Himachal traces Pandavas` footprint

In a bid to bring the rich historical root of Himachal Pradesh out of oblivion and to promote tourism, the state government is conducting a survey to find evidence of places linked with visit of the Pandavas.

"Survey is underway to find evidence for these historical references of visit of the Pandavas to the state during their 14 years of banishment to forest and on other occasions," said Prem Sharma, Director, Department of Language and Culture.

The objective behind the exercise is to trace the rich historical root of Himachal Pradesh popularly called "Dev bhoomi" (land of lords) and promote tourism by developing these sites, Sharma said.

"Historical texts say that during their banishment the Pandavas had stayed at Hatkoti which falls in the modern day's Shimla district," he said adding that there is a temple of Hidimba, wife of mighty Bhima, at Kullu.

There is also reference of Arjuna travelling to 'Kinner' country which is considered to be the modern day Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh, the director said.

To corroborate all these historical references with evidence, researchers of the state Language and Culture department are conducting the detailed survey expected to be completed in a year, Sharma said.

He said memorials would be built at the places where evidences are found about the links with Pandavas.

According to the epic Mahabharta, Pandavas -- a group of five brothers namely Yudhisthir, Arjuna, Bhima, Nakul and Sehdev -- were forced to live in jungle for 14 years.

source : http://www.zeenews.com/