From the Vindhyas to the Krushna river basin, the traditional extent of the ‘Maharashtra’ region has been a topic of interest for historians and scholars alike. The name Maharashtra for this region was not clearly defined for much of earlier history, despite earliest references to Maharashtra existing in the 3rd century Eran inscription and Xuanxang’s account of Mo-ho-laa-cha.
However, multiple sources tell us about its extent, including the Kamasutra, which describes the geographical extent of Maharashtra between the Narmada River in the north and the Karnataka country in the south. This account was later countered by Kannada personalities who claimed that Karnataka extended up to the Godavari basin, but their claims were disputed by other accounts.
Context: The Leela Charitra
The Leela Charitra, a text compiled by Mhaimbhat in 1278 CE, contains a geographical directive given by Chakradhar Swami, the sect’s founder, during his travels in the mid-13th century. The directive explicitly describes the geographical boundary of Maharashtra as being between the Vindhyas and the Krushna River.
Chakradhar Swami forbade his followers from leaving this Maharashtra Parimandala because he believed their spiritual duty and linguistic medium (Marathi) belonged exclusively to the people living between the Vindhyas and the Krishna River. This was the case even before the Muslim and Maratha power came back in the region.
Response: Uncovering the Truth
Prof. H. N. Nene’s standard multi-volume print of the Leela Charitra accurately laid out the decoded prose of Mhaimbhat, while Dr. V. B. Kolte extracted the standalone philosophical and directional aphorisms spoken by Chakradhar Swami from the Leela Charitra. This quote is classified under the Pradesha-Vachana (statements regarding regional territory) in the Sutrapatha.
It is essential to note that these historical accounts provide valuable insights into the geographical extent of Maharashtra and its cultural significance. By understanding the region’s history, we can better appreciate its rich cultural heritage and the people who have shaped it.
As we continue to explore the history of Maharashtra, it is crucial to rely on credible sources and avoid fabrications. By doing so, we can ensure that our understanding of the region’s past is accurate and informative.
Going forward, it is essential to continue researching and documenting the history of Maharashtra, including its geographical extent and cultural significance. By doing so, we can create a comprehensive and accurate understanding of the region’s past and its people.