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Nederlands (nl-NL) Given the vastness and variety of certain countries, like India which is a subcontinent in its own right, curating travel videos by region becomes a necessity for focused exploration. Below is a list of videos about Bihar, a northeastern state of India, created from photos taken during three distinct journeys: Hola Mohalla 2018 in Punjab and Himachal Pradesh, across Rajasthan and Varanasi, and exploring Buddhist India in Sikkim, Bihar, and West Bengal. A click on the globe will reveal the entire list of our videos on India.
Bihar, India • Mahabodhi temple in Bodhgaya
Bihar, India • Gurdwara Patna Sahib, one of the five main gurdwaras in India
Bihar, India • the ruins of India's oldest university at Nalanda
Bihar: A Timeless Journey Through India's Heartland
Nestled in the northeastern expanse of the Indian subcontinent, Bihar stands as a living testament to epochs past while simultaneously pulsating with the rhythms of modern progress. This article delves into the multifaceted aspects of Bihar, tracing its historical roots, geographical significance, economic contours, demographic mosaic, religious tapestry, and cultural and tourist attractions.
History
Pre-Independence
Bihar, cradle to some of India's earliest republics, has been a stage for significant historical events. This region witnessed the rise and fall of formidable dynasties, notably the Maurya and Gupta empires, which profoundly influenced not just India but the entire world through their patronage of the arts, sciences, and religion. Emperor Ashoka the Great, whose reign is often regarded as a golden era of peace and development, left an indelible mark on Bihar and beyond with the spread of Buddhism.
Post-Independence
The independence of India in 1947 marked a watershed for Bihar. The ensuing partition and independence led to significant administrative and socio-economic changes. Bihar faced challenges like territorial reorganization, including the separation of Jharkhand in 2000, which resulted in the loss of significant mineral resources and affected its economic trajectory.
Geography
Spanning approximately 94,163 km², Bihar shares its borders with Nepal to the north and is flanked by the Indian states of Uttar Pradesh to the west, Jharkhand to the south, and West Bengal to the east. Its diverse geography, from the fertile plains of the Ganges to mountainous regions, plays a crucial role in agriculture, dominating the state's economy.
Economy
Bihar's economy is primarily agrarian, with rice, wheat, and lentils as its main crops. Despite its agricultural significance, Bihar remains one of India's least developed states, modestly contributing to the national GDP. However, it has shown signs of accelerated economic growth recently, thanks to investments in infrastructure and industry.
Population
Bihar is a melting pot of ethnic and cultural communities, housing a population that surpasses 100 million inhabitants, accounting for about 8% of India's total population. This diversity is reflected in the languages, traditions, and
cultural practices throughout the state.
Religion
Religion plays a central role in the lives of Biharis, with a rich heritage of Hinduism and Buddhism. Bihar is renowned for Bodhgaya, where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment, and for Rajgir and Nalanda, ancient centers of Buddhist and Jain learning, showcasing the spiritual depth and religious harmony prevalent in the state.
Main Cultural and Tourist Attractions
Bihar is rich in historical and cultural sites, such as the ancient ruins of Nalanda University, the Mahabodhi Temple Complex in Bodhgaya, and the Ashokan Edicts in Patna. The Sonepur Cattle Fair and the Chhath Puja festival are major cultural events that celebrate Bihar's rich traditions and identity.
Conclusion
Bihar, with its illustrious past and vibrant present, is a region that continues to fascinate with its legacy and potential. Despite economic and social challenges, its significance in the cultural and historical fabric of India remains undiminished, making it a compelling narrative of resilience, diversity, and heritage.
