Junagadh

The book "Junagadh" by Dhanvant Oza, published by Navchetan Prakashan Gruh, is part of the "Gujarat Parichay Granthmala" (Gujarat Introduction Series). This series aims to introduce readers, particularly students, to the cultural, social, and political aspects of Gujarat.

The book highlights Junagadh as a city with a continuous history spanning over 2,500 years. It emphasizes its rich historical significance, mentioning:

• Ancient History: Its connection to the time of Lord Krishna and the Mauryan Empire.
• Historical Sites: Features like Uparkot (an ancient fort), Navghan Kuvo (a well), Buddhist caves, Ashoka's edicts, Rudradaman's inscriptions, and the Sunudarshan Lake.
• Key Historical Figures: Mentions of Ashoka, Chandragupta Maurya, Rudradaman, Skandagupta, the Chudasama dynasty (including Ra' Mandlik), Sultan Mahmud Begada, and the Mughal rulers.
• Religious and Cultural Significance: Its association with important religious sites like Girnar, Damodar Kund, and the temples of various deities. It also notes the influence of Jainism and Buddhism in the region.
• Literary Heritage: The book highlights Junagadh as the birthplace of the renowned Gujarati poet Narsinh Mehta, composer of the famous "Vaishnav Jan To" hymn.
• Evolution of the Name: Discusses the possible origins of the name "Junagadh," including "Jirnadurg" (Sanskrit for old fort) and "Yavan Durg" (Greek fort), and the theory of its evolution from "Yavan Durg" to "Jen Durg" to "Junagadh."
• Dynastic Rule: Covers the rule of various dynasties, including the Mauryas, Kshatraps, Guptas, Chudasamas, Gujarat Sultans, Mughals, and the Babi Nawabs.
• The Junagadh Accession: Details the crucial events of 1947-48 when the Nawab of Junagadh attempted to accede to Pakistan, the public's resistance, and the subsequent integration of Junagadh into India, with a significant role played by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and Shri Shamaldas Gandhi.
• Architectural Heritage: Describes important structures like the Uparkot fort, the Adi Chadi Vav (stepwell), Navghan Kuvo, mosques, makbaras, and gardens, many of which date back to the Mughal period and the Babi dynasty.
• Geographical and Natural Beauty: Mentions the scenic beauty of Junagadh, particularly its proximity to Girnar mountain, and compares it favorably to other hill stations like Idar and Champaner.

The book concludes by emphasizing Junagadh's unique place in Indian history, having a continuous, detailed, and clear historical record for over two and a half millennia, serving as a center for various religious and cultural traditions throughout its long existence.