Haryana, a state in northern India, has a rich historical and cultural heritage. It was carved out of the larger state of Punjab in 1966, following a long-standing demand for a separate state for Hindi-speaking regions.
1. Ancient and Medieval History
- Haryana has been a significant region since the Indus Valley Civilization (c. 2500 BCE), with sites like Rakhigarhi (one of the largest Harappan sites).
- It was part of the Kuru Kingdom in the Mahabharata era (around 1500 BCE), with places like Kurukshetra being central to the epic.
- During medieval times, it was ruled by the Delhi Sultanate and the Mughals. The Battle of Panipat (1526, 1556, 1761) shaped India’s history.
2. British Era and Pre-Independence
- After the Anglo-Sikh Wars (1845–49), the British annexed Punjab (including present-day Haryana).
- Haryana was part of the Punjab Province under British rule.
- The Hindi-speaking population in the region demanded separation from Punjabi-dominated areas.
3. Post-Independence and Formation of Haryana
After India’s independence (1947), the demand for a separate Hindi-speaking state grew stronger.
Key Events Leading to Formation:
- Punjab Reorganization Act (1966) – The Indian government passed this act to divide Punjab into:
- Punjab (Punjabi-speaking, Sikh-majority)
- Haryana (Hindi-speaking, Hindu-majority)
- Himachal Pradesh (hill regions)
- 1 November 1966 – Haryana was officially formed as a separate state.
- Chandigarh became a Union Territory and the shared capital of both Punjab and Haryana.
4. Important Acts Related to Haryana
- Punjab Reorganization Act, 1966 – Led to the creation of Haryana.
- Haryana Official Language Act, 1969 – Declared Hindi as the official language.
- Haryana Land Reforms Act – Aimed at reducing land inequality.
- Haryana Panchayati Raj Act – Strengthened local governance.
5. Modern Haryana (Post-1966)
- Economic Growth: Known for agriculture (Green Revolution), industries (Gurgaon-Faridabad belt), and IT hubs.
- Political Developments: Played a key role in national politics, with leaders like Devi Lal and Bhupinder Singh Hooda.
- Cultural Identity: Rich heritage in folk dances (Ghoomar), festivals, and sports (wrestling, hockey).
Conclusion
Haryana’s formation was a result of linguistic and administrative reorganization. Today, it is one of India’s most prosperous states, contributing significantly to agriculture, industry, and sports.