The
antiquity of this region can be traced to approximately
the 3rd century BC,
which is when the Maharastri language, a Prakrit
corruption of Sanskrit from which the term 'Maharashtra'
is derived, was then in use. Marathi, which evolved
from Maharastri-Prakrit, has been the lingua
franca
of the people of this area from the 10th century
onwards.
And, in the course of time, the term 'Maharashtra' was used to describe a region
which consisted of Aparanta, Vidarbha, Mulak, Ashmak and Kuntal. The tribal communities
of Nags, Munds and Bhils inhabited this area, also known as Dandakaranya, in
ancient times.
They were joined by the Aryas, the Shakas and the Huns, who came from the North,
as well as by foreigners, who arrived by sea. The Dravidians from the South colonised
the land, joining a group which collectively became known as
'Marathas'. |
