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Punjab is known for its unique culture and tradition. Being the ancient centre of the settlement in the Indian Subcontinent, Punjab is the place where the first civilization of South Asia flourished around 2500 BC. Due to its geographical location, Punjab has been plundered and ruled by many invaders from South Asia. After the fall of Mughal Empire, Sikh influence emerged and dominated the region. The state is famous for Punjabi cuisine, agriculture, festivals, gurudwaras, Punjabi folk dances, etc. Before being enchanted by this place. let us know some interesting facts about the land of five rivers:
Named After Five Rivers
The word Punjab is made from two Persian words; ‘Panj’ means five and ‘aab’ means water. Five major rivers flow through the state: Sutlej, Beas, Ravi, Chenab and Jhelum.
One State: Two Countries
Before the partition of India in 1947, Punjab was a large state in British India. After Partition, Punjab divided into two regions; Indian Punjab and Pakistani Punjab.
Cradle of Civilization
In the Indian and Pakistani Punjab, the Indus Valley Civilization flourished which is considered one of the ancient civilizations. The civilization flourished around the Indus river system.
Gave Birth to Two New States
The modern Indian Punjab came into existence on 31 October 1966 when Himachal Pradesh and Haryana were carved out.
Sikhism Was Founded Here
In the late 15th century, Guru Nanak Dev laid the foundation of Sikhism in Punjab. Punjab is the largest state of the Sikh population.
Centre of the Sikh Empire
In 1799, under the leadership of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, the Sikh Empire was formed. It was a secular empire based in Punjab. It lasted until 1849.
The area of Punjab is 50,362 sq. km. It is the 20th largest state in India as per the area. Its population is about 27 million; 16th largest state as per population in the country.
Place of The Holiest Sikh Shrine
In the city of Amritsar, the Golden Temple or Shri Harmandir Sahib is located which is considered the holiest and most important pilgrimage site of Sikhism. The temple was designed by the fifth Guru Arjan Dev. The Gold was installed above the Gurudwara by Raja Ranjit Singh.
The capital of Punjab and Haryana is Chandigarh which is a Union territory. There is also one common High Court for both states which is known as Punjab and Haryana High Court, situated in the capital city of Chandigarh.
Prominent Personalities
The soil of Punjab has given birth to many legends in every field. In Punjab, people have the enthusiasm to be a singer, actor, athlete, etc. Some legends are Gurdas Maan (Singer), Sidhu Moose Wala (Singer), Akshay Kumar (Actor), Balbir Singh Sr. (Hockey Player), Kapil Sharma (Comedian), Udham Singh (Hockey Player), Zail Singh (7th President of India) and many more
