Punjab Facts. List of 100 Amazing Things to know with FAQs

List of 100 Amazing Things to know with FAQs

History:

1. Indus Valley Civilization: Punjab was a major center of the Indus Valley Civilization (c. 3300–1300 BCE), with cities like Harappa located here.
2. Vedic Age: Punjab was known as “Sapta Sindhu” (the land of seven rivers) during the Vedic age.
3. Mahabharata Reference: Punjab is believed to be the site of the great battle of Kurukshetra in the Mahabharata.
4. Alexander the Great: In 326 BCE, Alexander the Great invaded Punjab and fought the Battle of Hydaspes against King Porus.
5. Maurya Dynasty: After Alexander, the region came under the Mauryan Empire under Chandragupta Maurya.
6. Sikhism’s Birth: Sikhism was founded in Punjab by Shri Guru Nanak Dev Ji in the late 15th century.
7. Sikh Gurus: The ten Sikh Gurus played an instrumental role in shaping the religious and social structure of Punjab.
8. Mughal Empire: Punjab came under Mughal rule during the early 16th century under Emperor Babur.
9. Guru Arjan’s Martyrdom: The 5th Sikh Guru, Shri Guru Arjan Ji, was executed by Mughal Emperor Jahangir in 1606, marking a pivotal moment in Sikh history.
10. Guru Gobind Singh: The 10th Sikh Guru, Shri Guru Gobind Singh Ji, founded the Khalsa in 1699, a militarized Sikh community to resist Mughal oppression.
11. Ranjit Singh: Maharaja Ranjit Singh established the Sikh Empire in 1799, ruling Punjab until his death in 1839.
12. Anglo-Sikh Wars: The British East India Company fought two wars with the Sikh Empire, eventually annexing Punjab in 1849.
13. Jallianwala Bagh Massacre: In 1919, British forces killed hundreds of Indians during a peaceful protest in Amritsar, sparking widespread outrage.
14. Partition of India: In 1947, Punjab was divided between India and Pakistan during partition, leading to one of the largest mass migrations in history.
15. Green Revolution: Punjab was at the forefront of India’s Green Revolution in the 1960s, which transformed the agricultural sector.
16. Punjab Insurgency: From the late 1970s to the 1990s, Punjab experienced insurgency related to the Khalistan separatist movement.
17. Kabaddi Popularity: Kabaddi, a traditional contact sport, is hugely popular in Punjab. The state hosts several high-profile Kabaddi tournaments, and many Punjabi players represent India in international competitions. Punjab also has its own Kabaddi World Cup, further promoting the sport globally.
18. Sikh Diaspora: Post-1947, Punjab saw a significant migration of Sikhs to countries like the UK, Canada, and the US.
19. Bhagat Singh: The iconic freedom fighter Bhagat Singh was born in Punjab and played a pivotal role in India’s independence movement.
20. Panj Piare: The “Five Beloved Ones” initiated by Guru Gobind Singh during the founding of the Khalsa were key figures in Sikh history.
21. First Punjabi Printing Press: The first Punjabi printing press was set up in the 19th century, helping spread Sikh scriptures.

Economy:

