Rule of the Suryavanshi Dynasty in Chamba Kingdom
In the heart of the Himalayas, nestled between the Pir-Panjal and Dhauladhar mountain ranges, lies a kingdom shrouded in mystery - Gadrahan. According to tradition, this kingdom was established in the 6th century, but historical records and credible sources offer little evidence to support this claim. The search for information about Gadrahan and its ruler, Meru Varman, around AD 700, has led scholars to unrelated topics such as the history of coca leaf chewing, political debates, financial news, and scientific discoveries in Antarctica.
Despite the lack of concrete historical evidence, the legend of Gadrahan persists, particularly in the context of the idol of Vaikuntha. This deity, approximately ten feet in height, is unique in India and is housed in the Mani Mahesh Kailash lake, a sacred site that attracts a large number of pilgrims. The idol is said to have been presented by a Tibetan king, Bhot Dev, to the king of Kangra, and later given to Raja Sahilla Varman, a powerful ruler, according to tradition.
The Gaddi people, who inhabit the Gadrahan kingdom, are known for their sturdiness, good health, and a language that bears a close relationship to Sanskrit. The rulers of the new kingdom, following the disintegration of the Gupta Empire, are believed to have utilized the qualities of the Gaddi people, organizing them into troops for expanding the kingdom's territory.
One such kingdom, with its capital on the upland of the Buddhal River, a tributary of the Ravi River, is said to have been established. However, the exact details of this kingdom's history remain elusive, making it a fascinating subject for further research.
In the heart of this enigmatic kingdom, Raja Sahilla Varman built temples to Vishnu, Shiva, Krishna, Rama, and Devi, many of which are considered of national importance. The most notable among these is the temple in Kangra, built to accommodate the huge idol of Vaikuntha. Today, the legacy of Gadrahan and its rulers continues to captivate historians and pilgrims alike, offering a glimpse into a past that remains largely unknown.
The lifestyle of the Gaddi people, who inhabit the mysterious kingdom of Gadrahan, thrives in harmony with the rugged terrain, reflecting their resilience and good health. Travelers seeking to unravel the past of this enigmatic kingdom often find themselves drawn to the sacred Mani Mahesh Kailash lake, where the unique idol of Vaikuntha, a symbol of their rich cultural heritage, stands tall.
