Main Baijnath Shrine – The Katyuri Dynasty
Katyuri Dynasty | Briefly About Katyuri Dynasty
After the rule of Kunind and Kushans in Uttarakhand, the Kartikeyapur dynasty emerged, which is also known as the Katyuri dynasty in the history of Uttarakhand.
This story is of the time when India’s glorious king Harsh died. At that time many small states separated and started declaring themselves independent.
After the demise of King Harsh, an atmosphere of anarchy was created everywhere and a similar situation was seen in Uttarakhand also.
But at that time this atmosphere of anarchy was ended by the rulers of the Katyuri dynasty in Uttarakhand.
The Katyuri Dynasty was a medieval ruling dynasty that originated in the Kumaon region of present-day Uttarakhand, India.
When did the Katyuri Dynasty come to prominence?
The dynasty rose to prominence around the 7th century CE and ruled over parts of the western Himalayan region for several centuries.
What are the Katyuri dynasty rulers known for?
The Katyuri Dynasty was known for its strong military, administrative, and cultural influence in the region.
They established their capital at Baijnath (present-day Bageshwar) and later shifted it to Katyur (present-day Katyuri) in the Kumaon region. The dynasty derived its name from the place Katyur.
Under the rulers of the Katyuri dynasty, the region witnessed significant advancements in various fields, including architecture, art, literature, and trade.
They contributed to the development of temples, forts, and other architectural structures that still stand as a testament to their legacy.
The Katyuri Dynasty had a mix of Hindu and Buddhist influences. They patronized both Hindu and Buddhist religious institutions and promoted the spread of these religions in the region.
The Katyuri rulers were also known for their support of scholars, poets, and artists, which led to a flourishing cultural environment.
Who founded the Katyuri dynasty?
The Katyuri dynasty was of a branch of Kunindas origin and was founded by Vashudev Katyuri.
Originally, from Joshimath, during their reign they dominated lands of varying extents from the ‘Katyur’ (modern day Baijnath) valley in Kumaon, between the 7th and 11th centuries AD, and established their capital, at Baijnath in Bageshwar district, which was then known as Kartikeyapura and lies in the centre of ‘Katyur’ valley.
Brahmadev mandi in Kanchanpur District of Nepal was established by Katyuri King Brahma Deo.
Who overthrew the Katyuri Dynasty?
The dynasty declined in the 12th century due to various factors, including invasions by foreign powers. They were eventually overthrown by the Chand Dynasty in the 13th century.
What was the impact of the Katyuri dynasty?
Nevertheless, the Katyuri Dynasty left a lasting impact on the Kumaon region, and their contributions to art, architecture, and culture are still celebrated and appreciated today.