22. Agriculture: Punjab is known as the “Granary of India” and produces a significant portion of the country’s wheat, rice, and sugarcane.
23. Green Revolution: Punjab played a central role in the Green Revolution, making India self-sufficient in food production during the 1960s and 1970s.
24. Canal System: Punjab has one of the most extensive canal systems in India, aiding its highly productive agricultural sector.
25. Livestock Farming: Punjab has a strong livestock farming industry, contributing significantly to India’s milk production.
26. Industrial Sector: Punjab is home to a variety of industries, including textiles, manufacturing, and chemicals, though agriculture remains dominant.
27. Ludhiana: The city of Ludhiana is known as the “Manchester of India” due to its thriving textile and garment industries.
28. Amritsar’s Economy: Amritsar is a major economic hub, with industries including tourism, agriculture, and textiles. The Golden Temple attracts millions of visitors annually.
29. Punjab’s GDP: Punjab is one of the wealthier states in India, with a relatively high GDP per capita, driven by agriculture and small-scale industries.
30. Fertile Land: Punjab’s fertile soil, irrigated by rivers like the Sutlej and Beas, makes it an agricultural powerhouse.
31. Small-Scale Industries: Punjab has a thriving small-scale industrial sector, producing items like bicycles, hand tools, and sports equipment.
32. Export of Basmati Rice: Punjab is one of the largest exporters of high-quality Basmati rice to international markets.
33. Punjabi Diaspora Remittances: The large Punjabi diaspora, particularly in Canada, the UK, and the US, sends significant remittances back to the state.
34. Transport and Logistics: Punjab is strategically located, making it an important center for transport and logistics, particularly for goods moving between India and Pakistan.
35. Chandigarh: As the shared capital of Punjab and Haryana, Chandigarh is a key administrative and economic center for both states.
36. Unemployment and Migration: Despite its agricultural strength, Punjab has faced rising unemployment in recent years, leading to an increase in migration, particularly to foreign countries.
37. Food Processing: Punjab has a growing food processing industry, leveraging its agricultural produce for domestic and international markets.
38. Tourism: Tourism, especially religious tourism related to Sikhism, is a key contributor to Punjab’s economy.
39. Pharmaceuticals: The state has a developing pharmaceutical industry, particularly in cities like Mohali and Baddi (near the Punjab-Himachal border).
40. Automotive Components: Punjab has a growing automotive component manufacturing industry, with companies in Ludhiana and Jalandhar supplying parts to major vehicle manufacturers.

Culture:

41. Punjabi Language: Punjabi is the official language of the state and is widely spoken by people of all religious backgrounds.
42. Bhangra and Giddha: Bhangra (for men) and Giddha (for women) are popular folk dances in Punjab, performed during festivals and celebrations.
43. Golden Temple: The Golden Temple in Amritsar is the holiest shrine in Sikhism and a symbol of Punjab’s cultural and religious identity.
44. Punjabi Music: Punjabi music, including folk and modern genres like Punjabi pop and bhangra, is known for its upbeat rhythms and has global influence.
45. Langar Tradition: The Sikh tradition of Langar, or free community meals, originated in Punjab and is a key element of Sikh culture.
46. Festivals: Major festivals in Punjab include Vaisakhi, which marks the Sikh New Year, Lohri, a harvest festival, and Diwali, celebrated across religious communities.
47. Punjabi Cuisine: Known for its rich, flavorful dishes like butter chicken, tandoori roti, makki di roti, and sarson da saag, Punjabi cuisine is globally renowned.
48. Patiala Peg: The term “Patiala Peg” refers to a large measure of whiskey, reflecting Punjab’s cultural association with celebration and hospitality.
49. Phulkari: Punjab is famous for Phulkari, a traditional embroidery style used in shawls, dupattas, and other garments.
50. Punjabi Cinema: Pollywood, the Punjabi film industry, has seen significant growth in recent years, producing films that resonate with the Punjabi diaspora worldwide.

Here are 50 facts about Punjab’s politics, agriculture, music, movies, education, food, and writers:

Politics:

