The story of the name ‘Tehri’ – know the historical reason behind it”
The story of the name ‘Tehri’ – know the historical reason behind it”
“What is the real identity of the name ‘Tehri’?”
“To the roots of the word Tehri – the truth related to history and folklore”
“What is the reality behind the name Tehri”
The origin of the name Tehri Garhwal is linked to historical, religious and linguistic contexts. The name “Tehri” is actually believed to be derived from the word “Trihari”, which means – the abductor of three types of sins.
The word “Trihari” is of Sanskrit origin. (In which: Tri = three and Hari = abductor) It is believed that Tehri is the place where three rivers – Bhagirathi, Bhilangana, and Ghritganga – meet. This confluence was considered to be the destroyer of three types of sins (mental, verbal, physical) – hence it was called “Trihari”, which in colloquial speech became “Tehri”.
History of Tehri:
There used to be a small village at the confluence of Bhagirathi and Bhilangana rivers, which is currently known as Tehri and whose mythological name was Ganesh Prayag. It is said that Lord Brahma performed penance at this place before the creation of the universe. Garh means fort or stronghold. This place is believed to remove sins committed by mind, word and action. Tehri is a district and also the name of a city in the state of Uttarakhand.
The history of Tehri Garhwal begins from the 18th century, before this the region was part of the Garhwal princely state, after the invasion of the Gorkhas in 1803, King Sudarshan Shah defeated the Gorkhas in 1815 with the help of the British and established the Tehri princely state. He shifted the capital of Garhwal state from Srinagar to Tehri in 1815 and made this city the capital of his state. And since then this city came to be known as Tehri Garhwal.
Tourist City Tehri:
Tehri is an ancient place and is one of the holiest cities in India. The diverse nature of Hinduism has attracted foreign tourists from all over the world. Tehri Dam is the main attraction of Tehri Garhwal. One of the main reasons for the fame of Tehri is also its breathtaking natural beauty. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks, lush green valleys, Tehri presents a view that leaves visitors awestruck. The calm waters of Tehri Lake, formed by damming the Bhagirathi River, provide the perfect backdrop for a variety of water sports and recreational activities.
Adventure lovers come to Tehri to enjoy thrilling experiences like kayaking, jet skiing and parasailing on the clear waters of the lake. Whether it is watching the spectacular sunrise over the mountains or admiring the star-studded sky at night, Tehri offers a soul-stirring experience.
Description by Authors:
The book “Garhwal ka Itihaas” written by Pandit Harikrishna Raturi is considered to be the first authentic history of Garhwal. He had done an in-depth study of old records and documents to write this book.
“Uttarakhand ka Itihaas” – Author: Dr. Shivprasad Dabral ‘Shiv’s book is considered to be the main reference of the historical, cultural and linguistic aspects of the Garhwal region. In this, the origin of the name Tehri is said to be from “Trihari”.
“Garhwal Gatha” – Author: Bachchan Singh also describes the historical aspect of the name Tehri along with folklore and cultural heritage.
“Uttarakhand ka Sanskritik Itihaas” – Author: Dr. Ajay Singh Rawat’s book looks at the name Tehri from a religious perspective, especially from the concept of the confluence of three holy rivers.
“Uttarakhand ka Naveen Itihaas” – Author: Prof. Yashwant Singh Kathoch’s book contains a detailed description of the name of Tehri, Tehri principality, and geographical features.
The name Tehri is not just a geographical identity but a result of religious faith, linguistic changes and cultural beliefs.
