Sambodhi 2007 Vol 31

Author(s): J B Shah
Publisher: L D Indology Ahmedabad

Page 30

GAURI MAHULIKAR
SAMBODHI
kingdom of the Kurus stretched from Sarasvati to Gañgā, according to the Mahabharata. 10 It was divided into three parts: 1) Kuru-jangala, wild and woody region 2) Kuru proper on the banks of Sarasvati and 3) Kurukshetra, which is situated at the south of Sarasvati and north of Drsadvatī. This holy land is also known as 'Samantapancaka' or 'Uttara Vedih' of Brahmäll
According to Rahul Samkrityana, Purus were the people even before the Rgvedic age. 12 As Bharatas were closely associated with Bharati, Purus were associated with Parusni. In fact, Bharata and Kusika were the branches of Puru.13 Purus are mentioned along with Yadus, Turvasus, Anus and Druhyus mRV.L. 108.8. In RV.1.1.9. there is a mention of Pancajana'. Corresponding to these five people. Sayana's explaination that they are four varnas, with an addition of Nişāda', the indigenous barbarious tribe, is doubtful, because, during Vedic times, caste distinctions were not in vogue.
Druhyus are etymologically the 'haters'. Bhrgu was their priest. Gandharas are stated to be the descendents of Druhyus. (Matsya Purana 48.6, Vayu P, 99.9.) The Pancajanas, comprising of Ami, Druhyu, Puru, Turvasu and Yadu, with some other kings like Bheda, Aja, Sigru etc. tribes, attacked Sudas of Bharata clan and there ensued a great battle between them RV. has recorded this historical event in a picturesque manner in three hymns; VII. 18, VII.33 and VII.83. This 'Dasārajñayuddha' is important from sociological point of view as well. Sudas was a king of north Pancala region, an Aryan and Alia, descendent of Pururavas. It was part of his conquests westward into Punjab, that he fought against the federation often kings. This, in a way, refutes the Aryan invasion theory, that states that Aryans entered India from north-west direction and proceeded eastwards, Here we find the reversal of that.
Yadu and Turvasu, normally come in pair. Kanva was their priest. Turvasus are etymologically explained as, those who grab others' things quickly. (TT CÍTETIT 44cterft afg sfa)14 Yadus are called so because they too, try to grab others' belongings. This is derived from yat’15 It is easily noticed that "Pancajanas' are portrayed as enemies, who attacked Sudas of Bharata clan. Indra and Varuna helped Sudas at the behest of Vasistha. Among the federated allies, there are some non-Aryan names too. (RV.VII. 18,19) The important point is that all types of tribes and people dwelt on the banks of Sarasvati and her tributaries and thus helped the enrichment of Indian civilization.