About Naneghat

Naneghat Pass, also known as Nanaghat or Nana Ghat, is a historic mountain pass situated in the Western Ghats, connecting the Konkan coast with the Deccan Plateau. Located approximately 120 kilometers (75 miles) north of Pune and around 165 kilometers (103 miles) east of Mumbai, Maharashtra, Naneghat was once a vital trade route in ancient times. This pass is famous for its cave that houses Sanskrit inscriptions in Brahmi script, dating back to the 2nd and 1st centuries BCE, and attributed to the Satavahana dynasty.

The inscriptions found at Naneghat are significant for their historical and linguistic value, linking Hindu deities and Vedic rituals, and showcasing some of the oldest numerals known to man. These ancient symbols resemble the modern numerals seen in both Nagari and Hindu-Arabic script, marking a milestone in the development of numerical notation.

Location of Naneghat Pass

Naneghat Pass stretches across the Western Ghats, providing a scenic hiking trail that leads to the Nanaghat Plateau. The pass served as a crucial trade route, linking the coastal seaports of Sopara, Kalyan, and Thana with the inland economic centers such as Nasik, Paithan, and Ter. This pass was historically known for its toll collection booths, which charged traders crossing the hills. The cave at the top of the pass contains a series of inscriptions, some of which are long and others short, revealing important historical information.

Accessible by road via Highways 60 and 61, the pass is located about 120 kilometers (75 miles) from Pune and 165 kilometers (103 miles) from Mumbai. The nearby Kalyan station, located on the Central Line, is the closest railway station to reach Naneghat. Historical Significance

Naneghat Pass has played an essential role in the history of the region, especially during the reign of the Satavahanas (circa 200 BCE – 190 CE). It was one of the main routes linking coastal communities with those in the Deccan Plateau. The name "Naneghat" literally means "coin pass" as it was used as a toll booth, collecting taxes from merchants traversing the pass.

The discovery of the Naneghat Cave inscriptions by William Sykes in 1828 sparked scholarly interest in the site. Initially mistaking the cave for a Buddhist temple, Sykes made early sketches of the inscriptions, which were later studied and deciphered by experts. It was James Prinsep’s breakthrough in deciphering the Brahmi script that led to the translation of these inscriptions, revealing their Hindu origins, rather than Buddhist as Sykes had believed. The Naneghat inscriptions are considered some of the oldest Sanskrit inscriptions, shedding light on the culture and language of the time.

Inscriptions and the Satavahana Dynasty

The inscriptions at Naneghat are attributed to a queen of the Satavahana dynasty, possibly Nayanika or Naganika, the wife of King Satakarni. The inscription narrates her life with her husband and her role in sponsoring the cave after his death. It also mentions their son ascending the throne, linking the dynasty’s history with the inscriptions. The records have been dated to the 1st century BCE, and they hold invaluable information about the region's history, culture, and religion.

The inscriptions at Naneghat mention several Vedic deities, including Dharma, Indra, Chandra, and Surya, reflecting the religious practices of the Satavahana dynasty. They also mention figures like Samkarsana (Balarama) and Vasudeva (Krishna), indicating the prevalence of the Bhagavata tradition within the dynasty.

Naneghat Cave and Its Role

The Naneghat caves were likely an ancient rest stop for travelers journeying through the Western Ghats. This cave is a vital archaeological site, housing detailed inscriptions that provide insight into ancient trade practices, religious customs, and the Satavahana dynasty’s legacy.

Nearby Attractions

Naneghat is also close to other significant ancient sites, including the Lenyadri Group of Theravada Buddhist caves, located around 35 kilometers (22 miles) away. Additionally, about 200 mounds, dating from the 3rd century BCE to the 3rd century CE, can be found near Junnar, offering further archaeological interest for visitors.