Bandhavgarh National Park India

Bandhavgarh National Park History

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Bandhavgarh Fort

History of Bandhavgarh

Bandhavgarh National Park, located in the Umaria district of Madhya Pradesh, India, has a fascinating history that intertwines ancient mythology, royal heritage, and conservation efforts. Originally a hunting ground for the Maharajas of Rewa, it was declared a national park in 1968 to protect its rich biodiversity and the endangered Bengal tiger population.

The park’s name, Bandhavgarh, meaning “Brother’s Fort,” traces back to the Bandhavgarh Fort, an ancient fort situated within the park. According to legend, the fort was gifted by Lord Rama to his brother Lakshmana, linking Bandhavgarh’s history to the epic Ramayana. Archaeological evidence, such as ancient caves with inscriptions and rock paintings, confirms human presence dating back over 2,000 years. These inscriptions document various ruling dynasties, including the Maghas, Vakatakas, and later the Kalchuris, Sengars, and Baghels, with the Baghel dynasty reigning over the area until the 20th century.

During the Baghel rule, Bandhavgarh became known for its abundant wildlife. Maharaja Martand Singh of Rewa played a crucial role in transforming Bandhavgarh from a hunting reserve into a protected area, recognizing the importance of wildlife preservation, particularly for the Bengal tiger. His efforts led to the establishment of the park in 1968, spanning an initial area of 105 sq km, which was later expanded.

In 1993, Bandhavgarh became part of Project Tiger, an initiative to safeguard India’s tiger population. This marked a turning point in conservation, and Bandhavgarh’s tiger population grew, establishing it as one of India’s premier tiger reserves. The park now spans over 448 sq km, with a unique landscape of dense sal forests, bamboo groves, grasslands, and rocky hills, providing diverse habitats for wildlife. Bandhavgarh’s history as a royal hunting ground, combined with its transformation into a conservation area, gives it a unique legacy and makes it a cornerstone of India’s wildlife heritage.

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Rudderfish long-finned pikerazorfish menhaden paradise fish, barramundi oceanic flyingfish. Fangtooth yellowtail banded killifish seamoth triplefin blenny desert pupfish crocodile shark catfish cutlassfish broadband dogfish whalefish.

John Maclein

Rudderfish long-finned pikerazorfish menhaden paradise fish, barramundi oceanic flyingfish. Fangtooth yellowtail banded killifish seamoth triplefin blenny desert pupfish crocodile shark catfish cutlassfish broadband dogfish whalefish.

Rudderfish long-finned pikerazorfish menhaden paradise fish, barramundi oceanic flyingfish. Fangtooth yellowtail banded killifish seamoth triplefin blenny desert pupfish crocodile shark catfish cutlassfish broadband dogfish whalefish.

John Maclein

Rudderfish long-finned pikerazorfish menhaden paradise fish, barramundi oceanic flyingfish. Fangtooth yellowtail banded killifish seamoth triplefin blenny desert pupfish crocodile shark catfish cutlassfish broadband dogfish whalefish.

Rudderfish long-finned pikerazorfish menhaden paradise fish, barramundi oceanic flyingfish. Fangtooth yellowtail banded killifish seamoth triplefin blenny desert pupfish crocodile shark catfish cutlassfish broadband dogfish whalefish.

Rudderfish long-finned pikerazorfish menhaden paradise fish, barramundi oceanic flyingfish. Fangtooth yellowtail banded killifish seamoth triplefin blenny desert pupfish crocodile shark catfish cutlassfish broadband dogfish whalefish.

John Maclein