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History of Muzaffarpur

From being a part of one of the glorious civilizations in ancient Indian history to becoming one of the important economic hubs of modern Bihar, Muzaffarpur historical account is indeed enthralling and engrossing. The city gained its name from its founder Md. Muzaffar Khan, an Amil (Revenue Officer). Below is complete description of its history. Right from it’s glorious ancient history to modern day history.

Ancient History of Muzaffarpur

History of Muzaffarpur

Muzaffarpur during ancient period was integral part of Vaishali (then known as Vajjin Republic).Vishali during 4th and 5th century B.C. covered present day Muzaffarpur and was a force to reckon with. Apart from few kings and clans that ruled this glorious empire, there is not much information on it. But what is definitely known is that some of the greatest historical personalities like Gautam Buddha and Lord Mahavira had deep association with this great empire. Besides Vaishali Empire, some of the other ancient rulers of Muzaffarpur were Pala Empire, Chedi kings of Central India and Sena dynasty.

Medieval History of Muzaffarpur

If Hindu and Buddhist empires ruled Muzaffarpur during ancient period, then its medieval period was completely dominated by many Muslim dynasties and finally by British Empire. Actually by the turn of medieval era most of the Indian sub continent itself had come under Muslim rule, who were later overpowered by Britishers. Among Muslim rulers most dominant ones were Lodi dynasty, Hussain Shah (Nawab of Bengal) and Mughal dynasty. And amongst these Mughal dynasty ruled for longest period. In fact Mughals were last Muslim rulers of entire Northern India – including of course of Muzaffarpur region too.Mughal’s power and control over Northern India began to fade after losing Battle of Buxer to Britishers in 1764. Battle of Buxer was fought near Bauxer city, which is nearly 200 kms away from city of Muzaffarpur.

Modern History of Muzaffarpur

By turn of 18th century Muzaffarpur and also pretty much rest of India had completely come under British rule. British Era was pretty eventful for Muzaffarpur region. Many local freedom movements that were sparked off immediately after start of 20th century are still remembered proudly and fondly by people of Muzaffarpur. But British era will be most remembered for one singular event: naming of this region as Muzaffarpur. Surprisingly this region never had a name of its own until British named it Muzaffarpur, after Afghan Md. Muzaffar Khan; who was a revenue officer during 19th century British period. However, there is not much historical account or information about Muzaffar Khan. Another worth mentioning event during British period was Mahatma Gandhi’s visit to Muzaffarpur region. Gandhi’s historical visit defiantly helped in arousing latent feeling for freedom in the region.

Modern history of Muzaffarpur can be said to have began when Bihar state was formed immediately after India’s independence. It was but obvious that Muzaffarpur would be an important part of modern day Bihar state. And truly indeed Muzaffarpur not only gained prominence in post independence era, but its significance grew even further. In fact today main city of Muzaffarpur is considered as second most important city of Bihar after Patna. Besides, it is also considered as capital of entire North Bihar region.

However, modern day Muzaffarpur district is comparatively smaller in area size. Since in 1972 many parts of Muzaffarpur District were carved out to form two independent districts, namely Sitamarhi and Vaishali districts. But bifurcation as such didn’t have any major adverse effect on Muzaffarpur district.


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