1. Punjab Legislative Assembly: Punjab has a unicameral legislature with 117 members elected for five-year terms.
2. SAD (Shiromani Akali Dal): One of the oldest regional parties in India, established in 1920, advocating for Sikh rights and regional autonomy.
3. Congress Party: The Indian National Congress has been a dominant force in Punjab politics, with leaders like Captain Amarinder Singh serving as Chief Minister multiple times.
4. AAP: The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) gained prominence in Punjab, winning the 2022 state elections under Bhagwant Mann’s leadership.
5. Bhagwant Mann: Bhagwant Mann became the Chief Minister of Punjab in 2022, representing AAP, bringing a major political shift in the state.
6. Green Revolution Policies: The government’s promotion of high-yield seeds and fertilizers in the 1960s turned Punjab into the “Granary of India.”
7. Farmers’ Protests (2020-2021): Punjab was the epicenter of protests against the Indian government’s farm laws, with widespread participation from farmers.
8. Punjab Governor: The Governor is the constitutional head of the state, and Banwarilal Purohit is the current Governor as of 2024.
9. Khalistan Movement: In the 1980s, Punjab witnessed separatist demands for a Sikh homeland, leading to violent insurgency and counter-insurgency operations.
10. Kabaddi Popularity: Kabaddi, a traditional contact sport, is hugely popular in Punjab. The state hosts several high-profile Kabaddi tournaments, and many Punjabi players represent India in international competitions. Punjab also has its own Kabaddi World Cup, further promoting the sport globally.
11. Punjab and Haryana: The two states were separated in 1966, with Chandigarh serving as the shared capital.
12. Zail Singh: Giani Zail Singh, a prominent leader from Punjab, became the 7th President of India in 1982.
13. Agrarian Issues: Agrarian policies are a major electoral issue in Punjab, with demands for better MSP (Minimum Support Price) and loan waivers.
14. Dalit Politics: Punjab has the highest percentage of Scheduled Castes in India, influencing the state’s political landscape.
15. Punjab Panchayati Raj: Village councils (Panchayats) play a key role in local governance in Punjab, especially in rural areas.
16. Anti-Drug Campaigns: Punjab has faced a significant drug problem, which has become a major political issue, leading to anti-drug campaigns by various governments.
17. Political Alliances: SAD often forms alliances with the BJP in national elections, though they parted ways over the farm laws in 2020.
18. 2022 Election Landslide: AAP’s landslide victory in the 2022 elections disrupted traditional power structures dominated by Congress and SAD.
19. Amritsar Seat: The Amritsar parliamentary seat is one of the most prestigious in Punjab politics, once held by leaders like Navjot Singh Sidhu.
20. Agricultural Subsidies: Political parties in Punjab heavily rely on promises of subsidies for water, electricity, and agricultural inputs during elections.

Agriculture:

21. Granary of India: Punjab produces around 18-20% of India’s wheat and 10-12% of its rice, making it one of the most agriculturally productive states.
22. Green Revolution: Punjab was at the heart of India’s Green Revolution in the 1960s, which revolutionized farming practices with modern technologies.
23. Water Usage: Punjab’s agriculture is heavily dependent on groundwater, leading to concerns about over-extraction and depleting water tables.
24. Wheat and Rice: Wheat and rice are the primary crops grown in Punjab, with these two accounting for a significant portion of the state’s agricultural output.
25. Sugarcane: Sugarcane is another important crop in Punjab, contributing to its agricultural diversity.
26. Dairy Farming: Punjab is known for its strong dairy farming tradition, and it contributes significantly to India’s milk production.
27. Subsidies for Farmers: The Punjab government offers various subsidies on seeds, fertilizers, and electricity to support farmers.
28. Kinnow: Punjab is one of the largest producers of Kinnow (a citrus fruit), especially in the districts of Abohar and Fazilka.
29. Landholdings: Punjab’s farmers generally have smaller landholdings, leading to the adoption of mechanized farming to increase productivity.
30. Agricultural Export: Punjab exports a significant amount of its agricultural produce, especially Basmati rice, to international markets.

Music:

31. Bhangra: Punjab’s most famous cultural export, Bhangra, is a lively and energetic folk dance and music genre that celebrates the harvest season.
32. Gurdas Maan: Gurdas Maan, one of Punjab’s most renowned singers, is credited with popularizing Punjabi folk music worldwide.
33. Punjabi Pop: Modern Punjabi music has seen the rise of pop artists like Diljit Dosanjh, who blend traditional Punjabi beats with contemporary music styles.
34. Sufi Music: Punjab is known for its Sufi music, with legendary singers like Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan and Abida Parveen having deep roots in the region’s musical traditions.
35. Dhol: The Dhol, a double-sided drum, is central to Punjabi music, especially in folk and Bhangra performances.
36. Punjabi Music Industry: The Punjabi music industry, also known as Pollywood, has seen tremendous growth, with its influence extending to Bollywood and beyond.
37. Traditional Instruments: Instruments like Tumbi, Algoza, and Chimta are integral to Punjab’s traditional music.
38. Punjabi Rap: Punjabi music has embraced modern genres, including rap, with artists like Bohemia and Sidhu Moosewala leading the scene.

