Nanded history

Nanded, located in the state of Maharashtra on the banks of the Godavari River, boasts a rich and centuries-old history. Known today as a significant spiritual centre, this city has traversed a long path of development, witnessing numerous rulers and cultural eras.

The history of the city is rooted in deep antiquity. It is believed to have originated during the reign of the Nanda dynasty, from which it may have derived its name. Later, during the reign of Emperor Ashoka, the city became part of the great Mauryan Empire. Its strategic location on the Deccan Plateau and on the banks of the bountiful Godavari River contributed to its development as a vital settlement.

Over the centuries, Nanded passed under the authority of various dynasties, each leaving its mark on its appearance and culture. Among them were:

• The Chalukyas and Rashtrakutas: Beginning in the 6th century, the city was part of powerful kingdoms of southern India.
• The Delhi Sultanate: In the early 14th century, Nanded was conquered and incorporated into the Delhi Sultanate, marking the arrival of Islamic influence in the region.
• The Maratha Confederacy: In the second half of the 17th century, the city became part of the Maratha Confederacy, and later became part of the Princely State of Hyderabad.

A pivotal moment in Nanded's history was its transformation into one of the principal pilgrimage centres for Sikhs. It was here in 1708 that the tenth Sikh Guru, Gobind Singh, spent his final days. In memory of this event, the majestic Hazur Sahib Gurudwara was erected on the riverbank in the 19th century, modelled after the famous Golden Temple in Amritsar. This event forever secured Nanded's status as a holy city, attracting pilgrims from all over the world.

Key Milestones in the History of Nanded

The history of Nanded is not merely a list of dates, but a living chronicle in which the destinies of great empires and spiritual movements are intertwined. Every turning point has left its unique mark on the architecture and culture of the city, turning it into the fascinating place that today attracts travellers and pilgrims globally.

• 4th-2nd Century BC — It is believed that the city emerged during the rule of the Nanda dynasty, and later became part of the powerful Mauryan Empire, laying the foundations of its centuries-old history.
• 6th-8th Century AD — The region comes under the control of the Chalukya dynasty, marking the flourishing of temple architecture on the Deccan Plateau, echoes of which are visible today.
• 8th-12th Century AD — Power successively passes to the Rashtrakuta and Yadava dynasties, which continue the cultural and economic development of the city.
• Early 14th Century — Conquest by the forces of the Delhi Sultanate brings Islamic influence to the region, enriching local culture and architecture with new motifs.
• 1708 — A turning point in history: the tenth and final Sikh Guru, Gobind Singh, spends his last days in Nanded and proclaims the holy book, the Guru Granth Sahib, as his eternal successor, forever transforming the city into a sacred centre of Sikhism.
• 1725 — Following the decline of the Mughal Empire, Nanded becomes part of the sovereign Princely State of Hyderabad, ensuring a period of stability and prosperity.
• 1832–1837 — By the order of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, the majestic Hazur Sahib Gurudwara is erected at the site of Guru Gobind Singh's cremation — the main symbol of the city and a centre of attraction for pilgrims.
• 1948 — After India gains independence, the Princely State of Hyderabad, including Nanded, joins the Indian Union, opening a new chapter in its history.
• 1956 — As a result of the reorganisation of states, Nanded becomes part of Bombay State, and in 1960 — the newly formed state of Maharashtra, where it remains to this day.
• 1994 — The establishment of the Swami Ramanand Teerth Marathwada University strengthens the city's status as an important educational hub in the region.

Stages of Nanded's Development: From Antiquity to Modernity

The development of Nanded is a story of transformation, where each historical period contributed to shaping its unique character. The city has journeyed from an ancient settlement to one of the key spiritual and educational centres of the state of Maharashtra.

