obvious involvement in politics, many educated Sanatan citizens have grown to believe that they should steer clear of political discussions. This aversion stems from several deeply rooted factors: Colonial Legacy and Mistrust of Politics Colonial hangover: The British colonial era instilled a deep mistrust of politics among many Indians, especially the middle and upper classes. The colonial system of governance was exploitative and corrupt, leading many to believe that politics itself is inherently corrupt and undesirable. Moral disillusionment: After independence, politics in India became increasingly associated with corruption, favouritism and vote-bank politics. This perception has led to widespread cynicism and an instinctive avoidance of political involvement among many Sanatan citizens. Educational and Cultural Conditioning Textbook narratives: The Indian education system, influenced heavily by post- independence governments, has largely focused on promoting certain narratives, often sidelining or vilifying Hindu contributions and perspectives. This has created an environment where many Sanatan citizens feel that their cultural identity is incompatible with political discourse. Secularism as an anti-Hindu stance: Secularism in India, as practised in political discourse, often led to the marginalisation of Hindu concerns, pushing many Sanatan citizens into a corner. The fear of being branded communal has made many shy away from asserting their views in public political debates. Cultural conditioning of non-involvement: Hindu teachings often emphasise individual spirituality and personal development, which has, in modern times, been misunderstood as an encouragement to avoid worldly affairs like politics. This misinterpretation has contributed to the widespread belief that politics is somehow beneath the spiritual or moral aspirations of Hindus. Fear of Polarisation and Stigma Fear of being labelled communal: In the post-independence political landscape, advocating for Hindu rights or even talking about issues from a Sanatan perspective was often branded as "communalism." This has made many educated Sanatan citizens feel ashamed or guilty about engaging in politics out of fear of being labelled as regressive or divisive. Polarised environment: The increasingly polarised political environment, where every issue is framed as “left vs. right” or “secular vs. communal,” discourages rational discourse. This makes people fear that speaking out on political issues will drag them into unwanted controversy. How and why Sanatan citizens should consciously participate in politics Given Sanatan citizens are already deeply affected by political processes and decisions, they must engage more consciously and constructively. Here’s why and how they should participate in the nation’s politics: Reclaim Politics as Dharma (Duty) Politics as part of Dharma: Sanatan teachings do not suggest withdrawal from the world. On the contrary, they encourage fulfilling one’s duty (Dharma) towards society. Politics is a necessary part of shaping the nation’s ethical and moral framework, and every citizen has a duty to contribute to this process. Align political engagement with values: Politics need not be a dirty game if approached with integrity. Sanatan citizens can engage in politics by focusing on ethical governance, transparency, and the welfare of society. They can help shape a political system based on truth, fairness, and justice—values central to Sanatan Dharma. Understand the Consequences of Political Apathy Protecting rights and freedoms: Political disengagement comes at a cost. Policies that affect religious freedoms, cultural preservation, or education systems can be shaped by forces that do not represent Sanatan interests if they are not engaged. Representation matters: By not participating in politics, Sanatan citizens allow others to make decisions on their behalf. It’s vital to have representation in the political process to ensure that their voices are heard, and their needs are addressed. Political participation can prevent the erosion of cultural and religious rights that have already been marginalized in various ways. Start at the Local Level Engage in local governance: Begin by participating in local issues—municipal elections, community boards, or local political movements. This is where political engagement can feel most tangible and directly impactful. Raise issues of concern: Whether it’s temple management, educational reform, or local infrastructure, Sanatan citizens should raise these issues in public forums. Engaging with local politics helps cultivate a sense of empowerment and responsibility. Contribute to Nation-Building Be proactive, not reactive: Instead of only reacting to perceived threats or injustices, Sanatan citizens should adopt a proactive approach. They can promote values such as environmental protection, social justice, and good governance while contributing positively to national debates. Strengthen democratic institutions: Encourage the use of democratic tools like voting, public advocacy, and civic engagement. By doing so, Sanatan citizens can play a crucial role in strengthening India’s democratic institutions and ensuring they serve all citizens fairly. Create Safe Spaces for Political Discourse Encourage open, non-partisan discussions: Political engagement doesn’t always have to be aligned with one political party or ideology. Sanatan citizens can promote open, non-partisan discussions on national issues, fostering a more inclusive, constructive dialogue. Use social media responsibly: Social media is a powerful tool for political participation. Sanatan citizens can use it to share informed opinions, raise awareness of issues, and participate in public discourse without falling into the trap of polarization. In conclusion, educated Sanatan citizens of India are already deeply enmeshed in politics, even if they are unaware of it. From their economic choices to their children’s education, politics shapes every aspect of their lives. However, many have been conditioned to avoid politics, often due to colonial legacies, cultural misunderstandings, or fear of polarisation. It is time for Sanatan citizens to consciously engage in politics, not just as a right, but as a duty to their nation. By reclaiming politics as a space for ethical engagement, they can help shape a future that reflects their values, preserves their rights and strengthens India’s democracy.