Bandhavgarh National Park is situated in Umaria district of Madhya Pradesh. The land is originally habituated by Baiga & Gonda tribe. It is a major contributor to tourism sector. Bandhavgarh is known to have highest density of tigers in the world.
Bandhvagarh: More than Just a National Park
Bandhavgarh is predominately renowned as a National Park, but little do we know that the place has is so much more than that. History has a funny way of always keeping itself relevant. The three tenses past, present and future, all are connected and cannot exist as a separate entity. History tells you the cause, present tells you the aftereffects and future is a mere possibility. To learn about a place one should know at least three things.
These are its history, its economy and its demography. Like any other place, Bandhavgarh has its own share of history attached to it. This expansive land has dozens of secrets in its store which are yet to be explored.Situated in Umaria district of Madhya Pradesh, the national park has over 165 Royal Bengal Tigers. Along with tigers, the national park is home to leopards, sloth bears, spotted deer, sambhar, Indian gaur, jackals, langur, or macaques.
Bandhavgarh is spread over thirty-two hills and expansive grasslands with flourishing vegetation.
History of Bandhavgarh
Mythology
Once the Shikhargarh (game reserve) of Maharajas of Rewa, this vast reserve of tigers holds a significant place in Hindu mythology. However, what is contrary is how the National Park came to inception. The story of how once a haven for tiger hunters became the protector of the same animal, shows how a human heart needs a disaster to change the course of his life.
Legend has it that Bandhavgarh fort was built by Lord Rama and was gifted to his brother Lakshman to keep a watch on Lanka. Hence the name Bandhavgarh came in existence, literally translating to ‘brother’s fort’.
Medieval History
Bandhavgarh has been the seat of power for the Chandela, Baghels and Rewa dynasties. Its history can be traced back to 12th century AD, when it first served as the capital of the Chandela dynasty. But soon after the fort was taken over by the Baghels and lastly to the Rewas, who are believed to be their descendants.The Rewas started ruling the land in around 1600s and played a major role in expansion of the fort. The fort was expanded and the premises was widened.
The expansion of forts was often seen as a strategy to display power and this belief still stands true.About 106 sq km of the reserve, functioned as the hunting ground of the Rewas. Every dynasty has its own set of lucky charms and Rewas had their own. According to the legend, it was considered auspicious for any ruler to hunt down at least 109 tigers and this gave birth to their tradition of tiger hunting. And if you can hunt more, then nothing like it.
However, it is something to ponder upon as to why the tiger population was not dwindling. Some locals say that ‘commoners’ were barred from entering the hunting grounds at that time. This could be the possible reason how the tigers survived this large scale hunting.
Modern History
Bandhavgarh is considered the origin of all the white tigers in the world. In 1951, Maharaja Martand Singh, was out for hunting and found a white tiger. He was reluctant to hunt this tiger and instead captured it. Now this white tiger is stuffed and displayed in the palace of the Maharajas of Rewa.
It is worth mentioning here that Maharja Martand Singh, the last ruler of Rewa dynasty, was the one who acceded his territory to the Union of India after independence.After the Rewas, in the late 19th century, it was the British who took over the royal fort and converted it into one of their barracks. The fort was used for their military and administrative purposes.
After independence, Bandhavgarh came under the jurisdiction of the Madhya Pradesh government but the Maharajas retained their hunting rights till 1968. However, some folklores have a different story to tell.
It is believed that once the Maharaja was out for hunt and falsely killed a pregnant tigress, since then the maharaja had a change of heart and vowed not to kill any tiger. And at last in 1968, Bandhavgarh was notified as a national park and in 1993 was declared a tiger reserve- under Project Tiger.
Also Read: Best Gates in Bandhavgarh
Demography of BANDHAVGARH
The land of Bandhavgarh has been habituated by tribes of Gonds and Baigas.
Baigas
Baiga tribes are recognized by their peculiar, ornate tattoo prints.
According to Madhya Pradesh Tourism department, the Baiga Tribe was first documented in a British army report of 1867. The report was prepared by Captain W.B.Thomson. It referred to Baiga tribe as, “the wildest of the tribes, inhabiting the most inaccessible hills and the remotest forests.” These tribes are recognized by their peculiar, ornate tattoo prints.
Gonds
Mukut, the traditional hat worn by Gond tribe is made from peacock feathers.
Historically, the first Gond kingdoms came up in the hilly regions of Madhya Pradesh in the 14th and 15th century AD. Rani Durgavati is the most revered warrior-queen of the tribe. Gonds are still one of the largest tribal groups in India. This tribal community is famous for its vibrant artworks.
Also Read: Tigers of Bandhavgarh
Economy OF BANDHAVGARH
According to Madhya Pradesh Economic Surveys conducted every year, the footfall of international and domestic travelers has been increasing every year after year. In the year 2022-23, the footfall has increased 6 times. And Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve broke all records with highest number of tourists in this season.
Demand of local produce from the villages has been increasing year after year.
Statistics have shown that the entire forest area of Madhya Pradesh generates revenue which is much more than the budget allotted for the parks’ development. And this trend is here to stay.
In short, Bandhavgarh has it all, the history, unique folklore of valor, a tale of the white tiger and what not. However, many more secrets are yet to be revealed. So stay tuned and watch out for more stuff like this on our page.
For a comfortable stay, consider booking a resort in Bandhavgarh National Park to enhance your wildlife experience.
Written by Richa Dhiryan
