The
history of Baroda begins somewhere in mid-Pleistocene period.
(The Stone Age).The early man lived on the bank of river Mahi
about 20 km north east of Baroda. The people were killing
the animals with crude stone tools for their food. There are
evidences of the existence of the presence of human being
at a number of sites on the bank of river Mahi. However no
evidences are found around Baroda because of the absence of
gravels and cobbles on the river vishwamitri.
Around 1000 A.D.a small township developed
on the mound on the west coast of river vishwamitri, known
as Ankotakka (present day Akota) Ankotakka had a strategic
position, right on the ancient trade route between Gujarat
and Malva. Hence the township flourished into a commercial
centre.
River viswamitri have been prone to seasonal
flesh floods. Hence in around 600 A.D. the inhabitants moved
to the east coast of river on the elevated portion located
on the present kothi area.
Several names were given to this city during
its long history, like Chandravati, Virvati, Vadpatra, Vatptra
Baroda and Vadodara.Guptas, Rajputs Vallabhis Moguls and Gaekawadas
ruled the city.
The modern development of the city started
during the era of Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekawad III (1875-1935
A.D.)He was a great administrator and reformer of his times.
He initiated socio - economic development and encouraged model
textile, chemical and tile factories. He founded famous Maharaja
Sayajirao University. He made primary education compulsory
and opened libraries at several places. He developed nice
garden (Kamati garden or Sayaji garden), Museum and modern
system of water supply from Ajwa lake.
MODERN BARODA
Baroda is coming up as important cosmopolitan city
in the map of India. People from almost all the state of India
come here for either service, business or to establish an
industry. Hence a cosmopolitan culture is reflected in the
celebration of all festivals.
There are number of malls and multiplex theatres are coming
up in the city which attract the young ones as well as middle
class families and is responsible for their change in the
life style. There are big show rooms of Jewelers and cloth
merchants. There are number of educational institutes apart
from the M.S.University.
Baroda has bright future in the coming years.
|