Movies:

39. Pollywood: Punjab’s film industry, known as Pollywood, produces numerous films each year, with popular actors like Amrinder Gill and Neeru Bajwa contributing to its growth.
40. War Films: Punjabi cinema often highlights themes of valor and sacrifice, with films like “Chaar Sahibzaade” and “Punjab 1984” depicting historical events.
41. Diljit Dosanjh: Diljit Dosanjh, a successful actor and singer, has crossed over to Bollywood with films like “Udta Punjab” and “Good Newwz.”
42. Jatt and Juliet: Films like “Jatt and Juliet” have gained massive popularity for their humor and romantic plots, showcasing the lighter side of Punjabi cinema.
43. Religious Films: Punjabi films often focus on Sikh religious history, with films like “Sajjan Singh Rangroot” portraying stories of Sikh warriors and their legacy.

Education:

44. Punjab University (PU): One of India’s oldest universities, Punjab University in Chandigarh, was established in 1882 and remains a prestigious institution.
45. GNDU: Guru Nanak Dev University in Amritsar is a leading educational institution, named after the first Sikh Guru.
46. Literacy Rate: As of 2021, Punjab has a literacy rate of around 76%, with a strong emphasis on primary and secondary education.
47. Agricultural Universities: Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) in Ludhiana has played a crucial role in agricultural research and development, particularly during the Green Revolution.
48. IT and Engineering Colleges: Punjab has a growing number of engineering and IT colleges, producing professionals who contribute to both the national and global workforce.

Food:

49. Makki di Roti & Sarson da Saag: These are staple dishes in Punjabi cuisine, particularly popular during the winter season.
50. Amritsari Kulcha: Amritsar is famous for its Kulcha, a type of stuffed bread, usually served with chole (chickpeas).

FAQs

1. How many districts are there in Punjab?
   • Punjab has 23 districts1.
2. What is the largest district in Punjab by area?
   • Firozpur is the largest district in Punjab, covering an area of 5,334 square kilometers2.
3. What is the smallest district in Punjab by area?
   • Kapurthala is the smallest district in Punjab, covering an area of 1,646 square kilometers2.
4. Which district in Punjab has the highest population?
   • Ludhiana is the most populous district in Punjab, with a population of approximately 3,498,739 people2.
5. Which district in Punjab has the lowest population?
   • Barnala is the least populous district in Punjab, with a population of approximately 595,527 people2.
6. What is the capital city of Punjab?
   • The capital city of Punjab is Chandigarh, which is a union territory and also serves as the capital of Haryana.
7. Which district is known for its agricultural productivity?
   • Ludhiana is known for its high agricultural productivity, especially in wheat and rice cultivation.
8. Which district is famous for its historical significance?
   • Amritsar is famous for its historical significance, being home to the Golden Temple and other important Sikh heritage sites.
9. Which district is known for its industrial development?
   • Ludhiana is also known for its industrial development, with a strong presence of textile and manufacturing industries.
10. Which district is known for its educational institutions?
    • Jalandhar is known for its educational institutions, including several universities and colleges.
11. Which district is known for its cultural heritage?
    • Patiala is known for its rich cultural heritage, including the Patiala Gharana of classical music and the Patiala peg of liquor.
12. Which district is known for its sports facilities?
    • Mohali (Sahibzada Ajit Singh Nagar) is known for its sports facilities, including the Mohali International Cricket Stadium.
13. Which district is known for its medical facilities?
    • Ludhiana is known for its medical facilities, including several large hospitals and medical colleges.
14. Which district is known for its tourism attractions?
    • Amritsar is a major tourist destination, attracting visitors to the Golden Temple, the Wagah Border, and other historical sites.
15. Which district is known for its wildlife sanctuaries?
    • Hoshiarpur is known for its wildlife sanctuaries, including the Kandi Wildlife Sanctuary.
16. Which district is known for its IT industry?
    • Mohali (Sahibzada Ajit Singh Nagar) is known for its growing IT industry, with several IT parks and companies.
17. Which district is known for its horticulture?
    • Pathankot is known for its horticulture, especially the cultivation of fruits like apples and pears.
18. Which district is known for its traditional crafts?
    • Ludhiana is known for its traditional crafts, including handloom weaving and embroidery.
19. Which district is known for its religious significance?
    • Amritsar is known for its religious significance, being a major pilgrimage site for Sikhs.
20. Which district is known for its renewable energy projects?
    • Bathinda is known for its renewable energy projects, including solar and wind energy farms.

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