• Transformation into a Spiritual Centre of Sikhism. The key event that defined the city's destiny was the stay of the tenth Sikh Guru, Gobind Singh, here in 1708. This turned Nanded into a holy place and one of the five major Takhats (Seats of Authority) of Sikhism. The construction of the majestic Hazur Sahib Gurudwara in the 19th century cemented the city's status as a vital pilgrimage centre, giving a powerful impetus to the development of infrastructure and the service sector.
• Centre of Sufi Culture. Alongside Sikhism, Sufism historically flourished in Nanded. The city and its surroundings are home to numerous revered Sufi shrines (Dargahs) that attract pilgrims. This cultural diversity enriched the traditions of the city and made it a place of interfaith dialogue.
• Agricultural Development. Located on fertile lands on the banks of the Godavari River, Nanded is historically an important agrarian centre. The cultivation of cotton, sorghum, bananas, and sugarcane forms the backbone of the regional economy and contributes to the development of the processing industry.
• Emergence as an Educational Hub. The founding of the Swami Ramanand Teerth Marathwada University in 1994 was a turning point in the city's modern history. This event strengthened Nanded's status as an important educational centre in the Marathwada region, attracting students and faculty from across the country and stimulating urban development.
• Industrial Growth. In the 20th century, the city began to actively develop as an industrial centre. Cotton processing plants, as well as edible oil and sugar production facilities, emerged. This growth contributed to urbanisation and an increase in population.
• Infrastructure Modernisation. In recent decades, active work has been underway in Nanded to improve urban infrastructure. The construction of new roads, bridges, and the development of public transport are aimed at making the city more comfortable for residents and the numerous pilgrims visiting its shrines annually.

The architectural appearance of Nanded represents a multi-layered canvas, upon which various historical eras and cultural movements have left their imprints. The urban development of the city did not follow a single plan but formed organically, reflecting its transformation from an ancient settlement into an important spiritual and administrative centre. While European styles like Gothic or Renaissance are absent, one can trace the rich history of Indian architecture here.

Major Architectural Highlights of Nanded

• Islamic and Deccani Architecture: With the arrival of the Delhi Sultanate and the subsequent influence of Mughal culture, the Indo-Islamic architectural style spread throughout the region. Its features are visible in the old mosques and Sufi shrines (Dargahs) scattered across the city. This style is characterised by domes, arched doorways, and restrained decoration. The Nanded Fort, though rebuilt many times, also bears elements of the defensive architecture of that period.
• Maratha Architecture: During the period when the city was under Maratha control, their utilitarian yet expressive style prevailed in construction. It was characterised by powerful stone fortifications, simple temple structures, and traditional urban houses (Wadas). These elements influenced the general layout of the city's old quarters.
• Sikh Monumental Architecture: Undoubtedly, the main architectural symbol of Nanded is the Hazur Sahib complex. Built in the 19th century, it is a magnificent example of Sikh architecture, incorporating elements of Mughal and Rajput styles. It is distinguished by pristine white marble walls, an abundance of decorative kiosks (Chhatris), and, of course, the majestic golden dome dominating the cityscape. This complex became the urban core around which the entire pilgrimage infrastructure eventually grew.
• Modern Development: The 20th and 21st centuries brought modern functional architecture to Nanded's appearance. The emergence of the Swami Ramanand Teerth Marathwada University, administrative buildings, hospitals, and new residential areas has shaped the modern face of the city. The new development contrasts with the historic centre, yet serves as evidence of Nanded's growing role as a significant educational and economic hub of the region.

The city of Nanded and its surroundings have for centuries been a cradle for many distinguished individuals whose influence extended far beyond the region and all of India. Their legacy spans spiritual, political, and cultural spheres, shaping the historical character of the city.

Guru Gobind Singh (1666–1708) — The tenth and final Sikh Guru, a warrior, poet, and philosopher. It was in Nanded that he spent the final days of his life and proclaimed the holy book, "Guru Granth Sahib," as the eternal Guru of the Sikhs. His presence turned Nanded into one of the most important pilgrimage centres for Sikhs worldwide, and the majestic Takhat Shri Hazur Sahib was erected at the site of his cremation.

Banda Singh Bahadur (1670–1716) — A distinguished Sikh military commander. Before meeting Guru Gobind Singh, he was an ascetic named Madho Das and had his monastery in Nanded. It was here in 1708 that he was initiated into Sikhism, received a new name, and was sent to Punjab to lead the struggle against the Mughal Empire, where he established the first Sikh state.

Shankarrao Chavan (1920–2004) — An influential Indian politician who twice served as the Chief Minister of the state of Maharashtra. He was one of the key political figures of the region and made a significant contribution to the development of Nanded. Many institutions in the city are named in his honour, including the Government Medical College and Hospital.

Ashok Chavan (born 1958) — The son of Shankarrao Chavan, who continued the political dynasty. He also served as the Chief Minister of Maharashtra and was repeatedly elected to Parliament from the Nanded constituency. His activities are closely linked to the modern political and social development of the city.

Narhar Kurundkar (1932–1982) — A renowned Marathi scholar, writer, critic, and social activist. He was a professor and the principal of the People's College in Nanded. Kurundkar left a rich literary legacy dedicated to political philosophy, history, and culture, and is considered one of the leading intellectuals of his time in Maharashtra.